Anne McLellan responds to the

INFACT Canada report.

 

Out of the Mouths of Babes: How Canada’s Infant Foods Industry Defies

World Health Organization Rules & Puts Infant Health at Risk

 

In a letter dated January 28, 2003, Canada’s Minister responsible for Health Canada, Anne McLellan, informs us:  

 

"As a Minister of Health, I appreciate your dedication to the issue of breastfeeding. Health Canada recognizes the benefits that are attributed to breastfeeding and remains committed to ensuring that children are given the best possible start in life.

 

"The Food and Drugs Act prohibits the labeling or advertising of any food in a ‘manner that is false, misleading or deceptive or is likely to create an erroneous impression regarding its character, value, quantity, composition, merit or safety.’

 

The regulations prohibit any representation on the label of a food, that a food is for consumption by an infant less than six months of age. This [latter] prohibition does not apply to infant formula. 

 

"Your report has been forwarded to my departmental officials for their review and any required action. I am forwarding a copy of your report to my colleague, the Honourable Lyle Vanclief, Minister of Agriculture, and Allan Rock, the Minister of Industry, as this document also pertains to issues that are the mandate of their respective departments." 

 

We look forward to hearing from the Minister on what action she will require.

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