Ensuring quality and safety of commercially produced complementary foods
A guide for manfacturers
Highlights
Every child has the right to safe, healthy, and nutritious food. Yet in Southeast Asia, the rapid growth in sales of commercially produced complementary foods (CPCF)—such as cereals, pouches, and purees—has outpaced regulatory oversight, with many products falling short of global standards for quality and nutrition.
This new guideline, developed under the COMMIT Initiative led by UNICEF East Asia and the Pacific Regional office (EAPRO) and partners, supports manufacturers in putting children’s health first. It translates global and regional guidance into clear, practical steps for improving the safety, nutritional value, and labelling of CPCF.
Designed for small and medium enterprises, the guide offers actionable recommendations on:
- Selecting safe and appropriate ingredients
- Meeting nutrient composition requirements
- Ensuring food safety and hygiene
- Providing clear and accurate product labels
Applying best practices throughout the production process
By aligning with this guidance, manufacturers can help fulfil children’s right to adequate nutrition, support families with trusted options, and contribute to national efforts to improve child nutrition and development.
