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IFC Guidance For Consumers Regarding Purchase of Infant Formula Products
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Infant formula manufacturers take their responsibility to provide safe and nutritious infant formula to millions of infants every day very seriously. Infant formula is the most highly regulated food in the world and continues to be the only safe, nutritious and recommended alternative to breast milk. Because it is often a sole-source food product for newborn babies, its nutrient content is critical to support a baby’s proper growth and development.
To ensure the highest possible quality, the International Formula Council (IFC) recommends consumers purchase infant formulas only through established retailers or directly from the manufacturer. Infant formulas sold though alternative distribution channels, such as flea markets and internet auction sites, are not regulated or authorized so the quality of the products cannot be guaranteed.
Although unlikely, products sold through alternative distribution channels could be inappropriately stored, be past their “use by” date, or have been stolen, all of which could impact the product’s safety as well as potentially threaten an infant’s health. Further, the anonymous nature of these channels allows little to no chance of trace back by authorities in the event a consumer purchases a stolen or suboptimal product or if a recall is issued.