Infant formula and follow-on formula
25.3.2015
Question for written answer P-004723-15
to the Commission
Rule 130
Keith Taylor (Verts/ALE)
In August 2014, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) updated its opinion on the essential composition of infant and follow-on formula, in which it proposed an almost identical composition of infant formula and follow-on formula.
In view of EFSA’s opinion[1], and considering that the Commission is currently working on a delegated act as regards infant formula and follow-on formula:
- 1.Is the Commission considering extending the advertising restrictions on infant formula to apply also to follow-on formula, and, if not, how will the Commission provide Member States with the legal certainty that they can adopt stricter advertising rules?
- 2.Will it ask EFSA to evaluate the potential risks of high sugar levels in baby foods and young-child formula, including the effects on childhood obesity levels and on the development of children’s taste palates?
- 3.Will it ensure that the suitability of any new ingredient added to infant and follow-on formula must be demonstrated by appropriate, independently funded, peer-reviewed studies, and that the addition of any ingredient must undergo a pre-market approval process?
- [1] http://www.efsa.europa.eu/en/efsajournal/pub/3760.htm