Government has been told to impose strict sanctions on manufacturers and distributors of baby milk formulas who violate international guidelines on the promotion of breastfeeding.
The call comes from Dr Gabriel Vivas Francesconi, the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) and World Health Organization (WHO) representative.
Speaking at the Baby Friendly Hospital Initiative accreditation ceremony held at the Point Fortin Hospital on Wednesday, Dr Francesconi emphasised the critical role of exclusive breastfeeding in combating childhood obesity and reducing the risk of non-communicable diseases in adulthood.
He underscored the importance of adhering to the International Code of Marketing of Breast-milk Substitutes, which seeks to prevent the inappropriate promotion of baby milk formulas.
“When we invest in the health of our nation, the positive ripple effects result in stronger families, healthier communities, and a more prosperous country,” Dr Francesconi said. He urged the government to monitor and enforce the code, ensuring that any violations by baby milk manufacturers and distributors are met with appropriate sanctions.
Dr Francesconi also highlighted PAHO’s commitment to providing technical support to countries, helping them track global breastfeeding targets and monitor compliance with international guidelines.
“PAHO supports reporting on the monitoring of the marketing of breast milk substitutes and provides guidelines to prevent the inappropriate promotion of these products,” he said.
This includes not only infant formula but also bottles and nipples, which can undermine breastfeeding efforts.
Health Minister Terrence Deyalsingh,in agreement with Dr Francesconi’s sentiments, urged mothers to return to the practice of exclusive breastfeeding.
He warned against the deceptive marketing tactics of baby milk formula manufacturers, which often claim their products are as good as or better than breast milk.
“Known as liquid gold, this first milk, or colostrum, plays a vital role in building your baby’s immune system,” Deyalsingh said. “Breast milk contains antibodies that help babies fight infections, and it fosters a unique bonding experience between mother and child. Don’t be fooled by formulas that claim to support brain growth—breast milk is the best milk.”
Deyalsingh lamented the societal changes that have led to a decline in breastfeeding, noting that in earlier generations, breastfeeding was a natural practice that did not require formal instruction.
“For some reason, we lost the natural ability to breastfeed, and now we have to teach mothers how to do it,” he said.
He praised the Breastfeeding Association of Trinidad and Tobago for their tireless advocacy and efforts to promote breastfeeding, and he emphasised the health benefits of breast milk, including its ability to prevent diarrhoea and gastrointestinal issues in babies.
“Breastfed babies have lower rates of infections, and breast milk is free, has no expiry date, and is the perfect food for your baby,” he added.