Nestlé Cerelac Wheat with Milk is a popular infant cereal designed for toddlers 12 months and older. This nutritious cereal provides essential vitamins and minerals to support healthy growth and development in young children. Made with wholesome grains, it offers a convenient option for parents introducing solid foods to their little ones.
Produced in Spain, Cerelac Wheat with Milk contains iron to help support brain development and learning ability. Two servings provide 60% of the daily value of iron for toddlers. The cereal also includes Bifidobacterium lactis cultures, which may contribute to digestive health.
Parents appreciate Cerelac’s easy preparation. It can be mixed with warm water or milk to create a creamy texture suitable for young eaters. The cereal’s nutrient-dense formula makes it a helpful addition to a balanced diet for growing toddlers as they transition to more solid foods.
Product Overview
Nestlé Cerelac Wheat with Milk is a nutritious infant cereal designed for babies from 6 months onwards. It combines wheat and milk powder to create a smooth, easily digestible texture suitable for introducing solid foods.
This cereal is fortified with essential vitamins and minerals to support a baby’s growth and development. Key ingredients include wheat flour, milk powder, and a blend of nutrients like iron, vitamin C, and probiotics.
Iron plays a crucial role in cognitive development, while vitamin C aids in iron absorption. The addition of Bifidus BL probiotics aims to strengthen the child’s immune system.
Cerelac Wheat with Milk is simple to prepare. Parents can mix it with warm water to achieve the desired consistency. The product comes in a convenient package that helps maintain freshness.
This infant cereal serves as a nutrient-dense option during the complementary feeding stage. It provides approximately 60% of a baby’s daily iron requirement in just two servings, making it an efficient source of this vital mineral.
Nutritional Profile
Nestlé Cerelac Wheat with Milk offers a comprehensive blend of nutrients tailored for infant development. This cereal provides essential vitamins, minerals, and macronutrients to support healthy growth in babies from 6 months onwards.
Vitamins and Minerals
Cerelac Wheat with Milk is fortified with key micronutrients. It contains Vitamin A to support vision and immune function. Vitamin D aids in calcium absorption for strong bones. B vitamins like B1, B6, and niacin contribute to energy metabolism.
The cereal provides folic acid, crucial for cell division and growth. Iron is added to help prevent anemia. Calcium and phosphorus work together to build strong bones and teeth. Zinc supports immune function and growth.
Iodine is included for thyroid health. The formula also contains biotin, which plays a role in metabolism. Careful attention is given to sodium levels to meet infant needs without excess.
Energy and Macronutrients
A single serving of Cerelac Wheat with Milk contains approximately 70 calories. This energy-dense formula helps meet the high caloric needs of growing infants.
The macronutrient profile is balanced for infant nutrition. Carbohydrates make up about 67% of the calories, providing readily available energy. Protein accounts for 12% of calories, supporting tissue growth and repair.
Fat content is around 21% of calories. This is important for brain development and absorption of fat-soluble vitamins. The cereal offers about 8 grams of protein per serving, contributing to daily protein requirements.
Carbohydrates in the form of wheat provide the primary energy source. The milk component adds nutritional value and improves taste and texture.
Health Benefits
Nestlé Cerelac Wheat with Milk offers several nutritional advantages for infants and toddlers. This fortified cereal contains essential nutrients that support key aspects of child development.
Cognitive Development
Cerelac Wheat with Milk is enriched with iron, a crucial mineral for cognitive development in young children. Iron deficiency can lead to developmental delays, making its inclusion particularly important.
The cereal also contains omega-3 fatty acids, which play a vital role in brain function and development. These nutrients support the formation of neural connections, potentially enhancing learning and memory.
Vitamin B1 (thiamine) is another key ingredient that aids in cognitive function. It helps in the production of neurotransmitters, supporting proper brain activity and development.
Immune System Support
Cerelac Wheat with Milk includes Bifidus BL probiotics, which can help strengthen a child’s immune system. These beneficial bacteria promote a healthy gut microbiome, potentially reducing the risk of infections.
The cereal is fortified with vitamin C, an antioxidant that boosts immune function. Vitamin C helps in the production and activity of white blood cells, enhancing the body’s defense against pathogens.
Zinc, another nutrient found in Cerelac, is essential for immune system function. It aids in the development and activity of immune cells, helping to protect against various illnesses.
Special Ingredients
Nestlé Cerelac Wheat with Milk contains several key ingredients that enhance its nutritional value. These components are carefully selected to support infant growth and development.
Fortification
Cerelac Wheat with Milk is fortified with essential vitamins and minerals. Iron, in the form of ferrous fumarate, is added to support cognitive development and prevent anemia. Calcium carbonate strengthens bones and teeth.
Vitamin D3 aids calcium absorption, while vitamin B12 supports brain function and red blood cell formation. These fortifications help meet the increased nutritional needs of growing infants.
The cereal also contains skimmed milk powder, providing protein and additional calcium. Some variants include honey for natural sweetness and flavor enhancement.
Probiotics and Gut Health
Cerelac incorporates Bifidus BL, a probiotic strain that supports digestive health. Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that help maintain a healthy gut microbiome.
These friendly bacteria can aid in digestion and may help reduce the risk of gastrointestinal issues in infants. By promoting a balanced gut flora, probiotics potentially contribute to overall immune function.
The inclusion of probiotics in Cerelac aligns with current research on infant nutrition and gut health. This addition sets Cerelac apart from standard infant cereals.
Dietary Information
Nestlé Cerelac Wheat with Milk contains several key allergens and is not suitable for all dietary needs. The product’s composition and alternatives are important considerations for parents and caregivers.
Allergen Details
Cerelac Wheat with Milk contains wheat and milk, two common allergens. These ingredients make the product unsuitable for individuals with wheat or dairy allergies. The cereal is not gluten-free due to its wheat content. Parents of infants with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity should avoid this product.
The milk in Cerelac comes from cow’s milk, which may cause issues for lactose-intolerant babies. Some infants may experience digestive discomfort or allergic reactions. Always consult a pediatrician before introducing new foods, especially if there’s a family history of allergies.
Alternative Options
For babies with dietary restrictions, several alternatives exist. Soy-based infant cereals provide an option for those with milk allergies. Rice cereals offer a gluten-free choice for infants sensitive to wheat.
Some parents prefer to make homemade cereal using single-grain options like oatmeal or quinoa. These can be prepared with breast milk or formula for added nutrition. Nestle offers other Cerelac varieties without wheat or milk for babies with specific dietary needs.
It’s crucial to ensure any alternative provides adequate nutrition, especially iron, which is fortified in commercial infant cereals. Always introduce new foods gradually and monitor for any adverse reactions.
Serving Instructions
Preparing Nestlé Cerelac Wheat with Milk is simple and quick. Start by ensuring all utensils are clean and dry.
Measure 2 tablespoons (approximately 15g) of Cerelac into a small bowl.
Add 4 tablespoons of warm water or milk to the cereal. Stir until the mixture achieves a creamy consistency.
For a thinner texture, add more liquid as desired.
One serving typically consists of 15g of Cerelac mixed with 95mL of water.
Cerelac already contains milk powder, so using water is sufficient. However, using milk can enhance the flavor and nutritional content.
Always test the temperature before feeding to ensure it’s not too hot for the baby.
For older children, Cerelac can be used to create a nutritious smoothie. Mix 2 tablespoons of Cerelac with 1 cup (8 fl oz) of cold milk and add fruit for extra flavor and nutrients.
Store the unopened package in a cool, dry place. Once opened, use within 3-4 weeks for best quality.
Availability and Variants
Nestlé Cerelac Wheat with Milk is widely available in many countries. It can be found in supermarkets, grocery stores, and pharmacies.
Online delivery options have made it even more accessible. Many e-commerce platforms and online retailers offer this product for convenient home delivery.
The product is particularly popular in Middle Eastern countries. It is readily available in Saudi Arabia (KSA), Iraq, and Bahrain.
Nestlé offers several variants of Cerelac:
- Wheat with Milk (standard version)
- Multi-grain
- Rice
- Fruits
Package sizes typically include:
- 250g boxes
- 400g boxes
- 1kg boxes (in select markets)
The 14.1 oz (400g) canister is a common size in many regions. This size provides multiple servings and is convenient for regular use.
Nestlé sometimes introduces limited edition flavors or fortified versions to cater to specific markets or nutritional needs. These special variants may have limited availability in certain regions.
Preparing for Feeding
Proper preparation is crucial for safely feeding Nestlé Cerelac Wheat with Milk to infants. Attention to hygiene, safety, and proper mixing techniques ensures the best feeding experience.
Hygiene and Safety
Clean hands are essential when preparing infant food. Thoroughly wash hands with soap and water before handling any utensils or ingredients. Use only clean, sterilized bowls, spoons, and measuring tools.
Boil drinking water for 5 minutes and allow it to cool before use. This step eliminates potential contaminants. Measure 60mL of lukewarm water into a clean bowl.
Add 15g (approximately 1.5 Australian tablespoons) of Cerelac Wheat with Milk to the water. Stir until the mixture reaches a creamy consistency. Adjust thickness by adding more water if needed.
Test the temperature on your wrist before feeding. It should feel comfortably warm, not hot. Discard any unused portion after feeding to prevent bacterial growth.
Store unopened Cerelac in a cool, dry place. Once opened, use within 3-4 weeks for optimal freshness and nutritional value.
Packaging Information
Nestlé Cerelac Wheat with Milk comes in a cylindrical metal can. The package size is typically 14.1 ounces (400 grams).
The can features a plastic lid for easy opening and resealing. This helps maintain freshness after opening.
Product labels display essential information including ingredients, nutritional facts, and preparation instructions. Allergen warnings are clearly highlighted on the packaging.
Recycling information may vary by region. The metal can is often recyclable, but consumers should check local recycling guidelines.
Some markets offer Cerelac Wheat with Milk in resealable pouches or boxes as alternatives to cans. These packaging options aim to provide convenience and portability.
Nestlé includes a measuring scoop inside each container for accurate portioning. This helps caregivers prepare the correct serving size.
The packaging is designed to protect the cereal from moisture and contaminants. This ensures product quality and safety throughout its shelf life.