A Profile of Flavourings in Commercial Complementary Foods in South Africa

Research into the sugar content of commercial complementary foods (CCFs) for infants and young children (IYC) has been extensive, but little attention has been given to flavourings in these products. This study aimed to create a profile of the prevalence and type of flavourings in CCFs for IYC in South Africa (SA). Data were collected on CCFs indicated as suitable for introduction from ages 6 to 23 months at 26 physical stores in the Western Cape, and the online stores of nine major SA retailers between June 2022 and February 2023. Data were collected by photographing product labels and contacting the manufacturers for further information. The results showed that 36.2% of CCFs contained flavourings, with 75.9% of these containing one and the remainder up to three flavourings. More than half (52.4%) of the flavouring-containing products were marketed as suitable for introduction from 6+ months, and almost half (48.6%) of the baby drinks, all indicated as suitable for introduction from 6+ months, contained flavourings. Flavourings were present in 84.2% of dry baby foods (cereals/porridges). The flavourings in CCFs were primarily of sweet flavours (> 80%) with vanilla being the most prevalent flavour. Moreover, only 51% of CCFs complied with all SA labelling regulations relating to flavourings and 78.3% violated regulations relating to non-addition claims. The prevalence of sweet CCFs with added flavourings raises concerns about its potential negative impact on children's taste preferences, dietary habits, and consequent long-term health outcomes. Re-evaluating the use of flavourings in CCFs and strengthening the enforcement of labelling regulations in SA is imperative.