Key Update

The Breastfeeding Promotion Network of India (BPNI) on Thursday urged the Centre to strengthen safety regulations for powdered infant formula after global recalls linked to harmful bacterial contamination and toxins. Marking World Breastfeeding Protection Day, the organisation asked the Union Health Ministry and the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) to issue national guidelines on the safe preparation, storage, handling, and disposal of powdered infant formula in line with World Health Organisation (WHO) recommendations.

“Powdered Formula Is Not Sterile”

BPNI stressed that powdered infant formula is not a sterile product and said contamination can occur during manufacturing through raw ingredients or the production environment. The group urged authorities to mandate clear front-of-pack warnings and strengthen surveillance, public alert systems, and recall response mechanisms for infant feeding products. According to BPNI, harmful organisms such as Salmonella, Cronobacter sakazakii, Clostridium botulinum, and Bacillus cereus can contaminate powdered formula and trigger severe infections, sepsis, and meningitis, particularly in preterm and low-birth-weight infants.

Group Calls for Stronger Enforcement of IMS Act

The organisation also called for stricter implementation of the Infant Milk Substitutes (IMS) Act, stating that misleading marketing practices continue to promote unnecessary formula use in hospitals and healthcare settings. It urged the government to immediately issue advisories to healthcare facilities and medical professionals on the risks associated with contaminated powdered formula.

Breastfeeding Remains the Safest Option

Reiterating that breastfeeding remains the safest and most reliable source of infant nutrition, BPNI urged authorities to treat infant feeding safety as a public health priority. The organisation cited NFHS-5 data showing that a significant number of families in India use infant formula, while the domestic baby food and formula market has reached an estimated value of Rs. 205 billion.

Recalls Reported Across More Than 130 Countries

BPNI noted that contamination-linked recalls since November 2025 have affected more than 130 countries and triggered investigations into infant deaths in France. The group added that WHO and global food safety agencies have long warned countries about the risks associated with powdered infant formula and the importance of safe handling practices.

Source: The New Indian  Express