(2004/C 88 E/0348)

WRITTEN QUESTION E-1209/03

by Alexandros Alavanos (GUE/NGL) to the Commission

(2 April 2003)

Subject:   Distribution of infant milk in African countries

While the World Health Organisation (WHO) advises against the advertising of milk powder for babies in order to promote breastfeeding, companies producing milk and manufacturing infant milk powder, for example Nestlé and Danone, have infringed WHO guidelines, arguing that they are seeking to reduce child mortality and are distributing milk powder and other items to pregnant women, for example stethoscopes, free of charge. In the accompanying advertising material they maintain that their milk is comparable to breast milk.

Given that such actions infringe WHO guidelines regarding the promotion of breastfeeding and given the European interests in these companies, what action will the Commission take in response to this situation?

Answer given by Mr Nielson on behalf of the Commission

(21 May 2003)

The Commission fully supports the International Code of Marketing of Breast-milk substitutes, which was adopted by the World Health Assembly in 1981. The Commission is aware and concerned that there are still baby food companies that do not adhere to the Code and governments which have not implemented its provisions. The Commission will continue to encourage the compliance of the private sector, and particularly the companies, mentioned by the Honourable Member, with the International Code of Marketing of Breast-milk substitutes in the context of the European Union Corporate Social Responsibility Stakeholders Forum and associated dialogues and partnerships.