Nestle is under scrutiny again. The Swiss food giant admitted that over 60 percent of its food and drinks don’t meet the recognized definition of health.
Their 2021 executive presentation showed that only 37 percent of their products including pet and medical nutrition fall under the healthy category. They were given a rating above 3.5 under the Australian health star rating system. “We have made significant improvements to our products. .But, our portfolio still underperforms against external definitions of health. In a landscape where regulatory pressure and consumer demands are skyrocketing,” stated Nestle in their presentation.
Which Nestle products are under the radar?
Out of all the food that is not up to standards, some food and drinks stood out. This includes Maggi, Ice creams and candies, energy drinks, etc. Moreover, it was noted that 90 percent of the company’s beverages except pure coffee extract, did not cut close. What’s scary is that 99 percent of its confectionaries did not make the cut! Alternatively, the water and dairy products fared better. 60 percent of dairy products and 82 percent of waters were above the line.
According to sources, Nestle admitted that some of their products will never be hungry, no matter how much they renovate. It looks like the past seven years following the Maggi fiasco have been a learning experience for the company. Nestle has reduced the sugar and sodium levels in its food by 14-15 percent!
“Nestlé India believes that nutrition is a fundamental need and the food industry has a vital role to play in enabling healthier lives. Driven by our purpose, we are constantly striving to increase the nutrient profile of our products, as well as innovate with new and nutritious offerings,” said Nestle’s spokesperson for India.
The food conglomerate also said that it will work on a company-wide project and update its health and nutrition standards. This will ensure that they cross the threshold.
