Infant Nutrition
We agree with leading medical and health organizations throughout the world
that breastfeeding is the best form of infant nutrition and should be the first
choice for babies.
Abbott is a leading manufacturer of infant formulas. We agree with medical
and health organizations throughout the world that breastfeeding is the best
form of infant nutrition and should be the first choice for babies. When an
alternative to breastfeeding is necessary or chosen, we offer high–quality
infant formulas and nutritional products. We comply with all relevant laws,
regulations and promotional standards around the world. This includes adhering
to principles of the International Code of Marketing of Breastmilk Substitutes
where it has been implemented by governments.
We provide materials that help educate physicians, nurses, midwives and
others on the latest breastfeeding information and advice, as well as materials
that health care professionals can use to help new mothers and families learn
the basics of infant nutrition and health care.
Although more can be done to further support breastfeeding around the world,
iron–fortified infant formula is the only safe, nutritious and recommended
alternative when breast milk is not an option. Infant formula provides a
superior alternative to less–healthy, home–based breast milk substitutes such
as raw cow's milk or rice water.
While Abbott supports breastfeeding as the best form of infant nutrition, we
also support the right of all mothers to choose the best feeding option for
their babies and themselves, given their unique life circumstances. There are
many factors that may impact feeding decisions, including cultural, societal,
economic and health factors, as well as the recommendations of health care
professionals. We support mothers' and health care professionals' freedom to
access information on all available feeding options.
We constantly strive to create infant formulas and nutritional products that
offer the best of the alternatives to breast milk. Abbott is committed to
continuous innovation and to developing formulas that perform as close to the
gold standard of breast milk as possible.
For more information about Abbott's breastfeeding support and education
programs in the United States: