In a significant development, the Sindh Assembly passed a new law on Thursday, aimed at guaranteeing the provision of safe and sufficient nutrition for infants and young children up to 36 months old. The law, titled the ‘Sindh Protection and Promotion of Breast-Feeding and Young Child Nutrition Act, 2023‘, was introduced by Qasim Soomro, the Parliamentary Secretary for Health. Its primary objective is to promote breastfeeding and healthy diets to combat obesity and prevent non-communicable diseases.
Regulation of Marketing Practices for Infant Nutrition
A key strategy implemented by the law involves the regulation of marketing practices concerning specific products, including breast milk substitutes and feeding bottles. Notably, the law prohibits the use of the term ‘milk‘ on infant formula powder products. Such measures are intended to discourage the promotion of designated products for infants and young children by business representatives approaching healthcare facilities and professionals.
Establishment of Infant and Young Child Nutrition Board
To oversee the promotion of breastfeeding and develop relevant policies, the Sindh government will establish an Infant and Young Child Nutrition Board. This board, led by the Minister for Health, will provide expert guidance and propose effective strategies. It will also play a crucial role in setting standards for designated products and addressing any violations of the Act through the receipt of reports.
Safeguarding Infant and Young Child Health
The new law further prohibits the sale or distribution of unregistered designated products. Only health professionals who are not affiliated with businesses will be authorized to provide instructions regarding the usage of these products. These measures aim to safeguard the health and well-being of infants and young children, promoting their proper nutrition and overall development.
