The US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have introduced ‘Operation Stork Speed’ to enhance the availability of safe, reliable, and nutritious infant formula.
Led by HHS Secretary Robert F Kennedy Jr, the FDA is strengthening its efforts to ensure the quality, safety, nutritional adequacy, and resilience of the domestic infant formula supply. The agency is implementing a series of actions and initiatives, including launching a nutrient review process and increasing testing for heavy metals and other contaminants. Additionally, the FDA is urging companies to innovate and develop new infant formulas while providing clear information to consumers about formula ingredients. These efforts are aimed at ensuring a consistent supply of essential nutrition for formula-fed babies and children.
Utilizing its regulatory authority, the FDA is committed to upholding the safety, nutritional quality, and resilience of infant formula and the infant formula supply chain. In compliance with the law, the FDA will initiate a comprehensive update and review of infant formula nutrients, marking the first such review since 1998. The agency will also enhance testing for contaminants in infant formula and other foods consumed by children, promote transparency and clearer labeling practices among companies, and collaborate with scientific bodies to address research gaps related to the health outcomes of formula feeding in infancy and childhood. By taking these steps, the FDA aims to ensure that the US maintains the highest standards for infant formula supply worldwide.
Source: USFDA
