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Kerala Child Rights Panel Seeks Sugar Removal From Anganwadi Mix
A child rights panel in Kerala is worried about sugar in a food mix given to young children.
The mix is called Amrutham Nutri Mix and is distributed through anganwadis.
The panel said too much sugar might harm children’s health over time.
It asked officials to think about removing sugar completely.
It also suggested considering a small amount of jaggery instead.
Officials must decide how much mix each child should receive based on age.
The packets should explain the nutrients and the recommended amount.
Workers and families should receive guidance on preparing and using the mix safely.
The Kerala State Commission for Protection of Child Rights asked the Women and Child Development Department to consider removing sugar from Amrutham Nutri Mix.
The commission suggested exploring the use of a small quantity of jaggery instead.
It ordered age-based guidelines for the quantity of Nutri Mix supplied under the Take Home Ration scheme.
The commission called for nutritional information and recommended serving quantities to be printed on product labels.
It also directed awareness programmes for anganwadi workers and beneficiaries on preparation methods and healthy habits.
- Who
- The Kerala State Commission for Protection of Child Rights, following a petition by K Sahla, and the Women and Child Development Department.
- What
- The commission sought consideration of removing sugar from Amrutham Nutri Mix and issued directions on quantities, labeling, and awareness programmes.
- Where
- Kerala, including anganwadis and the petitioner’s district of Palakkad.
- When
- The report was dated September 3; the order was issued by commission member P Shajesh Bhaskar.
- Why
- The commission said added sugar could affect children’s health, while the petition alleged the mix contained 20 per cent sugar and conflicted with World Health Organization guidelines.
Key facts
- Product
- Amrutham Nutri Mix
- Distribution channel
- Anganwadis under the Integrated Child Development Services scheme
- Target age cited in petition
- Children aged six months to three years
- Sugar allegation
- The petitioner alleged that the powder contained 20 per cent sugar.
- Suggested alternative
- A small quantity of jaggery
- Quantity guidance
- Age-based serving guidelines under the Take Home Ration scheme
- Label requirements
- Nutritional information and recommended quantities
- Awareness channels
- Direct programmes, Poshan Tracker, and WhatsApp groups
Sources
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