WHO (World Health Organizatin) code of conduct:
IBCLC Lactation Consultants are required to adhere to the International Code of Marketing of Breastmilk Substitutes. The purpose of this Code is to contribute to the provision of safe and adequate nutrition for infants, by protecting and promoting breastfeeding and by ensuring the appropriate use of breast milk substitutes when needed, based on adequate information and through appropriate marketing and distribution.
It means that parents must be able to make their own choices regarding their child's nutrition, without being influenced by commercial parties. Thanks to the WHO code, advertising for baby food under six months has been restricted in the Netherlands & worldwide. The WHO code is more extensive than the Dutch Commodities Act or European legislation and regulations.
The WHO Code aims to:
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protect and promote breastfeeding
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provide parents with appropriate and sufficient information
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have the proper use of breast milk substitutes - if necessary
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have guidelines for the sale and advertising of baby food are followed