A new study published on February 11, 2026, has found that over 70% of baby foods sold in the United States are ultraprocessed and contain a high number of additives, raising significant health concerns for infants and toddlers. The research, conducted by The George Institute for Global Health, analyzed 651 products and revealed that additives are the most common ingredient type, with implications for long-term eating habits and disease risk.
The study, published in the peer-reviewed journal Nutrients, used data from the FoodSwitch database to assess baby food products from top U.S. grocery chains. Employing the NOVA classification system, researchers identified that 71% of these products are ultraprocessed foods (UPFs), which are industrially made with highly processed ingredients and additives designed for convenience but often lacking essential nutrients. Dr. Elizabeth Dunford, the lead author, highlighted that infancy is a critical period for shaping lifelong eating preferences, and early exposure to such foods can lead to unhealthy habits.
Additives were found in 71% of all baby food products, with flavor enhancers, thickeners, emulsifiers, and colors being the most prevalent. Over 105 unique additive ingredients were identified, including synthetic dyes and preservatives. Emerging research links many of these additives to inflammation, disruptions in the gut microbiome, and behavioral issues in children, which is particularly concerning given that babies’ digestive systems are not fully developed to handle such substances.
Nutritionally, ultraprocessed baby foods contained twice as much sugar as their non-UPF counterparts, with added sugars exclusive to UPFs. Sodium levels were also higher, and these products were more calorie-dense due to refined ingredients. Snack-size packages were the worst offenders, with 94% classified as ultraprocessed, and pouches, which have seen a 900% sales increase since 2010, often contributed to high sugar intake.
The findings come amid growing evidence linking UPF consumption to increased risks of cardiovascular disease, obesity, and type 2 diabetes. Experts like Jane Houlihan of Healthy Babies, Bright Futures warn that early exposure to ultraprocessed foods can set the stage for lifelong unhealthy eating patterns and related health issues, emphasizing the need for industry accountability.
Regulatory oversight for baby foods in the U.S. is limited, with additives often declared “Generally Recognized as Safe” without rigorous FDA review. The American Academy of Pediatrics and advocacy groups have called for urgent reforms, including clearer labeling and stricter safety assessments to protect children’s health from potential harms.
Parents are advised to scrutinize ingredient lists, opt for whole foods, and prepare homemade meals when possible to reduce exposure to harmful additives. Dr. Dunford suggests that until regulatory improvements are made, consumer vigilance is key to ensuring healthier choices for babies, helping to foster better nutritional outcomes.
This study underscores a pressing public health issue, highlighting the need for policy changes and industry action to safeguard the well-being of the youngest consumers. As awareness grows, it may drive demand for cleaner, less processed baby food options in the market.
