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Soy infant formulas to be strictly regulated

Sydney, March 20 AAP

Manufacturers of soy-based and other non-standard breast milk substitutes will be more strictly regulated under a recommendation by the national food safety regulator.

The Australia New Zealand Food Authority (ANZFA) today released its review of standards regulating infant formulas.

The review also calls for clear labelling on all formula products stating breast is best, greater control of nutrient content and an upgrade of formula quality.

Manufacturers would be able to add nutritional substances to their products, subject to prescribed levels, but there would be limits on aluminium content.

Formulas containing high levels of fluoride would also have to be labelled.

A wider range of formula products, including formulas for premature babies, follow-on formulas for older babies and lactose-free products, would also become subject to standards governing traditional products.

ANZFA chief scientist Marion Healy said although it was recognised that breast milk was the best option for babies, formula was the next best feeding choice.

"The standard has been developed to maximise the nutritional value and safety of infant formulas," Dr Healy said in a statement.

"This recognises that infants are among the most vulnerable groups in our community and that formula products are likely to be the sole source of nutrition in the first few months of life for some infants."

The proposed new standard would regulate products designed for babies up to twelve months.

It would cover standard products as well as formulas for babies with special dietary requirements.

The recommendation will be presented to the Food Standards Ministerial Council later this year.

If accepted, manufacturers will have a two-year phase-in period to meet the new requirements.