Substitute for the Breast Milk (Sale, Distribution and Control) Act 2049: Revisited

There is a National strategy of infant and young child feeding which includes exclusively breastfeeding till six months timely start of complementary feeding and continuing breastfeeding till two years and beyond. However very few of us are aware of Breast Milk Substitute Act (BMS) in the country. Here we have tried to summarize the Act which would help us to be aware of our law and protect and promote breastfeeding. BMS Act 2049 was published by Government of Nepal in 2049. This Act focuses mainly to control the sale and distribution of Breast Milk Substitute (BMS). BMS means an edible product that is sold and distributed to partially or fully substitute the Breast Milk. In Nepal this Act covers till one year of age. After the formation of Act in 2049 there has not been any amendment. With increased marketing policies for BMS and low awareness about the law its high time the Act is revised amended and more awareness programs to be initiated. The main objective of this Act is to patronize and promote breastfeeding. For the implementation of the Act government has appointed Breast Feeding Protection and Promotion Committee (BPPC) which is chaired by the Secretary of Health Ministry. Ministry of Health with consultation with BPPC can give permission to publicize the information and educational materials about infant food. The Act has clear guidelines for manufacturers and distributors along with health care professionals as well. (Excerpt)