The International Code of Marketing of Breast-milk Substitutes is the first original legal instrument of its kind adopted by the World Health Organization, in cooperation with UNICEF. The International Code, for the first time at the international plane, deals with a health issue that is of considerable importance to any society, namely, the healthy growth and development of infants. This volume is a thorough analysis of the provisions of the international code, and gives a detailed account of its history. The aim of the International Code and its material scope and definitions and certain known marketing practices to promote the use of breast-milk substitutes are described, as well as its implementation and the question of whether or not Member States of WHO are under a legal obligation to implement it. Modes of implementation are addressed, as is the monitoring of the International Code by States, individually and collectively, as well as self-monitoring by the infant-food industry, and the role of NGOs, institutions and individuals in the process. An appendix, containing the text of the International Code, and the relevant resolutions of the World Health Assembly and the Executive Board of WHO, a bibliography and a detailed index conclude the volume.

This book provides information on government performance in fostering open and inclusive policy making in 25 countries.

"The International Code of Marketing of Breast-milk Substitutes" is the first original legal instrument of its kind adopted by the World Health Organization, in cooperation with UNICEF. The International Code, for the first time at the international plane, deals with a health issue that is of considerable importance to any society, namely, the healthy growth and development of infants. This volume is a thorough analysis of the provisions of the international code, and gives a detailed account of its history. The aim of the International Code and its material scope and definitions and certain known marketing practices to promote the use of breast-milk substitutes are described, as well as its implementation and the question of whether or not Member States of WHO are under a legal obligation to implement it. Modes of implementation are addressed, as is the monitoring of the International Code by States, individually and collectively, as well as self-monitoring by the infant-food industry, and the role of NGOs, institutions and individuals in the process. An appendix, containing the text of the International Code, and the relevant resolutions of the World Health Assembly and the Executive Board of WHO, a bibliography and a detailed index conclude the volume.

Feeding during the first two years of life is very important for the nutrition and growth of an infant. It has a great effect on early morbidity and mortality and long-term effects on health. Breastfeeding has many benefits for both the infant and mother, whereas formula feeding, although associated with disadvantages and problems, can be life-saving for infants who need it. This book examines many aspects of infant feeding and nutrition with chapters covering such topics as the impact of the first 1000 days of nutrition on child health and development, breastfeeding, factors behind the decision to breastfeed or formula feed, and the relationship between breastfeeding and gut microbiota, among others.

George Kent's book is an articulate and incisive analysis of the ways in which some governments actively promote the use of infant formula. They do this despite the predictable harm it does to children's health. The book is a timely and powerful reminder to governments in the rich and poor world of their obligations under international law to protect children's health and the right to food through framework legislation and the regulation of non-State actors including corporations. Effective remedies are urgently required.

WHO and UNICEF jointly developed this global strategy to focus world attention on the impact that feeding practices have on the nutritional status, growth and development, health, and thus the very survival of infants and young children. The strategy is the result of a comprehensive two-year participatory process. It is based on the evidence of nutrition's significance in the early months and years of life, and of the crucial role that appropriate feeding practices play in achieving optimal health outcomes. The strategy is intended as a guide for action; it identifies interventions with a proven positive impact; it emphasizes providing mothers and families the support they need to carry out their crucial roles, and it explicitly defines the obligations and responsibilities in this regards of governments, international organizations, and other concerned parties.