baby feeding

The infant formula industry’s products are manufactured with strict adherence to Good Manufacturing Practices using high quality ingredients. All infant formula products, including liquid and powdered formulas, are extensively tested before release to assure that they meet the nutritional needs of infants and to assure the safety of the product, including microbiological quality with respect to Cronobacter spp. (formerly Enterobacter sakazakii).

The infant formula industry takes all potential safety concerns very seriously, and we support science-based efforts to produce infant formula products of the highest possible quality.  When new information becomes available on substances like BPA, we support bringing that information forward through the accepted process of scientific peer review and evaluation. 

A new study from by Lisa Wirihana and Alan Barnard titled, “Women’s perceptions of their healthcare experience when they choose not to breastfeed,” was recently published in Women and Birth. This research study explored the healthcare experiences of seven women who chose not breastfeed.  These women were interviewed about their healthcare experience regarding infant feeding approximately four months after giving birth.  Researchers found five unmet needs in these women: equity, self-sufficiency, support, education, and the need not to feel pressured.&n

International Formula Council* (IFC) supports breastfeeding as the ideal choice for infant feeding. IFC also supports the right of parents to choose the feeding option for their baby that best fits their individual family situation.  For those mothers who cannot or choose not to breastfeed, infant formula is the only safe, nutritious, and recommended alternative.

In Rebecca Goldin, Ph.D and Cindy Merrick's recent July STATS article, the answer to this question is “not likely.”  Although the authors note it is possible there will be a drop in SIDS rates if breastfeeding rates rise, they state: “…there is limited evidence that breastfeeding has an impact on SIDS.

NAPNAP is providing an educational video that teaches parents the crucial steps in safely preparing a baby bottle as well as handling and storing baby formula.

Recent research has shown that parents want and need information on infant feeding, both breastfeeding and formula feeding.

A study in the February 2011 edition of Pediatrics titled, “Timing of Solid Food Introduction and Risk of Obesity in Preschool-Aged Children” by Susanna Huh et al.

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 appropriate nutrient levels and delivery throughout shelf life, infant formulas are made according to Good Manufacturing Practices.