Experts have criticised a couple for creating a range of paleo-diet baby food, warning that these foods could impact childhood development.
Paleo dieter Serenity Heegel co-founded Serenity Kids after being unable to find baby food that she considered nutritious enough for her child.
“I just couldn’t believe that nothing existed that would be something I would want to feed my own baby,” Heegel told Food Navigator.
The line of baby launched this month and offers three flavours: uncured bacon with organic kale and butternut squash; beef with kale and sweet potato; and chicken with peas and carrots. All of their products are gluten- and soy-free.
Experts have criticised the products though, with concerns over the impact that employing the diet could have on children.
“A varied diet is essential for children as it enables them to receive a variety of nutrients to support growth physically and mentally,” Rhiannon Lambert, a registered nutritionist told The Independent.
“Ultimately, balanced meals not omitting a whole food group is the best approach for any one but especially when looking at child development. Baby food should contain a mix of the food groups and giving up one completely can be detrimental to their health and prospects.”
“There’s no research that shows a child needs a high-protein diet,” Stephanie Di Figlia-Peck, a registered dietitian at Northwell Health, also told Moneyish.
“A child who’s growing and developing needs a balance of carbohydrates that come from fruits, vegetables and grains; protein and healthy fat. There needs to be a balance so you get the correct nutrient profile,” she added.
Children’s Paleo diets have come under fire in the past, as in 2015 Australian publishers were denied the right to release a Paleo cookbook for parents. The publication was blocked following doctors’ concerns over the amount of vitamin A contained in the recipes.
Despite the controversy surrounded Serenity Kids’ products, their sales are booming with Heegel revealing that the company has sold 1,800 pouches during their online pre-sale alone.
