The Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP) has made it mandatory for formula milk manufacturers and importers to print the advisory “Mother’s milk is best for babies” on all product packaging and labels.
DRAP has issued formal instructions requiring the warning to appear in both Urdu and English. Manufacturers must also include information on the benefits and importance of breastfeeding on the informational panels of their products.
The directive also covers formula milk products meant for children aged one to three years. DRAP has instructed all manufacturers and importers to ensure compliance.
The decision follows directions from the Senate Standing Committee on Health, which had called for a statement on the benefits of mother’s milk to be included on formula milk packaging.
Earlier, Pakistan Pediatric Association Secretary-General Dr. Khalid Shafi said that no formula can replace mother’s milk. He described breastfeeding as the natural system designed by nature and said formula cannot match the nutrients and benefits of breast milk.
Dr. Shafi attributed the high infant mortality rate in Pakistan to a lack of proper nutrition and care. He said newborns often miss necessary vaccinations, which leaves them vulnerable to diseases such as diarrhea and pneumonia that can be fatal.
He advised that newborns should receive mother’s milk within the first hour of birth and exclusively for the first six months, as it protects babies from diseases and infections.
