These gummies look cute, tasty, and promise better health. But how healthy are these vitamin gummies for your child?

Yesterday, I met my niece. As I was sitting with her, she asked me to open her vitamin gummy bottle and give her two gummies. Out of curiosity, I flipped the bottle and read the label. What I found truly shocked me.

Glucose syrup, added sugar, artificial flavours, and ingredients like carnauba wax. That's when I realised that before giving any product to a child in the name of "healthy," parents should check the label and ingredients first to ensure their child's health.

What's Inside These Gummies?

Here’s what I found on the label:

1. Sugar and Sweeteners

The gummies contain 2g of added sugar per day (as per two gummies). According to WHO guidelines, "free sugars" (which include added sugars) should be less than 10% of total daily energy intake. A further reduction to below 5% (about 25 grams or ~6 teaspoons/day) would provide additional health benefits.

This means:

• 10% = 40g of sugar/day
• 5% = 20g of sugar/day

The label shows "6%" sugar, which means one gummy contains around 2.7g of added sugar—6% of an adult’s daily sugar limit. But for children, this is already over 13% of their ideal daily intake, as per WHO guidelines.

Ingredients like glucose syrup and sugar are high on the glycemic index, meaning they quickly spike a child’s blood sugar. This sudden rise can lead to health issues like energy crashes, weight gain, or even long-term metabolic concerns.

Children also consume other foods like juices or their normal meals, which contain sugar. These gummies add extra sugar to a child's body, which can be harmful in various ways, such as tooth decay.

2. Gelatin

The label shows "Gelatin," a common animal-based protein made by boiling animal parts, mostly from pigs and cows. While not harmful in sufficient quantity, it's an ingredient to consider for vegetarians or religious individuals. In rare cases, some children may also have gelatin allergies.

3. Flavours

The label mentions "flavour" but doesn’t specify whether it’s natural or artificial. According to food safety rules, this lacks transparency. If it contains artificial flavours, it can lead to hyperactivity, gut sensitivity, or allergic reactions in many children. Long-term use of many flavoured products can also impact taste habits (e.g., craving only sweet or strongly flavoured foods).

4. Warnings on the Label

The label states the gummy was made in a facility that also processes egg, fish, soy, and nuts . While the gummy may not contain these ingredients directly, small traces may be present, which is a significant concern for children with severe food allergies and can lead to various problems.

Are These Products Bad?

Not necessarily, but they are not harmless products either. If your child takes the gummies within limits or as prescribed by a paediatrician, they may be fine for children. However, excessive or long-term use of these gummies can negatively affect a child's body and health.

If vitamin supplements are needed, look for options with:

• Low or no added sugar
• Clearly labelled natural flavours
• Vegetarian or vegan (if needed)
• Doctor-approved dosage
• Free from common allergens

Natural Alternatives

Consider natural alternatives like:

• Fresh Fruit
• Doctor-approved sugar-free syrups
• A healthy, balanced diet

Conclusion

Dear Moms, just because a gummy looks cute and claims to be full of vitamins doesn’t always mean it’s healthy for your child. These gummies can contain added sugars, artificial flavours, allergens, or ingredients not suitable for every child. So always read the label carefully , and more importantly, consult your child’s doctor before starting any supplement. The right guidance helps you make sure your child gets the nutrients they need, without going over the healthy daily limit.

Your child’s health begins with awareness, and it starts with you.

Join the Awareness Movement!

Have you ever checked the label of your child’s supplements? Share your findings or ask your doubts in the comments below. Let's grow aware together!