Sir, – “We must close the loophole that facilitates misleading online ads for baby formula” (Opinion & Analysis, August 9th) contained a number of inaccurate claims in relation to the marketing of infant formula. Dairy Industry Ireland’s specialised nutrition member companies, which manufacture and sell infant formula in Ireland, and export internationally, support the principles of the World Health Organisation’s International Code of Marketing of Breastmilk Substitutes. As such, they do not in any communication claim that infant formula is equivalent or superior to breastmilk.
The advertising and promotion of infant formula are strictly regulated in Ireland, with EU law governing written, electronic, and verbal communication to consumers and healthcare professionals in this regard.
Our members fully agree that breastfeeding is the best source of nutrition for babies and should be promoted and protected.
Formula milks are the only legitimate, safe and nutritionally complete option for parents who cannot or choose not to breastfeed. – Yours, etc,
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Dr MIRIAM RYAN
Head of Specialised
Nutrition & Food Policy,
Dairy Industry Ireland,
Dublin 2.