WHO Code (International Code of Marketing of Breast-milk Substitutes)

The WHO Code is an international guideline established by the World Health Organization to regulate the marketing of breast-milk substitutes, such as formula. Its goal is to protect and promote breastfeeding by ensuring that these products are marketed responsibly, without misleading mothers or influencing their feeding choices unfairly. The Code encourages health professionals and companies to avoid promoting substitutes in ways that could undermine breastfeeding's health benefits. While not legally binding, it serves as a global standard, prompting countries to develop their own laws and regulations aligned with its principles to support mothers and infant health.