Childhood is an important stage that requires age-specific nutrition.
According to Food and Nutrition Bulletin 2017, Vol. 38(3) 405 - South African children between the ages of one and five years do not get adequate vital nutrients in their daily diet. Some of the critical nutrient gaps identified for young children are deficiencies in Vitamin A, Zinc and Iron. Infact between 44 and 62% of South African children under five do not get enough Iron, 58% have an insufficient intake of Vitamin A and 55% of this age group’s intake of zinc is less than adequate.
These sub optimal nutrient intakes affect our childrens ability to grow and develop optimally, it affects the health of their immune systems which all contributes to poorer adult outcomes in terms of cognitive development and overall health and well being.
To respond to some of these nutritional challenges, NESTLÉ NIDO 3+ today announced its new and improved recipe, tailor-made for the nutritional needs of little ones aged three to five years.
‘’ Children aged three to five years require a nutrient dense diet with foods that are essential for future, social and congnitive well being. The new and improved NESTLÉ NIDO® 3+ recipe contains optimal levels of Vitamin A, Zinc and Iron which are the most prevalent mirconutrient deficiencies in this age group in South Africa. NESTLÉ NIDO 3+ contains Lactobacillus Protectus (L.rhamnosus) that supports children’s immune systems, specially the respiratory defences. It is also a source of Omega 3 Fatty Acids in the form of added DHA that contributes to normal brain function and learning," shares Belinda Vernon, Business Executive Officer, Nestlé Nutrition East and Southern Africa Region (ESAR).
‘’Childhood moments bring so much joy to parents, caregivers and families. This is when the young ones discover the world around them and make sense of it all. We encourage all South African parents and caregivers to continue supporting the growth and development of their children by choosing age appropriate nutritional products for them," added Vernon.
Today’s virtual launch was attended by various media and influential caregivers nationwide and was hosted by well-known social media personality, Olwethu Leshabane. Amongst the panelists, were Bontle Sebesho, registered dietitian as well as Abigail Friedman, an occupational therapist.
NESTLÉ NIDO 3+ is not a breastmilk substitute and is formulated to meet the changing nutrition needs of healthy children older than 3 years.
For more information on NESTLÉ NIDO 3+ visit www.nidokids.co.za or follow us on Facebook @NIDO South Africa. You can also follow the conversation on social media by using the hashtag #NIDO3Plus #ChildhoodMoments.
Ends.
Zweli Mnisi, Corporate Spokesperson
Nestlé East and Southern Africa Region
Tel: 082 312 8940
Email : [email protected]
About Nestlé
Nestlé is the world’s largest food and beverage company. It is present in 187 countries around the world, and its 291,000 employees are committed to Nestlé’s purpose of unlocking the power of food to enhance quality for everyone, today and for generations to come. Nestlé offers a wide portfolio of products and services for people and their pets throughout their lives. Its more than 2,000 brands range from global icons like Nescafé or Nespresso to local favorites like Ninho *. Company performance is driven by its Nutrition, Health and Wellness strategy. Nestlé is based in the Swiss town of Vevey where it was founded more than 150 years ago.