NESTLÉ'S RESPONSE TO THE BABY MILK ACTION FOUR-POINT PLAN
Following the issuing of a four-point plan by IBFAN, Nestlé proposes that IBFAN meet with the infant food industry and WHO to discuss important Code issues.
Why does Nestlé suggest this?
Nestlé follows the national implementation of the WHO Code in all countries in the world. Where governments in developed parts of the world have their own legislation on how to implement the Code, Nestlé abides by this legislation. In addition, Nestlé voluntarily implements the entire WHO Code in all developing countries whether or not they have implemented it into their national legislation. www.babymilk.nestle.com
The WHO Code was passed by all member states of the World Health Organisation, except the US, as a universal recommendation to governments. Governments are urged to implement the recommendations according to their legislative and social frameworks. Governments are also given the responsibility to properly monitor the Code's implementation. This means "Member states can implement the WHO Code recommendations in their entirety, go beyond them or ignore them" (Dr Gro Harlem Brundtland, WHO Secretary General, 1998).
Via their websites, two associated non-governmental organisations - BMA and IBFAN - have proposed to Nestlé, and to Nestlé alone, a four-point plan for the future regarding the WHO Code and marketing of breast-milk substitutes. Nestlé believes, however, that it is not appropriate for NGOs and industry to negotiate on Code interpretation because neither can take over the role of WHO as a policy making body and no organisation can place itself above the decisions of the governments of sovereign nations. But, as Code adherence by all players is a vitally important issue, we have to find ways forward.
Which organisation is best qualified to clarify the Code?
BMA and IBFAN interpret the Code in a way that Nestlé believes differs from the WHO Code itself. The only organisation qualified to clarify questions related to the International (WHO) Code of Marketing of Breast-milk Substitutes is the World Health Organisation itself. We also believe that WHO, under the guidance of its annual World Health Assembly (WHA), is the only body that can act as a valid mediator between organisations when different interpretations of the Code arise.
How can we move forward together?
Nestlé is one of many companies making and selling infant formula. In some countries Nestlé is the largest manufacturer and distributor; in others it is not. In the United Kingdom, where BMA is based, Nestlé does not sell its infant formula products at all.
We have therefore contacted the World Health Organisation, BMA/IBFAN and other infant formula manufacturers, to pursue ways in which all involved parties can work together to further the Aim and Principles of the International (WHO) Code. We trust that this process will evolve in a manner which respects the duties and responsibilities of all, and in a spirit of openness and co-operation.
International (WHO) Code of Marketing of Breast-milk Substitutes
Article 1: Aim of the Code
The aim of this Code is to contribute to the provision of safe and adequate nutrition for infants, by the protection and promotion of breast-feeding, and by ensuring the proper use of breast-milk substitutes, when these are necessary, on the basis of adequate information and through appropriate marketing and distribution.
