Sprout Foods removes acid preservatives from entire product portfolio

Organic food company Sprout Foods has devised a new sourcing and manufacturing ingredient strategy that eliminates the need for acid preservatives like citric acid, ascorbic acid or lemon juice concentrate.

The company will implement this change across its entire product portfolio including 45 products for babies, toddlers and young children.

These preservatives are said to be harmful for infants as they can cause acid reflux and rashes in babies.

Sprout vice-president of marketing Geoff Stella said: "Many pediatricians recommend against feeding acid preservatives to infants because they can upset the baby’s stomach, cause diaper rash on the bottom or the mouth, and potentially harm tooth enamel. But acidic additives are required in conventional hot fill manufacturing processes to prevent the growth of bacteria and produce a shelf-stable product.

"Our use of acid-free ingredients, cooking technique and associated packaging changes have required an extra investment, but enabled us to prevent acid-related issues like stomach upset that every parent wants to avoid."

Sprout says its portfolio is completely organic and free of genetically modified ingredients, preservatives, artificial colours and flavours, and other additives.

Some of Sprout’s products are Pear Oatmeal with Maple & Carrot, Creamy Vegetables with Chicken, and Strawberry, Pear & Butternut Squash with Amaranth, all of which are contained in flexible squeeze packaging for easy portability and self-feeding.

"Parents don’t want to cut corners when it comes to their kids, and that’s why we don’t. Our products are the closest thing to homemade that you can get on a grocery shelf," added Stella.