The majority of health claims on baby formula products are backed by little to no scientific evidence, an international survey found, with researchers calling for more rigorous marketing regulations.
Scientists from the Imperial College London said regulations need to provide better protections against harms linked with the aggressive marketing of baby formula.
They argue that the health claims are controversial because they can undermine breastfeeding through the perceived enhanced benefits of formula over breastfeeding.
Daniel Munblit, honorary senior lecturer at Imperial College London and co-author of the study, said they weren’t carrying out a “crusade” against infant formula, which should remain available for mothers unable to breastfeed….