ISDI statement on the WHO study ‘How the marketing of formula milk influences our decisions on infant feeding’
ISDI and its members are committed to improving nutrition and providing the highest quality products that help meet the nutritional needs of mothers, infants and children. Breastfeeding is the optimal way to ensure the healthy growth and development of infants during the first months of life. When breastfeeding is not an option, however, the only recognised and proven alternatives are scientifically developed and clinically demonstrated breastmilk substitutes (BMS), which are manufactured in accordance with internationally recognised standards[1] (Codex Alimentarius) and local regulations.
Access to scientific and evidence-based information on alternative feeding choices enables healthcare professionals (HCPs) to provide the best nutritional advice to parents and caregivers to make informed choices. Scientific and factual information provided to HCPs is consistent with, and supportive of, the medical responsibility of HCPs in providing nutrition recommendations that are evidence-based and meet rigorous scientific standards.
The International Code of Marketing of Breast-milk Substitutes (WHO Code) and subsequent World Health Assembly resolutions are recommendations[2] directed to member states, to translate, as appropriate, into local legislation, regulations or other suitable measures based on their national context, aligned with local health development objectives.
The WHO Code covers any and all forms of marketing, including digital marketing. ISDI members comply with all laws and regulations in the countries in which they operate and have extensive internal approval and audit processes in place to ensure their online and offline content meets all legal, regulatory and nutritional science requirements. In addition, manufacturers of infant and young child nutrition have their own internal and external mechanisms for policy compliance. Our members support efforts by national governments to ensure compliance with all national laws and regulations.
Our members are ready to work together with all stakeholders to support optimal infant health and well-being.
[1] See the Codex Alimentarius ‘Standard for Infant Formula and Formulas for Special Medical Purposes Intended for Infants’ (CXS 72-1981) and Standard for Follow-up formula (CXS 156-1987; currently under revision)
[2] WHA34/1981/REC/1 (Annex 3) ‘THE LEGAL AND OTHER IMPLICATIONS OF THE ADOPTION OF THE DRAFT INTERNATIONAL CODE OF MARKETING OF BREAST -MILK SUBSTITUTES AS A REGULATION OR AS A RECOMMENDATION’