US Study Finds Many Packaged Foods for Young Children Fall Short of WHO Nutritional Standards

Packaged foods marketed for infants and young children in the U.S. frequently fail to meet nutritional recommendations, according to a new study from the University of Texas at Austin. Researchers analyzed 2,783 products from 21 grocery stores in Texas, finding that a significant majority, 81%, were classified as ultra-processed.

The study, which excluded infant formula, drinks, and purees, focused on other packaged items advertised for children aged 6 to 36 months. Using the NOVA classification system, which assesses the degree of processing and the presence of additives, the team discovered that 49% of the analyzed products did not meet at least one World Health Organization (WHO) guideline for infant and young child feeding.

Specific nutritional concerns were highlighted: 17% of products exceeded recommended sugar levels, 25% had too much sodium, 11% were high in fat, and 12% had excessive caloric content. Examples included fruit pouches and oat bars with high sugar content, ready-made pasta dishes and meat snacks with high sodium and fat, and cheese puffs with very high energy values. Peanut butter puffs also exceeded sodium, fat, and calorie norms.

"Many parents may assume that products sold in infant and toddler food aisles must meet certain nutritional standards. Our findings, however, show that half of them do not," said study co-author Erin A. Hudson. The researchers emphasized the importance of parents scrutinizing nutrition labels, as early dietary habits can shape long-term preferences and health outcomes. Previous research has linked ultra-processed foods to poorer health, independent of their specific nutrient content.

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Many parents may assume that products sold in infant and toddler food aisles must meet certain nutritional standards. Our findings, however, show that half of them do not.