A study led by Imperial College London, published in The BMJ, reveals that many health claims associated with infant formulas lack solid evidence. The research scrutinized the nutritional assertions made by formula brands, which often suggest benefits such as improved brain development and enhanced immunity, without scientific backing. Out of 757 products examined from 15 countries, 608 made at least one health claim, but only a fraction—161—referenced scientific research. Alarmingly, approximately 90% of these studies were biased due to funding from the industry or being conducted by the industry itself.
In Norway, where breastfeeding rates are high, researchers noted that while many formulas claimed nutritional benefits, the market is less saturated with varied products compared to other countries. Norwegian legislation restricts unverified claims, yet similar transparency issues exist across the board. The researchers have called for stricter regulations to ensure consumer protection and improve product credibility. They warn that self-regulation by the industry is insufficient, with support from WHO’s Professor Nigel Rollins advocating for better oversight to safeguard children’s health against aggressive marketing practices.
