Infant formula makers back new labelling standard
Manufacturers of infant formula are largely supportive of a proposed new domestic labelling standard for their products.
Restrictions on marketing infant formula in Australia have been extended for another three years.
The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has reauthorised the agreement that bans direct public marketing of infant formula.
In New Zealand, the Ministry of Health prohibits marketing of infant formula for babies under 6 months.
The ACCC says it has accepted the Marketing in Australia of Infant Formula: Manufacturers and Importers Agreement (MAIF) to stay until the July 31 2024, to maintain restrictions on the promotion of breastmilk substitutes.
ACCC deputy chair Delia Rickard said the ban has significant public health benefits through protecting the rate of breastfeeding.
"Without this agreement among infant formua manufacturers and importers there is a risk of an increase in the marketing of infant formula, both directly to consumers and indirectly through references to infants in the marketing of toddler milk," said Rickard.
The ACCC has ongoing concerns the marketing of toddler milk products undermines the effectiveness of the agreement. Issues with advertising complaints are also present because of timeliness and transparency for how they are handled under the agreement.
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Multiple agencies are working to help farmers in Otago hit by the recent floods and Southland farmers who have faced many months of adverse weather.
Farm sales are on the rise. According to recent data from the Real Estate Institute of New Zealand (REINZ), there was an 18.9% increase in farm sales for the three months ending August 2024 compared to the same period in 2023.
Waikato farmer Jim van der Poel’s foray into dairy industry governance began 25 years ago with a bang.
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