American Academy of Pediatrics: Toddler Milk Unregulated and Unnecessary, Pose Nutritional Risks for Children Over 12 Months

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has issued a report declaring "toddler milk" or toddler formula unnecessary and not nutritionally complete, highlighting the lack of regulation in the U.S., where it doesn't have to meet the same nutritional standards as infant formulas.

This report calls attention to the longstanding issue of deceptive marketing and less-healthy formulations in the toddler milk market, and the AAP is pushing for regulatory action while aiming to provide more caregiver education on this matter.

AAP Calls Out Confusing Marketing of Toddler Milk

Toddler milk's rise in the market can be traced back to the history of infant formula and its political and marketing dynamics while infant formula has long been an alternative for breastfeeding. The acknowledged superiority of breast milk in terms of nutrition and immune development has fueled the debate around formula's role.

The formula boom in the mid-20th century was associated with various dangers, including infants suffering malnutrition due to improper use, particularly in lower-income communities.

In response to these issues, the World Health Organization (WHO) introduced guidelines in 1981 to restrict the marketing of infant formulas, and many countries enacted laws based on these recommendations, but the U.S. did not adopt additional marketing restrictions at that time.

Toddler milks, which are powdered drink mixes for children aged six months to three years, have emerged in the market with claims of improving brain and immune function.

AAP's report also highlights the confusing marketing practices of toddler milk brands, often co-located with infant formula products, where they are portrayed as a necessary "next stage." They recommend clear differentiation in marketing, labeling these products as distinct from infant formula.

Also, some changes such as distinct branding, banning the word "formula" on toddler milk labels, and separating them from infant formulas on store shelves, as well as adding a warning label indicating they are not for infant use.

However, it is uncertain whether substantial regulatory changes will occur soon, given potential opposition from Congress, but pressure from parents and physicians could encourage manufacturers to make some of these changes voluntarily.

Toddler Milk Deemed Unnecessary and Unsuitable

While infant formulas for babies up to 12 months must meet specific nutritional requirements, toddler milk remains unregulated by any government entity.

WHO has classified follow-up formulas like toddler milk as "unnecessary" and "unsuitable" for babies aged six months and older, citing excessive protein and inadequate zinc, iron, vitamin B, and essential fatty acids for proper growth and development.

Furthermore, there is a significant misconception among caregivers that these products provide essential nutrients not available elsewhere.

There are concerns about the health implications of toddler milks, including the potential to influence taste preferences in early childhood, leading to excessive sugar and sodium intake, which are linked to childhood obesity and poor cardiovascular health later in life. Therefore, public health experts emphasized the need for clear, accurate, and transparent labeling on such products.

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