DRAP makes mother-feeding warning mandatory on formula milk packs in Pakistan

The federal government has made it mandatory for formula milk manufacturers and importers to display a special breastfeeding advisory on product packaging, stating that “Mother’s milk is best for babies.”

The Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP) has issued formal instructions to formula milk manufacturers and importers, directing them to include the warning on product packaging and labels in both Urdu and English.

According to DRAP, manufacturers must also include information highlighting the benefits and importance of breastfeeding on the informational panels of their products.

The directive further applies to formula milk products intended for children aged between one and three years, requiring the prescribed warning to be clearly displayed on their packaging.

The DRAP has instructed all relevant manufacturers and importers to ensure compliance with the decision.

The move follows directions issued by the Senate Standing Committee on Health, which had called for the inclusion of a statement highlighting the benefits of mother’s milk on formula milk packaging.

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Last year, the secretary-General of Pakistan Pediatric Association, Dr. Khalid Shafi said that no formula milk can replace mother’s milk.

In an interview with ARY News’ program “Bakhabar Savera”, Dr. Khalid Shafi, emphasized the importance of mother’s milk for newborns. He stressed that no formula can replace the nutrients and benefits of breast milk, and that it is the natural system designed by nature.

Dr. Shafiq highlighted that the high infant mortality rate in Pakistan is due to the lack of proper nutrition and care. He explained that often, newborns are not given the necessary vaccinations, leading to diseases like diarrhea and pneumonia, which can be fatal.

The expert advised that newborns should be given mother’s milk within the first hour of birth and exclusively for the first six months. He emphasized that mother’s milk protects babies from diseases and infections.