New Jersey-based Sprout Foods joined Partnership for a Healthier America as part of its ongoing commitment to tackle America’s obesity crisis by shaping nutritious food preferences among infants and toddlers.

“Historically, our society has tried—and largely failed—to treat and fix obesity and its related health issues,” said Rick Klauser, CEO, Sprout Foods. “Now, we know better. We can help prevent the problem from occurring in the first place by introducing babies to a variety of vegetables and plant-based foods within the first year of life.”

The problem is twofold. First, studies show that 27 percent of children between 1 and 3 years of age do not eat a single serving of vegetables on a given day. Of those who do, French Fries are the most common vegetable consumed. Second, infants are born with a natural predisposition toward sweeter foods. If given in to, overconsumption of sweet foods can put children on a path to a lifetime of unhealthy eating habits and a range of serious health issues, including obesity, diabetes and heart disease. 

“We can help young children modify their palates and preferences for sweets at an early age,” said Sharon Palmer, MSFS, RDN and nutrition advisor to Sprout. “By exposing children to healthier foods, parents have the power to set their children in a healthier direction by developing palates that welcome vegetables, plants and other savory food, while reducing the preference for sweeter ones.

“Teaming up with Partnership for a Healthier America provides us with an opportunity to have an even greater impact on the nutrition and eating habits of infants, toddlers and ultimately adults,” said Klauser. “We commit to ensure at least 50 percent of Sprout pouch purees have a vegetable as the first ingredient and will continue to ensure that 100 percent of our pouches contain no added sugars.”