Commercial baby food: Consumption, sugar content and labelling practices in Uganda

Abstract

There has been a worldwide increase in the consumption of processed foods in low- and middle-income countries. Processed foods are now easily available and accessible with the increased presence of transnational corporations, urbanisation and improving economies—all essential drivers of the nutritional transition. Ultra-processed foods and beverages (UPFB) have been identified as a significant contributor to total dietary energy and, in specific settings, the biggest source of sugar for infants and young children. High consumption of free sugars in early childhood is associated with poor health outcomes, including early childhood caries, overweight/obesity and an increased risk of developing other non-communicable diseases (NCDs).