THE internet is a source of relevant information but it can also be a repository of fake news. For example, misinformation and disinformation about children’s nutrition are widespread on the internet.
Misinformation is usually shared due to a lack of knowledge or in error, while disinformation is incorrect information shared to deliberately mislead for whatever purpose.
To address any misinformation and disinformation and address persistent concerns over micronutrient deficiencies among Filipino children, Nestlé Philippines is bringing its nutrition advocacy to communities via a new educational caravan aimed at helping parents make informed feeding decisions for their babies.
‘Parents today have access to more information than ever before. They have Google, social media, and parenting forums. They’re very thoughtful about the decisions they make for their children. But let’s be honest, it can also be a lot to keep up with. That’s why we believe parents deserve trusted guidance and support along the way because helping children receive the right nutrition is something we all care about,’ said Arlene Tan-Bantoto, Nestlé Nutrition and Health Business executive officer, during the media launch for the event.
The caravan comes after findings that many Filipino infants fail to receive adequate nutrition during the critical first 1,000 days of life, which is from pregnancy until a child’s second birthday. This is when the brain, immune system and body experience rapid development.
Also present during the launch were Nestlé executives and nutrition experts, including Dr. Imelda Agdeppa of the National Academy of Science and Technology; Dr. Katrina Florcruz-Dacanay, pediatrician of the Diliman Doctors Hospital and The Medical City; Nikki Constantino, vice president for Nestlé Baby Food and Mainstream Milk; and Aleli Magtibay, nutritionist, Medical and Scientific Affairs for Nestlé.
Agdeppa showed findings from a local clinical study involving infants aged six months and older. The study found that children who received fortified complementary food alongside nutrition education for caregivers achieved better nutrient intake and growth outcomes than those given regular home meals alone.
‘Many Filipino infants do not receive nutritinally adequate diets. While most babies begin complementary feeding at six months, only a small percentage achieve the minimum dietary diversity and acceptable diet. The challenge is no longer simply introducing complementary foods on time but ensuring they are diverse and nutrient-dense,’ said Agdeppa.
Florcruz-Dacanay said weight has nothing to do with a child being malnourished or not.
‘When we hear the term nutrition gap, we usually imagine a very thin child. But that’s not always the case. Even children who appear healthy or chubby can have deficiencies if their diets consist mostly of carbohydrates like rice, noodles, bread or crackers while lacking protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals.’
The pediatrician said introducing complementary food to babies at around six months old should include timely, age-appropriate, varied and nutrient-dense offerings.
Constantino said Cerelac products are specifically formulated to help fill nutrient gaps during complementary feeding.
Cerelac’s infant cereals come in a variety of flavors, including Mixed Fruits and Soya, Mixed Veggies, Rice and Soya, and Wheat Banana and Milk for babies aged 6 months and above. The meals for babies 8 months and up include Rice and Chicken and Rice and Veggies options. Cerelac also offers variants with No Added Table Sugar.
‘I can confidently say that Cerelac is one of the most nutrient-dense complementary foods that parents can give their babies. One serving already provides about half of a baby’s daily iron requirement, along with 20 vitamins and minerals, DHA, probiotics and all-natural ingredients without preservatives,’ said Constantino.
The ‘Tambalang Big Sustansya sa Barangay’ caravan will bring nutrition education sessions, practical feeding guidance and product demonstrations to selected communities beginning this month.
Families can stay updated on the caravan’s schedule, venues and activities through Cerelac Philippines’ official Facebook page and other social media channels.