Keralam child rights panel seeks removal of sugar from anganwadi nutri mix

The Keralam State Commission for Protection of Child Rights has urged the removal of sugar from the Amrutham Nutri Mix provided to children through anganwadi centers. The commission argues that sugar in the nutri mix could negatively impact children’s health and contribute to the development of lifestyle diseases at an early age.

Instead of sugar, the commission recommends using a small amount of jaggery. The commission also directs the Women and Child Development Department to establish a high-level committee to assess the nutritional composition of products given to children, and to create guidelines on the right quantity to be supplied based on a child’s age.

The department must then issue instructions to officials about the appropriate quantity of Nutri Mix for children according to age, as per central government guidelines. The commission also suggests that nutritional information and recommended serving sizes should be prominently displayed on product labels. Furthermore, the commission wants the department to conduct awareness programs for anganwadi workers and beneficiaries on the correct use of Amrutham Nutri Mix and other supplements, proper preparation methods, and the importance of healthy habits.

These awareness programs should be conducted both directly and through platforms like Poshan Tracker and WhatsApp groups. The commission’s order was issued in response to a petition filed by K Sahla of Palakkad district, who claimed that the Amrutham powder contains 20% sugar, which exceeds WHO guidelines, and could harm children aged six months to three years.