Working within the Code

This resources supports health services to adhere to the International Code of Marketing of Breastmilk Substitutes (the Code), to protect breastfeeding and ensure that parents who formula feed have access to accurate and evidence-based information.

The Code is an integral tool to help protect babies’ rights, enabling families to make infant feeding choices free from commercial influence and with full understanding of what is in their child’s best interest. It helps give babies the best possible chance to grow, develop and flourish in their critical foundation years.

This guide will help health professionals to use the Code in daily practice and to negotiate some of the challenges and questions faced at work, enabling them to approach tricky situations with confidence and integrity. Find out more about the Code.

Further reading

• The WHO has produced a Frequently Asked Questions booklet to help readers understand The Code.
• The International Code of Marketing of Breastmilk Substitutes
• Infant formula and responsive bottle feeding: A guide for parents
• First Steps Nutrition Trust website: for in-depth and up to date information on formula milks in the UK
• Events in commercial premises infosheet