Sindh mandates prescription for formula milk to promote breastfeeding practices

INDIA – The Sindh Assembly has approved the Sindh Protection and Promotion of Breastfeeding and Child Nutrition Act, a move aimed at regulating the sale of infant formula milk and reinforcing breastfeeding practices. 

The law mandates that formula milk be sold only with a doctor’s prescription, while manufacturers are required to label their products as “artificial milk” to distinguish them from natural breast milk.

According to experts, this legislation is a critical step toward improving infant health in Sindh, including Karachi, by addressing the growing reliance on formula milk. 

A report by the Pakistan Pediatric Association indicates that only 48% of mothers in Pakistan breastfeed their children, while 52% rely on formula milk. 

Medical professionals have linked this trend to a rise in infant diseases such as measles, diarrhea, pneumonia, and typhoid, which are more prevalent among formula-fed infants compared to those who are breastfed.

Reported by leading pediatricians, including Pakistan Pediatric Association President Prof Masood Sadiq, Sindh chapter President Prof Waseem Jamalvi, and General Secretary Dr Khalid Shafi, breastfeeding plays a vital role in infant development. 

“It not only strengthens immunity but also enhances cognitive abilities and emotional stability. Unlike formula milk, which requires preparation and is susceptible to contamination, breast milk is naturally sterile and provides essential nutrients that protect against infections.”

According to Prof Jamalvi and Dr Shafi, the increasing use of artificial milk in Pakistan is alarming, with 20 companies currently selling formula products in the country.

Imported formula milk costs families between Rs25,000 to Rs30,000 per month, translating to an annual expense of Rs360,000 per child. 

This practice has also placed pressure on Pakistan’s foreign exchange reserves, as billions are spent on importing formula milk each year. 

Beyond economic concerns, medical professionals emphasize that formula lacks the immune-boosting properties of breast milk, making infants more vulnerable to illnesses. 

Many formula-fed babies experience digestive issues, particularly diarrhea, further highlighting the importance of breastfeeding.

A report by the Sindh government outlines the measures taken to enforce the new law. A special board, including representatives from the Sindh Healthcare Commission and the Pakistan Pediatric Association, has been established to monitor compliance. 

Strict penalties have been introduced for violations. Doctors promoting artificial milk can face fines of up to Rs500,000 and six months of imprisonment. 

Hospitals are prohibited from displaying advertisements for formula milk, and medical stores cannot sell it without a doctor’s prescription. 

In emergency cases, formula milk can only be administered under medical supervision and for a limited period.

Medical experts have stressed the importance of public awareness about the new law and the health risks associated with formula milk.

According to them, artificial milk should never be considered a substitute for breastfeeding except in rare medical cases. 

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