Bill banning sugar on baby food submitted to the House of Representatives

By Billy Begas

Caloocan City Rep. Mary Mitzi Cajayon-Uy has introduced a measure to ban baby food manufacturers from adding sugar to their products.

In the proposed No Added Sugar on Baby Food Act (House Bill 10169), Cajayon noted the concerns of the World Health Organization (WHO), which indicates that baby foods on the market generally contain too much sugar.

“WHO emphasizes that good child nutrition is fundamental to a child’s continued health from birth to adulthood. “Proper nutrition in the first three years of life is therefore particularly important because of its role in reducing morbidity and mortality, reducing the risk of chronic diseases throughout the lifespan and promoting regular mental and physical development,” Cajayon said in the explanation. of the measure.

Under the measure, no person or entity may manufacture, sell, import or commercially distribute baby food containing added sugar.

“This bill seeks to ensure good nutrition and optimal growth and development for our Filipino children by banning added sugars in baby food,” Lady Solon added.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) may issue a recall, ban, or seizure order against the sale or distribution of products that violate the measure.

Violators will face a fine ranging from P300,000 to P500,000 or imprisonment for one to five years, or both, at the discretion of the court.

If the offender is a corporate entity, the president, secretary, treasurer and such other officers or persons responsible for the violation shall be criminally liable.