Federal Health Minister Mustafa Kamal has directed the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP) to collect samples of infant formula and other breast milk substitutes and test their ingredients and safety for consumption.
He issued the directive during a meeting of the Senate Standing Committee on National Health Services, Regulations and Coordination, where lawmakers raised concerns about formula milk advertising and enforcement of the Breastfeeding and Child Nutrition Act 2002.
Senators Anusha Rahman and Shahzaib Durrani called for stricter enforcement of the law, which restricts the promotion and advertising of breast milk substitutes. They argued that companies should not market infant formula as ordinary milk.
DRAP CEO Dr. Obaidullah told the committee that the authority regulates infant formula under its rules for alternative medicines and food products.
Committee Chairman Senator Amir Waliuddin Chishti said a disclaimer stating, “Mother’s Milk is the Best for a Child,” had appeared in advertisements on 29 television channels. However, a company obtained a stay order from the Islamabad High Court against the relevant notice.
Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) Chairperson Amberin Jan confirmed the legal challenge and said the authority had contacted the Pakistan Broadcasters Association to ensure the disclaimer appeared on other channels.
Mustafa Kamal also acknowledged the challenges faced by mothers who cannot breastfeed and said the government was preparing an advertisement to promote breastfeeding. The minister directed DRAP to test formula products and urged the relevant authorities to enforce the existing law.
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