2 minVitamin D is one of the most important vitamins for your baby's growth and development. But did you know that not all vitamin D supplements are equally suitable for babies? Some products contain synthetic additives, such as E numbers, which you would prefer to avoid. In this article, you can read all about what vitamin D does, what you need to know about synthetic additives, and how to make the best choice for your little one.
In this article, you can read
- Why vitamin D is important for your baby
- What synthetic vitamin D is
- What E numbers are and whether they are safe
- Why you should be careful with propyl gallate (E310) and aspartame
- How to choose natural vitamin D for your baby
Artificial additives (E numbers) in synthetic vitamin D
A synthetic vitamin is a vitamin that has been developed in a laboratory. Synthetic supplements therefore contain artificial substances. Colourings, flavourings and/or fragrances, anti-caking agents and glazing agents are added to make the supplements more appealing. This is in contrast to natural vitamins, which only contain ingredients that come from nature, such as plants and/or animal products.
The additions to a product are called additives. The EFSA, European Food Safety Authority, advises the EU on whether or not to allow an additive. This is done on the basis of scientific research. After approval, the substance is given an E number, which is why we also refer to additives as E numbers.
Are E numbers bad for my baby?
No, in principle not. They have been approved by the EFSA. However, there are a few exceptions, namely the E number propyl gallate (E310) and the use of aspartame (E951 and E96) in the case of PKU (metabolic disorder). It is therefore advisable to buy vitamin D for babies that is free of propyl gallate and, if possible, also free of aspartame.
Effect of propyl gallate (E310) in vitamin D insufficiently tested in babies
At the end of 2019, Dutch paediatricians issued a negative recommendation for vitamin D supplements containing propyl gallate, after research by RTL Nieuws showed that this E number has not been proven to be safe for use in children younger than 1 year of age (RTL-nieuws, 2019).
Propyl gallate is a substance added to some foods to prevent spoilage. The effect of the substance on young children has not been sufficiently researched scientifically. For this reason, paediatricians advise against giving synthetic vitamin D containing propyl gallate to babies.
Aspartame (E951 and E96) should be avoided in PKU
In the first week after birth, your baby will be tested for various congenital disorders, including PKU. Your child will receive a heel prick test for this. PKU is a hereditary metabolic disorder also known as phenylketonuria.
It occurs in approximately one in 18,000 children. If your child has this disorder, it is important to avoid products that contain aspartame. Aspartame is used as a sweetener in some synthetic vitamins.
Vitamin D drops for babies
Vitamin D is essential for the development of babies.
In the case of a condition or allergy, it is always advisable, for babies, children and adults alike, to check whether synthetic vitamin D can be used or not. At VitaminFit, our nutritional supplements are 100% natural. This includes our vitamin D drops for babies and children.
