Sweet Deception: The Hidden Dangers in Your Baby's Formula

Story at-a-glance Most infant formulas in the U.S. contain added sugars instead of natural lactose, with formula-fed infants consuming up to 60 grams of added sugars daily (equivalent to two soft drinks) Out of 73 formulas examined in 2022, researchers found only five contained mainly naturally occurring lactose, and those are no longer available in the U.S. market Added sugars in formula may increase risks of obesity, Type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease and preference for sweet foods, while lacking the health benefits of lactose found in breast milk Unlike adult food products, U.S. regulations don't require added sugars to be reported on infant formula nutrition labels, leaving parents unaware of sugar content Researchers recommend requiring formula companies to produce products containing only naturally occurring lactose and removing societal barriers to breastfeeding