The Consumers’ Institute of New Zealand has published a study that accuses breakfast cereals marketed at children of containing too much sugar and lacking nutritional value.


Of the 26 cereals tested by the consumer watchdog, over half contained at least one-third sugar and were so low in nutrients that the Institute concluded it could not recommend any to consumers.


David Russell, Consumers’ Institute chief executive, said that breakfast cereal manufacturers were adding to NZ’s childhood obesity problem and tooth decay.


“It’s a combination of high sugar content marketed specifically to children and the end result is going to be bad teeth and fatter kids,” Russell said.


However, Hubbards Foods marketing manager Julia van de Coolwijk told the Southland Times that consumers demanded high sugar content. Two years ago, the company reduced the sugar content of its Bugs ‘n’ Mud cereal by 25%, but sales dropped and the company was forced to increase sugar levels again, Coolwijk said. The cereal now contains more than 40% sugar.

How well do you really know your competitors?

Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.

Company Profile – free sample

Thank you!

Your download email will arrive shortly

Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample

We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form

By GlobalData
Visit our Privacy Policy for more information about our services, how we may use, process and share your personal data, including information of your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.