As Sanlu infant formula is found to have been tainted with melamine and more brands are discovered to be culprits as well, parents around the nation are deeply concerned with their children's immediate and long term health. UNICEF supports and promotes breastfeeding. UNICEF works together with Baby Friendly Hospital Initiative Hong Kong Association (BFHIHKA) to promote breastfeeding as the best means of avoiding mishaps associated with infant formula. World Health Organization (WHO) recommends infants to be exclusively breastfed for 6 months and with the addition of appropriate complementary foods continue breastfeeding to two years or beyond. This provides all that infants need to grow and develop and avoids the problems caused by using breastmilk substitutes.

Manufacturers of infant formula advertise incessantly their products can bring the best of health and development to infants. Yet such marketing techniques mislead parents to think that formula milk has no risks at all. Apart from the current problem involving powdered formula produced in China, over the years, practically every brand of formula milk produced in different countries has had recalls for different reasons. BFHIHKA strongly condemns the addition of harmful chemicals into formula milk ignoring the wellbeing and safety of children. In fact, powdered infant formula itself may contain pathogens, a known risk that could affect infants’ development and lead to death. Hence WHO is very concerned with the quality of formula and its proper labelling recommending clear warning on packages that appropriate handling and usage of powdered formula is essential.

Breastfeeding has always been the best and safest means of feeding our infants. Besides providing essential nutrition, enhancing infants’ immune system, and strengthening mother infant bonding, there are no worries about quality or safety. BFHIHKA promotes breastfeeding and monitors the improper marketing activities of formula milk in Hong Kong . We urge the Hong Kong government to increase the support of breastfeeding through incorporation into local laws the “International Code of Marketing of Breastmilk Substitutes” developed by the WHO and UNICEF, support of facilities with maternity services to comply with the Ten Steps to Successful Breastfeeding and encouragement of Mother Baby Friendly Workplace. We hope breastfeeding can be more prevalent in Hong Kong through governmental support and promotion so that our children can grow in a safer and healthier environment.

23rd September 2008