Closed petition Close loopholes in the law surrounding the marketing of formula milks

Closed on 26 April 2016

There is a robust International Code of Marketing of Breast Milk Substitutes, however the UK chose to only implement parts of this code, not the full code. This has left loopholes in the law enabling formula companies to continue marketing to parents with infants aged 6 months and under.

It is estimated that an increase in breastfeeding could save the UK upwards of £40 million per year just in the treatment of 5 illnesses, illnesses that would be less prevalent with an increase in breastfeeding. Breastfeeding reduces the risks of gastroenteritis, inner ear infections, respiratory infections, asthma, allergies, diabetes and obesity for children. It also reduces the risk of breast and ovarian cancers for the breastfeeding woman. Health benefits that cannot be ignored.