The US Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and the US Food and Drug Administration is introducing a new initiative to improve the quality, safety and nutrition of the US infant formula supply, says a press release from the FDA.
Through Operation Stork, the regulator will implement a range of actions focused on infant formula — including nutrient review processes and enhanced contaminant testing.
The FDA also aims to help bolster the infant formula market’s supply chain, ensuring that formula-fed babies receive appropriate nutrition in the key early years.
Together, the government bodies will also encourage comapnies to develop novel infant formulas and facilitate the spread of knowledge to consumers about integral formula ingredients.
Operation Stork will involve the implementation of seven strategies, including:
- Nutrient review is now required by law, and the FDA will issue companies with a Request for Information within the coming months
- Increased contaminant testing in infant formulas and food products designed for children — specifically heavy metals
- Extending the personal importation policy
- Encouraging industry transparency and clear labelling
- Starting a line of communication with consumers and industry stakeholders to ensure transparency, meaning the body will share information regarding nutrients and health outcomes with the public
- Collaborating with scientific bodies such as the NIH to prioritise research that addresses knowledge gaps associated with both the short and long-term impacts of formula feeding
“The FDA will use all resources and authorities at its disposal to make sure infant formula products are safe and wholesome for the families and children who rely on them,” said HHS Secretary Kennedy.
“Helping each family and child get off to the right start from birth is critical to our pursuit to Make America Healthy Again.”
“We want to ensure that mums and caregivers can rely on safe, nutritious and consistently available infant formula, which can help support health and wellbeing during critical stages of development and life,” added Acting FDA Commissioner Sara Brenner.
“Whether breastfed, bottle fed or both, the rising generation must be nourished in a way that promotes health and longevity over the course of their lives.”
- Companies:
- US Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
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