VIDEO: AAP questions marketing of toddler ‘formulas’

Key takeaways:

• In a clinical report, the AAP found drinks marketed as toddler “formulas” to be nutritionally lacking.
• The beverages are often more expensive than cow’s milk.

WASHINGTON — Drinks marketed as toddler “formulas” are nutritionally lacking and generally unnecessary for most children, according to a clinical report presented at the AAP National Conference & Exhibition.

The AAP Committee on Nutrition authored the report, which questions the advertising of “formulas” meant for toddlers and preschoolers.

Unlike infant formulas, drinks marketed as toddler “formulas” are not regulated by the FDA.

In this video, George J. Fuchs III, MD, FAAP, vice chair of clinical affairs for the department of pediatrics at the University of Kentucky College of Medicine and a member of the Committee on Nutrition, discusses the new report.

According to Fuchs, parents should not consider these beverages as a replacement for a balanced diet, noting that they offer fewer to no benefits and are more expensive than cow’s milk.

References:

American Academy of Pediatrics reviews toddler ‘formulas,’ questions marketing of drinks. https://www.eurekalert.org/news-releases/1004609/. Published Oct. 20, 2023. Accessed Oct. 20, 2023.

Fuchs GJ, et al. Pediatrics. 2023;doi:10.1542/peds.2023-064050.