FDA announces new efforts to expand options for infant formula

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The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced a set of actions and initiatives that focus on infant formula. These include beginning the nutrient review process and increasing testing for heavy metals and other contaminants.

“The FDA will use all resources and authorities at its disposal to make sure infant formula products are safe and wholesome for the families and children who rely on them,” said HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., in a press release. “Helping each family and child get off to the right start from birth is critical to our pursuit to Make America Healthy Again.”

The nutrient review process, according to FDA’s press release, would be the first comprehensive update and review of infant formula nutrients since 1998. This will begin with the issuing of a Request for Information in the coming months. The agency is also encouraging the development of new infant formulas and the clarification of “opportunities to help inform consumers about formula ingredients.”

“The FDA is deeply committed to ensuring that moms and other caregivers of infants and young children and other individuals who rely on infant formula for their nutritional needs have confidence that these products are safe, consistently available, and contain the nutrients essential to promote health and wellbeing during critical stages of development and life,” added Acting FDA Commissioner Sara Brenner, MD, MPH. “Whether breastfed, bottle fed or both, the rising generation must be nourished in a way that promotes health and longevity over the course of their lives.”

The initiative has been dubbed by FDA as Operation Stork Speed.