Irregular practices in drugstores in the offer of products for children under three years old / Práticas irregulares em drogarias na oferta de produtos para crianças menores de três anos

ABSTRACT Objective: To analyze the compliance with the commercialization of children's products included in the Brazilian Code of Marketing of Infant and Toddlers Food and Childcare-Related Products (NBCAL) in drugstores in Uberlândia/MG. Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out in 143 drugstores that sold infant products: infant formula (IF), follow-up IF, nipples, teats, pacifiers and nipple shields; FI for young children, transition foods and cereal-based foods, fluid or powdered milk, modified/similar milks of plant origin and dairy compounds. The location of drugstores in the five geographic sectors was performed by geoprocessing. The data collected were: types of promotion and types of drugstore administration (drugstore chains/drugstores with independent administration). Irregular commercial promotion was expressed as absolute and relative frequencies. Results: Irregular commercial promotion was found in 11.7% of nipples, pacifiers and bottles, in 10.0% of IF and follow-up formula, in 9.5% of IF for young children, in 11.1% fluid or powdered milk, in 25.0% of transition foods and cereal-based foods and in 59.1% of dairy compounds. In commercial drugstore chains, the presence of promotion for dairy (81.8 vs. 28.6%, respectively) was higher than in drugstores with independent administration. The opposite ocurred for fluid or powdered milk, modified and similar milks of plant origin. The downtown and eastern sectors had the highest percentages of promotions (26%). Conclusions: NBCAL violations still occur in drugstores, mainly in the sale of young children's foods and in the commercial network drugstores.

RESUMO Objetivo: Analisar a conformidade da comercialização dos produtos infantis incluídos na Norma Brasileira de Comercialização de Alimentos para Lactentes e Crianças de Primeira Infância, Bicos, Chupetas e Mamadeira (NBCAL) e de compostos lácteos em drogarias de Uberlândia/MG. Métodos: Estudo transversal realizado em 143 drogarias que vendiam produtos infantis: fórmulas infantis (FI) para lactentes, FI de seguimento para lactentes, mamadeiras, bicos, chupetas e protetores de mamilo; FI para crianças de primeira infância, alimentos de transição e alimentos à base de cereais, leites fluidos/em pó, leites modificados/similares de origem vegetal e composto lácteo. A localização das drogarias nos cinco setores geográficos foi realizada por geoprocessamento. Os dados coletados foram: tipos de promoção comercial irregular e tipo de administração da drogaria (rede/independente). As promoções comerciais irregulares foram expressas em frequências absoluta e relativa. Resultados: Verificamos a presença de promoção comercial irregular em 11,7% dos bicos, chupetas e mamadeiras, em 10,0% das FI lactentes/seguimento de lactentes, em 9,5% das FI para crianças de primeira infância, em 11,1% dos leites, em 25,0% de alimentos de transição e em 59,1% dos compostos lácteos. Nas drogarias de rede, a presença de promoção comercial irregular foi maior para compostos lácteos (81,8 vs. 28,6%, respectivamente) e, para leites, foi maior nas drogarias independentes (30,8 vs. 6,0%). Os setores central e leste apresentaram os maiores percentuais de promoção comercial irregular (26%). Conclusões: As violações à NBCAL ainda ocorrem nas drogarias, principalmente para os produtos destinados às crianças de primeira infância, e nas drogarias de rede.

Tipos de leite consumidos durante o primeiro ano de vida e estado nutricional de lactentes do Sul do Brasil / Types of milk consumed during the first year of life and nutritional status of infants in Southern Brazil

Resumo Introdução A Organização Mundial da Saúde (OMS) recomenda o aleitamento materno exclusivo até o 6º mês de vida da criança e a sua manutenção com alimentação complementar até pelo menos os 2 anos de idade. Apesar da sua importância, a ingestão de substitutos do leite materno é altamente prevalente, sendo uma preocupação em saúde pública. Objetivo Avaliar a associação entre os tipos de leite ingeridos e o estado nutricional no primeiro ano de vida. Método Estudo longitudinal observacional com crianças brasileiras pertencentes a um estudo multicêntrico. Aos 3, 6, 9 e 12 meses de idade foram investigados os tipos de leite consumidos por meio de questionário de frequência alimentar (QFA) e foi realizada antropometria. As associações brutas e ajustadas foram avaliadas por intermédio de regressão linear. Resultados Das 2.965 duplas de mães-bebês rastreadas, 362 atenderam aos critérios e aceitaram participar do estudo (50% meninos). Aos 12 meses de idade, os maiores escores-z de peso para idade e de peso para comprimento foram observados nos meninos que consumiam apenas fórmula ou apenas leite de vaca. Os maiores escores-z de comprimento para idade foram encontrados entre as meninas que ingeriam apenas fórmula ou apenas leite de vaca aos 9 e 12 meses. Ambos foram comparados àqueles que ingeriam apenas leite materno nas mesmas idades. Conclusão Os tipos de leite consumidos associaram-se ao estado nutricional no primeiro ano de vida, sendo observadas diferenças entre os sexos. Os maiores índices antropométricos nas crianças que não recebiam leite materno chamam a atenção para a persistência futura desses desvios, em direção ao excesso de peso.

Abstract Introduction The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends exclusive breastfeeding up to the 6th month of life of the child and its maintenance with complementary feeding until at least 2 years of age. Despite its importance, the intake of breast milk substitutes is highly prevalent and a public health concern. Objective To evaluate the association between the types of milk ingested and nutritional status in the first year of life. Method Observational longitudinal study with Brazilian children from a multicentric study. At 3, 6, 9, and 12 months of age, the types of milk consumed were investigated using a food frequency questionnaire (FFQ), and anthropometric measurements were performed. Crude and adjusted associations were assessed by linear regression. Results Of the 2,965 pairs of mothers-babies screened, 362 met the criteria and accepted to participate in the study (50% of boys). At 12 months of age, higher weight-for-age and weight-for-length z-scores were observed in boys who consumed only formula or only cow's milk, compared to boys who consumed only breast milk. Higher length-for-age z-scores were found among girls who consumed only formula or only cow's milk at 9 and 12 months, compared to girls who consumed only breast milk at the same ages. Conclusion The types of milk consumed were associated with nutritional status during the first year of life, with differences between boys and girls. The higher anthropometric indexes in children who did not receive breastmilk call our attention to the persistence of such deviations toward excessive weight status in the future.

Risk assessment of dietary exposure to 3-monochloropropane-1,2-diol esters in infant formula powders in Shanghai / 环境与职业医学

Background Chloropropanol esters (MCPDE) have attracted much attention in recent years as a kind of new contaminant found in various refined oils. The pollution of 3-monochloropropane-1,2-diol esters (3-MCPDE) is the most prominent. 3-MCPDE is hydrolyzed in organisms to 3-monochloropropane-1,2-diol which has been shown to have reproductive toxicity, nephrotoxicity, and potential carcinogenicity. Infant formula powders can be polluted by 3-MCPDE when refined edible oils are added during production. Objective To assess the risk of exposure to 3-MCPDE related to the consumption of infant formula powders for children aged 0-3 years in Shanghai market using the food consumption data and the data of 3-MCPDE contamination in these foods. Methods Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry was used to determine 3-MCPDE in 133 samples of infant formula powders in Shanghai. Using a multistage stratified random sampling method, a total of 807 infants and toddlers aged 0-3 years were randomly selected from each district/rural/town in Shanghai, including 208 children aged 0-6 months, 276 children aged 6-12 months, and 323 children aged 12-36 months. The food consumption data was investigated using food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) distributed by combining telephone inquiries and face-to-face interviews among guardians. Population's probability distributions of 3-MCPDE exposure were assessed by @Risk 7.5 software and Monte Carlo simulation algorithm. According to the dietary intake assessment model and the tolerable daily intake (TDI) of 3-MCPDE of 2.00 μg·(kg·d)−1 proposed by the European Food Safety Authority (ESFA), a risk assessment of exposure to 3-MCPDE was conducted for infants and toddlers aged 0 to 3 years old in Shanghai who consumed 3-MCPDE via infant formula powders. Results The average concentration of 3-MCPDE in 133 samples of infant formula powders was 0.115 mg·kg−1 with a positive rate of 100.00%. Among different types of formula powders, infant formula powders for infants of 0-6 months had the highest concentrations of 3-MCPDE and fat [0.136 mg·kg−1 and 25.2 g (per 100 g sample) in average respectively]. There was a positive correlation between fat concentration and 3-MCPDE concentration in the samples (r=0.438, P<0.05). The average consumption of infant formula powders of 807 infants aged 0-3 years was 88.3 g·d−1. Among all investigated age groups, the average consumption of infant formula powders by infants aged 0-6, 6-12, and 12-36 months was 87.7, 98.3, and 80.1 g·d−1 respectively. The dietary exposure to 3-MCPDE from infant formula powders of infants aged 0-3 years averaged 0.83 μg·(kg·d)−1 for general intake level or valued 1.44 μg·(kg·d)−1 using the 95 percentile for high intake level. Exposure decreased with increasing age and was highest in infants 0-6 months of age, whose general and high intake levels were 1.41 and 2.34 μg·(kg·d)−1, respectively. The risk population defined with the exposure higher than the TDI proposed by EFSA were proportioned to be 13.90% and 0.50% in infants aged 0-6 months and 6-12 months respectively, indicating a risk that cannot be ignored, and no risk in infants aged 12-36 months. Conclusion Among the investigated infants aged 0-3 years in Shanghai, those aged 0-6 months are at a high risk of exposure to 3-MCPDE. In view of the sensitivity of infants to pollutant exposure, the risk of exposure to 3-MCPDE should be highly concerned.

Assessment of dietary exposure to nonylphenol in infant formula retailed in Shanghai / 上海预防医学

ObjectiveTo assess the health risk of dietary exposure to nonylphenol in infants aged 0-36 months through infant formula in Shanghai. MethodsA monitoring of nonylphenol pollution in infant formula was conducted in 2022. A total of 90 samples were obtained from maternal and infant stores， supermarkets， and online stores in Shanghai. Based on the daily consumption data of infant formula， a point assessment method was used to assess the dietary exposure to nonylphenol in infant formula. ResultsThe prevalence of nonylphenol in infant formula retailed in Shanghai was 95.6% （86/90）. The amount of nonylphenol varied from non-detected to 22.70 μg·kg-1， with the mean value of 8.47 μg·kg-1 and the P50 value of 7.77 μg·kg-1. The mean daily nonylphenol exposure （estimated by body weight） from infant formula in infants aged 0-6 months， 7-12 months and 13-36 months in Shanghai was 0.091， 0.068 and 0.054 μg·kg-1， respectively； furthermore， the P95 value of daily exposure （by body weight） was 0.228， 0.152 and 0.119 μg·kg-1， respectively. These amounts were much lower than the tolerable daily intake （TDI） of nonylphenol （by body weight 5 μg·kg-1）. ConclusionThe health risk of daliy nonylphenol intake from infant formula remains low among infants aged 0-36 months in Shanghai.

Factors associated with infant formula supplementation in Brazilian hospitals: a cross-sectional study

Abstract Objective To analyze the factors associated with infant formula supplementation in newborns referred to rooming-in in Brazilian hospitals. Method Cross-sectional study with data from 14,531 postpartum women and newborns obtained from the "Birth in Brazil" survey, conducted in 2011-2012. The analysis used a logistic regression model with a hierarchical approach. Results In total, 21.2% newborns received infant formula during hospital stay. After adjustment, the following factors were associated with the use of infant formula: maternal age ≥ 35 years (OR = 1.51; IC95%:1.30-1.75), prenatal care in a private service (OR = 2,22; IC:1.72-2.85)/public and private service (OR = 1.67; IC:1.24-2.23), cesarean delivery (OR = 1.83; IC:1.41-2.38), multiple pregnancy (OR = 3.786; IC:2.02-7.06), non-breastfeeding in the delivery room (OR = 1.780; IC:1.43-2.21), birth in a private hospital (OR = 1.695; IC:1.02-2.79), prematurity (OR = 1.656; IC:1.32-2.06) and extremes of birth weight (< 2.500 g: OR = 2.084; IC: 1.585-2.741/ ≥4,000g: OR = 1.672; IC:1.31-2.11). Teenage age (OR = 0.651; IC:0.55-0.76), low maternal education (OR = 0.579; IC:0.43-0.77), multiparity (OR = 0.588; IC:0.510-0.678), and lower economic class (OR = 0.565; IC:0.41-0.76) significantly reduced the probability of using infant formula. Conclusions Of the associated factors, the authors highlight cesarean delivery and non-breastfeeding in the delivery room, showing that it is necessary to strengthen policies that encourage good practices during childbirth care in order to promote exclusive breastfeeding and protect mothers and newborns from all social classes against the misuse of infant formula.

Breastfeeding in infants seen in private pediatric practices and its relation with type of delivery and history of prematurity

Abstract Objective: To describe the type of milk used to feed infants seen in private pediatric practices in Brazil. To evaluate the relationship between breastfeeding, type of delivery, and history of prematurity. Methods: This is a cross-sectional and observational study that included 4929 infants in the first year of life seen in private pediatric practices in the five geographic regions of Brazil. Mothers provided information about the type of milk used by their infant, the type of delivery (vaginal or cesarean), and whether the birth was premature. Results: Breastfeeding was the only source of milk for 56.1% (1546/2755) of infants in the first six months of life and 32.9% (716/2174) in the second. Of the infants who received other types of milk besides breastfeeding, there was a predominance of infant formula in 98.6% and 93.8% of the infants, respectively, in the first and in the second six months of life. Whole cow's milk was used by 0.7% (20/2755) of infants in the first six months and by 4.1% (90/2174) of infants in the second (p < 0.001). In the first six months of life, breastfeeding as the only type of milk was associated with vaginal delivery (OR = 1.79; p < 0.001) and not having a history of prematurity (OR = 2.48; p < 0.001). Conclusion: Breastfeeding was the only milk source for more than half of infants before 180 days of life. Birth by cesarean section and history of prematurity were negatively associated with breastfeeding as the only source of milk used in infant feeding.

Scientific research on breast milk underpins breastfeeding promotion actions / 中华围产医学杂志

This article is a summary of the Second China Breast Milk Science Conference, which was held in Beijing from August 5 to 7, 2022, with the theme of "Data sharing, method sharing and science sharing". The purpose of the conference is to summarize the latest progress in breast milk research, identify the unresolved issues, and jointly discuss the direction of future breast milk research. Firstly, we summarize the contents and purpose of breast milk scientific research and prospect of breast milk science. The second part focuses on the research status of breast milk composition and its health effects, and puts forward the future research direction. The third section focuses on the health effects of breastfeeding and scientific support and key aspects of breastfeeding promotion actions. The fourth part elaborates the specific methods of current scientific research of breast milk and emphasize the importance of method standardization and the idea of future methodological research. The fifth part consists of the strategy of feeding infants with medical conditions and ways to better promote the growth and development of these infants. The last part introduces the innovation, deficiencies, and future research directions of infant formula production technology in China. This conference demonstrate the importance of multidisciplinary communication, discussions and collaborations in clinical medicine, nutrition, perinatal health, food science, and policy-making in the scientific research of breast milk, and provides guidance for future multidisciplinary research on the physiology of lactation, the composition of breast milk, breastfeeding, and infants and young children nutrition.

Dietary exposure assessment of chlorate in infant formula / 上海预防医学

ObjectiveTo investigate chlorate contamination level in infant formula sold in Shanghai， and to evaluate the dietary exposure risk to infants in Shanghai. MethodsWith the risk monitoring data of chlorate in infant formula sold in Shanghai in 2020， combined with the dietary consumption data of infants， the dietary exposure of chlorate in infant formula was assessed via the point assessment method. ResultsIn 2020， the overall detection rate of chlorate in 120 infant formula samples was 98.3% （118/120）， the mean content was 124.5 μg⋅kg-1， the 50 percentile value was 64.6 μg⋅kg-1， and the maximum value was 1 475.0 μg⋅kg-1. The mean and 95 percentile value of daily chlorate intake from infant formula for infants aged 0‒36 months in Shanghai were 1.10 and 1.84 μg⋅kg-1， accounting for 36.7% and 61.3% of the tolerable daily intake （TDI） of chlorate （3μg⋅kg-1）， respectively. The mean， 50 percentile value and 95 percentile value of daily chlorate exposure of infants in different month-age groups （0‒6 months， 6‒12 months， 12‒36 months） through infant formula were lower than the TDI value. ConclusionThe health risk of daily chlorate intake from infant formula for infants and young children aged 0‒36 months in Shanghai is at an acceptable level.

Prevalence on the complement in offering food to newborns / Prevalência da oferta de complemento alimentar para o recém-nascido

Abstract Objectives: to identify the prevalence and determining factors of the complements in offering food to newborns. Methods: across-sectional study nested to a cohort study that assessed newborn care in four public maternity hospitals in Natal/Brazil. Sample was composed by 415 mothers and full-term newborns, with appropriate weight for gestational age and Apgar scores in 1st and 5th minutes ≥ 7. In order to analyze the determining factors, we used Poisson's regression. Results: from 415 newborns, 51.3% received feeding complements (57.6% in the first hour of life), of which 92% was infant formula. Only 50.7% of those complement in offering food were prescribed by physicians. Colostrum deficiency was the main reason to be indicated (33.8%). Maternal age ≤ 20 years old (PR=0.64; CI95%=0.47-0.86) and between 2030 years old (PR=0.70; CI95%=0.57-0.87)comparing to women older than 30 were shown as protective factors, while being primiparous (PR=1.37; CI95%=1.11-1.60) and had cesarean section (PR=1.2; CI95%=1.00-1.45) as risk factors. Conclusion: maternal characteristics are associated with the complement in offering food to the newborn in the first hours of life. The high prevalence shows the need for interventions that minimize the inadequate offer of infant formula and promote exclusive breastfeeding before hospital discharge.

Resumo Objetivos: identificar a prevalência e os fatores determinantes da oferta do complemento alimentar para o recém-nascido. Métodos: estudo transversal, aninhado a um estudo de coorte que avaliou a assistência ao neonato em quatro maternidades públicas de Natal/Brasil. Amostra composta de 415 mães, e recém-nascidos à termo, com peso adequado para idade gestacional e Apgar no 1º e 5º minuto ≥ 7. Para analisar os fatores determinantes, foi utilizado a regressão de Poisson. Resultados: dos 415 recém-nascidos, 51,3% receberam complemento (57,6% na primeira hora de vida), dos quais 92% com fórmula infantil. Destes, apenas 50,7% foi prescrito pelo médico. A deficiência de colostro foi o principal motivo de indicação (33,8%). A idade materna ≤ 20 anos (RP=0,64; IC95%=0,47-0,86) e entre 20-30 anos (RP=0,70; IC95%=0,57-0,87, em comparação com mulheres acima de 30 anos, mostrou-se como fator de proteção, enquanto ser primípara (RP=1,37; IC95%=1,11-1,60) e o parto cesárea (RP=1,2; IC95%=1,00-1,45) como fatores de risco. Conclusão: as características maternas e assistenciais estão associadas à oferta de complemento alimentar ao recém-nascido nas primeiras horas de vida. A alta prevalência mostra a necessidade de intervenções que minimizem a oferta inadequada de fórmula infantil, e promovam o aleitamento materno exclusivo antes da alta hospitalar.

Feeding practices and early weaning in the neonatal period: a cohort study

ABSTRACT OBJECTIVE To describe feeding practices and the risk factors for the mixed breastfeeding and early weaning in the neonatal period. METHODS Cohort study, which we collected socioeconomic, demographic, health care and feeding data from 415 mother/child binomials born in four public maternity hospitals in Natal/Brazil. They were followed-up at 48 hours, 7 and 28 days after birth. The association was established using Pearson's Chi-square test and Poisson's regression, after adjusting it to other variables. RESULTS The prevalence of mixed breastfeeding in the first 2 days was 47,2% and early weaning in 7 and 28 days was 8,4% and 16,2% in that order. The main reasons for mixed breastfeeding and early weaning were: colostrum deficiency (33.8%), difficulty in latching/sucking (23.5%) and "little milk" (70.0%). The use of formula/milk/porridge remained associated with maternal age ≤ 20 years (RR = 0.64; 95%CI: 0.47-0.86), age 20-29 years (RR = 0,70; 95%CI: 0,57-0,87), primiparity (RR = 1.37; 95%CI: 1.11-1.60) and cesarean delivery (RR = 1.20; 95%CI: 1.00-1.45) at 2 days; absence of paternal support (RR = 4.98; 95%CI: 2.54-9.79) and pacifier use (RR = 3.21; 95%CI: 1.63-6.32) at 7 days; and only pacifier use (RR = 2.48; 95%CI: 1.53-4.02) at 28 days. CONCLUSIONS Early weaning was associated with maternal and health care factors, thus suggesting the need to readjust good practices and educational actions to achieve the exclusive offer to the maternal breast in the neonatal period.

Breastfeeding versus free distribution of infant formulas by the Public Health System / Aleitamento materno versus distribuição gratuita de fórmulas infantis pelo Sistema Único de Saúde

ABSTRACT Objective: To characterize the situation of breastfeeding and the adequacy of prescription of infant formulas to infants assisted by a secondary care program of the Public Health System. Methods: This is a cross-sectional study with analysis of medical records of 350 infants from zero to 6 months, followed up between February to April 2019. Results: The possibility of breastfeeding was present in 97.0% of mothers and no infant presented an acceptable medical condition for proscription of breastfeeding. Despite this, only 47.2% of cases were on exclusive breastfeeding before being referred to the program. Regarding the reasons for the introduction of infant formulas, complementation to breast milk was the most present (75.8%), followed by mothers returning to the job market (20.1%). The general rates of inadequacy of those prescribed were 65% before arriving at the program, increasing to 69% (standard formulas) and 80% (formulas for special purposes) during follow-up. Conclusion: The low rate of exclusive breastfeeding and the indiscriminate prescription of infant formulas are a concern for damage to maternal-child healthcare and sound finances of the Public Health System.

RESUMO Objetivo: Caracterizar a situação de aleitamento materno e da adequação de prescrição de fórmulas infantis a lactentes assistidos por um programa de Atenção Secundária do Sistema Único de Saúde. Métodos: Trata-se de estudo transversal pela análise de prontuários de 350 lactentes de zero a 6 meses, acompanhados entre fevereiro a abril de 2019. Resultados: A possibilidade de aleitamento materno esteve presente em 97,0% das mães, e nenhum lactente apresentou condição médica aceitável para a proscrição do aleitamento materno. Apesar disso, apenas 47,2% dos casos estavam em aleitamento materno exclusivo antes do encaminhamento ao programa. Em relação aos motivos da introdução das fórmulas infantis, a complementação ao leite materno foi o mais presente (75,8%), seguido da volta da mãe ao mercado de trabalho (20,1%). As taxas gerais de inadequação dentre os prescritos foram de 65% antes da chegada ao programa, passando para 69% (fórmulas padrão) e 80% (fórmulas para fins especiais) durante o acompanhamento. Conclusão: A baixa taxa de aleitamento materno exclusivo e a prescrição indiscriminada de fórmulas infantis são preocupantes por causar prejuízos à saúde maternoinfantil e financeira do Sistema Único de Saúde.

Maternal Determinants of Feeding Practices among Children Under Two Years in Sleman District, Yogyakarta, Indonesia

@#Introduction: Optimum feeding practices can help children under two years old achieve a pivotal period of growth, health, behaviour and intellectual development. However, suboptimal feeding practices are still found in developing countries, and are influenced by maternal factors. We aim to investigate maternal education, employment, age, and feeding practices among children under two years old in Sleman District, Yogyakarta, Indonesia. Methods: The study was a cross-sectional design involving 388 mothers who had 0–24 months old children. The subjects were taken from the Sleman Health and Demographic Surveillance System, Faculty of Medicine, Public Health, and Nursing, Universitas Gadjah Mada in 2019. The association between maternal determinants and feeding practice was analyzed using fisher’s exact and chi-square test. Results: 21.1% of children were started on infant formula at 0–6 months old. The first initiation of fruits, milk enriched porridge, and soft foods was mainly in 6–9 months old infants (63.1%; 46.6%; 49.0%), once (74.7%), twice (48.8%) and three times daily (46.1%), respectively. 30.9% of children had been given solid foods in >12 months old, three times daily (66.3%). There was a significant association between maternal employment to the first initiation and the daily frequency of infant formula (p<0.001 and p=0.008), maternal education to the daily frequency of fruits (p=0.020) and soft foods (p=0.013) feeding. Conclusion: Maternal education and employment are associated with feeding practices among children under two years old. Education on child feeding is recommended to increase their practice.

Analysis on unqualified items of infant formula food by supervision and sampling inspection in China / 上海预防医学

Objective:To describe the unqualified situation of infant formula food by supervision and sampling inspection in China， and then recommend appropriate countermeasures. Methods:The results of supervision and sampling inspection of infant formula food were summarized from 2015 through 2020 in China， and the unqualified items were classified and analyzed. Results:From 2015 through 2020， a total of 30 252 batches of infant formula food were sampled and examined in China， in which 187 batches were determined to be unqualified with an overall unqualified rate of 0.62% （187/30 252）. Content of items in 82 batches of samples did not meet the national standards for food safety， accounting for 43.85% （82/187） of the total number of unqualified batches. Labels in 105 batches were unqualified， accounting for 56.15% （105/187）. Generally， the unqualified rate of infant formula food showed an overall downward trend over years， with a 1.8% of decrease between 2020 （0.03%） and 2015 （1.83%）. The main problems in the unqualified infant formula food in China were minerals， vitamins， optional ingredients， microorganisms and conventional nutrients， which accounted for 39.50% （94/238）， 15.97% （38/238）， 14.29% （34/238）， 10.50% （25/238） and 10.08% （24/238） of the total unqualified items， respectively. Conclusion:Food manufacturers should strictly implement the principal responsibility of food safety， and government regulatory sectors should continue to strengthen the supervision to ensure the quality and safety of infant formula food.

Cytotoxic and genotoxic potential of industrialized powdered milk for infants and young children

This study aimed to evaluate the cytotoxicity and genotoxicity and determine the LC50 concentration of powdered infant formulas widely marketed in South American countries. To this, milk samples, called as A, B, C and D, were analyzed in root meristem cells of Allium cepa, at concentrations of 0.075; 0.15 and 0.30 g mL-1, for 24 and 48 hours; and through cell viability in culture of normal line cells, via MTT test, for 24 hours, in the concentrations 0.018; 0.0375; 0.075 and 0.15 g mL-1. In A. cepa, all dairy products in the three concentrations caused significant inhibition of cell division in the meristems within the first 24 hours of exposure. In the in vitro evaluation, all milk formulas at 0.15 g mL-1, as well as milk A at a concentration of 0.037 g mL-1, C at 0.075 g mL-1 and D at 0.037 g mL-1, significantly reduced the cellular viability of the cell culture exposed to the foods studied, being potentially toxic. The milk A was considered the most toxic, with LC50 of 0.031 g mL-1, and B as the least toxic, with LC50 of 0.15 g mL-1. Therefore, the milk evaluated caused significant instability in cells of the test systems used and were characterized as cytotoxic.

Illegal commercial promotion of products competing with breastfeeding / Promoção comercial ilegal de produtos que competem com o aleitamento materno

ABSTRACT OBJECTIVE To assess if the commercialization of infant formulas, baby bottles, bottle nipples, pacifiers and nipple protectors is performed in compliance with the Norma Brasileira de Comercialização de Alimentos para Lactentes e Crianças de Primeira Infância e de Produtos de Puericultura Correlatos (NBCAL - Brazilian Code of Marketing of Infant and Toddlers Food and Childcare-related products). The commercial promotion of these products is prohibited by the Law 11,265. METHOD Cross-sectional study conducted in 2017 through a census of all pharmacies, supermarkets and department stores that sold products covered by NBCAL in the South Zone of Rio de Janeiro. Health professionals trained at NBCAL used structured electronic form for direct observation of establishments and for interviews with their managers. We created indicators to evaluate commercial practices and performed descriptive analyses. RESULTS A total of 352 commercial establishments were evaluated: 240 pharmacies, 88 supermarkets and 24 department stores, of which 88% sold products whose promotion is prohibited by NBCAL. Illegal commercial promotions were found in 20.3% of the establishments that sold the products we investigated: 52 pharmacies (21.9%), four supermarkets (7.5%) and seven department stores (33.3%). The most frequent commercial promotion strategies were discounts (13.2%) and special exposures (9.3%). The products with the highest prevalence of infractions of NBCAL were infant formulas (16.0%). We interviewed 309 managers of commercial establishments; 50.8% reported unfamiliarity with the law. More than three-quarters of the managers reported having been visited at the establishments by commercial representatives of companies that produce infant formulas. CONCLUSION More than a fifth of commercial establishments promoted infant formulas, baby bottles and nipples, although this practice has been banned in Brazil for thirty years. We think it is necessary to train those managers. Government agencies must monitor commercial establishments in order to inhibit strategies of persuasion and induction to sales of these products, ensuring mothers' autonomy in the decision on the feeding of their children.

RESUMO OBJETIVO Avaliar se a comercialização de fórmulas infantis, mamadeiras, bicos, chupetas e protetores de mamilo é realizada em cumprimento com a Norma Brasileira de Comercialização de Alimentos para Lactentes e Crianças de Primeira Infância e de Produtos de Puericultura Correlatos (NBCAL). A promoção comercial desses produtos é proibida pela Lei 11.265. MÉTODOS Estudo transversal conduzido em 2017 por meio de um censo de todas as farmácias, supermercados e lojas de departamento que comercializavam produtos abrangidos pela NBCAL na Zona Sul do Rio de Janeiro. Profissionais de saúde capacitados na NBCAL utilizaram formulário eletrônico estruturado para observação direta dos estabelecimentos e para entrevista com seus responsáveis. Foram criados seis indicadores de avaliação das práticas comerciais e realizadas análises descritivas. RESULTADOS Foram avaliados 352 estabelecimentos comerciais: 240 farmácias, 88 supermercados e 24 lojas de departamento, dos quais 88% comercializavam produtos cuja promoção é proibida pela NBCAL. Foram encontradas promoções comerciais ilegais em 20,3% daqueles que comercializavam os produtos investigados: 52 farmácias (21,9%), quatro supermercados (7,5%) e sete lojas de departamento (33,3%). As estratégias de promoção comercial mais frequentes foram os descontos (13,2%) e as exposições especiais (9,3%). Os produtos com maior prevalência de infrações à NBCAL foram as fórmulas infantis (16,0%). Foram entrevistados 309 responsáveis por estabelecimentos comerciais, 50,8% relatando não conhecer a lei. Mais de três quartos dos responsáveis relataram receber visitas nos estabelecimentos de representantes comerciais de empresas fabricantes de fórmulas infantis. CONCLUSÃO Mais de um quinto dos estabelecimentos comerciais faziam promoção comercial de fórmulas infantis para lactentes, mamadeiras e bicos, apesar de essa prática ser proibida no Brasil há trinta anos. É necessária a capacitação dos seus responsáveis. Os órgãos governamentais devem realizar fiscalização dos estabelecimentos comerciais para coibir estratégias de persuasão e indução à vendas desses produtos, garantindo às mães autonomia na decisão sobre a alimentação de seus filhos.

Compliance of infant formula promotion on websites of Brazilian manufacturers and drugstores

ABSTRACT OBJECTIVE To verify the compliance with Law No. 11,265/2006 in the promotion strategies for infant formula in Brazilian websites of manufacturers and drugstore networks. METHODS This was a cross-sectional study conducted in 2017. We analyzed the compliance to attributes of the Law No.11,265/2006 (Law for Marketing of Foods for Infants and Toddlers, Feeding Bottles, Teats and Pacifiers) in five websites of infant formula manufacturers and nine websites of drugstore networks. The main attributes assessed were: the presence of drawings or representations of children, the presence of warning statements displayed in conspicuous and prominent spaces informing if products are intended for infants aged under or over 6 months, the adequate display of infant formulas/similar products, and the presence of pop-ups with other infant formulas or links to websites for children's products. All compliances and non compliances verified were described in absolute and relative frequencies. RESULTS We verified that 80% of the websites of infant formula manufacturers displayed advertisements for other children's food products. The main non compliance in infant formula manufacturer's websites was the absence of warning statements about products intended for infants over 6 months of age. Only 33% of the drugstores' websites complied with Law No. 11,265/2006. The main non compliances in these websites were the absence of warning statements on products intended for infants over 6 months of age (100%), the presence of pop-up advertisements for other infant foods (77%) and the presence of advertisements for other children's food products (92%). CONCLUSION We identified non compliances with the Law No. 11,256/2006 in almost all websites of infant formula manufacturers and in all the websites of drugstore networks. Most promotion strategies were found at drugstore websites, which are the main channels for online sales.

Mothers living with HIV: replacing breastfeeding by infant formula / Madres viviendo con VIH: la sustitución de la lactancia por una fórmula láctea infantil / Mães vivendo com HIV: a substituição do aleitamento por fórmula láctea infantil

ABSTRACT Objective: To explore factors that interact and shape the meaning and experience of mothers of HIV-exposed children in relation to replacing breastfeeding by infant formula. Method: A qualitative study was carried out with 23 mothers living with HIV, whose children were up to 18 months of age and under follow-up in a specialized care service. Symbolic Interactionism, semi-structured interviews and content analysis were adopted as theoretical framework. Results: The social symbols of breastfeeding, the (un)availability of the milk formula and the (lack of)support of health professionals influenced the mothers' experience with formula feeding. Social, cultural and economic constraints have proved capable of undermining the conditions necessary for the replacement of breastfeeding. Final considerations: The availability of infant formula, access to lactation inhibitor and quality of health services still represent challenges to eradicate new HIV infections in children.

RESUMEN Objetivo: Explorar los factores que interactúan y moldean el significado y la experiencia de madres de niños expuestos al VIH en relación a la sustitución de la lactancia por una fórmula láctea infantil. Método: Estudio cualitativo, con 23 madres viviendo con VIH, cuyos hijos tenían hasta 18 meses de edad y estaban bajo seguimiento en servicio de asistencia especializada. Se adoptaron el Interaccionismo Simbólico como referencial teórico, entrevistas semiestructuradas y el análisis de contenido. Resultados: Los símbolos sociales de la lactancia, la (in) disponibilidad de la fórmula láctea y el (des) apoyo de los profesionales de la salud influenciaron a la experiencia de las madres con la alimentación por una fórmula láctea. Los cercos sociales, culturales y económicos se mostraron capaces de perjudicar las condiciones necesarias para la sustitución de la lactancia materna. Consideraciones finales: La disponibilidad de la fórmula láctea infantil, el acceso al inhibidor de la lactancia y la calidad de los servicios de salud todavía representan desafíos para eliminar nuevas infecciones por el VIH en niños.

RESUMO Objetivo: Explorar os fatores que interagem e moldam o significado e a experiência de mães de crianças expostas ao HIV em relação à substituição do aleitamento por fórmula láctea infantil. Método: Estudo qualitativo, com 23 mães vivendo com HIV, cujos filhos tinham até 18 meses de idade e estavam sob acompanhamento em serviço de assistência especializado. Foram adotados o Interacionismo Simbólico como referencial teórico, entrevistas semiestruturadas e análise de conteúdo. Resultados: Os símbolos sociais da amamentação, a (in)disponibilidade da fórmula láctea e o (des)apoio dos profissionais de saúde influenciaram a experiência das mães com a alimentação por fórmula láctea. Cerceamentos sociais, culturais e econômicos mostraram-se capazes de prejudicar as condições necessárias para a substituição do aleitamento materno. Considerações finais: A disponibilidade da fórmula láctea infantil, o acesso ao inibidor de lactação e a qualidade dos serviços de saúde ainda representam desafios para eliminar novas infecções pelo HIV em crianças.

Dosage-Related Prebiotic Effects of Inulin in Formula-Fed Infants / 대한소아소화기영양학회지

PURPOSE: The aim of this study was to identify the minimally meaningful dosage of inulin leading to a prebiotic effect in Indonesian infants. METHODS: In a randomized controlled double-blinded, parallel, 3-arm intervention study, 164 healthy formula-fed infants aged 3 to 5 months first obtained formula-A (without inulin) during a 4-week adaptation period. Subsequently, 142 subjects were subjected to a 4-week feeding period by administering either formula-A (no inulin), formula-B (0.2 g/100 mL inulin) or formula-C (0.4 g/100 mL inulin). The primary outcome parameter was %-bifidobacteria in faecal samples determined using quantitative polymerase chain reaction analyses. Secondary outcome parameters were faecal %-lactobacilli, pH and stool frequency, and consistency. Growth and tolerance/adverse effects were recorded as safety parameters. RESULTS: Typical %-bifidobacteria and %-lactobacilli at the end of the adaptation period in the study population were 14% and 2%, respectively. For faecal pH, significant differences between formula groups A vs. C and A vs. B were found at the end of the intervention period. Testing for differences in faecal %-bifidobacteria and %-lactobacilli between groups was hampered by non-normal data set distributions; no statistically significant differences were obtained. Comparisons within groups revealed that only in formula group C, all the three relevant parameters exhibited a significant effect with an increase in faecal %-bifidobacteria and %-lactobacilli and a decrease in pH. CONCLUSION: A consistent prebiotic effect along with a decrease in pH and increase in %-bifidobacteria and %-lactobacilli was found only in the group administered 0.4 g inulin/100 mL.

Recomendaciones sobre la utilización de las fórmulas infantiles con proteína aislada de soya en la alimentación del lactante. Documento de posición basado en la evidencia / Recommendations on the use of infant formulas with isolated soy protein in infant feeding. Evidence-Based Position Paper

Antecedentes: Las fórmulas a base de proteína de soya (FBPS) se han utilizado desde hace tiempo como una alternativa para lactantes con requerimientos nutricionales especiales. Sin embargo, las indicaciones médicas para su uso, su alergenicidad, seguridad y eficacia aún son controvertidas. Objetivo: Presentar recomendaciones del uso de FBPS basadas en la literatura existente. Métodos: Se realizó la consulta de revisiones sistemáticas y guías de práctica clínica, por medio de algoritmos de búsqueda validados, y sistemas como AGREE (Appraisal of Guidelines for REsearch and Evaluation) II y PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses). Para la elaboración de las recomendaciones clínicas se analizaron y discutieron los tópicos de mayor importancia, por parte de los investigadores responsables y el grupo de expertos del desarrollo de un documento de posición. Se evaluó la calidad de la evidencia utilizando el sistema GRADE (Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation). Resultados: Se encontraron distintos reportes con calidad de evidencia variable que sustentan la eficacia de las FBPS en el manejo de la alergia a la proteína de la leche de vaca y en la tolerancia digestiva del lactante, así como su baja alergia cruzada en comparación a la leche de vaca y otras fórmulas. También se encontraron otros estudios que indican la seguridad de las FBPS sobre distintos parámetros nutricionales, inmunitarios y de desarrollo. Existe además evidencia que demuestra que las FBPS tienen ventajas importantes en cuestión de costo-beneficio, palatabilidad y efectos sobre la microbiota intestinal, en comparación con otras fórmulas. Conclusiones: Aunque existe evidencia limitada para recomendar su utilización en los trastornos digestivos funcionales, las FBPS tienen un perfil de seguridad adecuado y continúan siendo una opción válida para la alimentación del lactante.

Abstract Background: Soy infant formulas (SIF) have long been used as an alternative for infants with special nutritional requirements. However, the medical indications for their use, their allergenicity, safety and efficacy are still controversial. Objective: To present recommendations for the use of SIF based on the existing literature. Methods: We consulted systematic reviews and clinical practice guides, through validated search algorithms, and systems such as Appraisal of Guidelines for REsearch and Evaluation (AGREE)II and Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA). For the elaboration of the clinical recommendations, the most important topics were analyzed and discussed by the responsible researchers and the group of experts in the development of a position paper. The quality of the evidence was evaluated using the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) system. Results: Several reports with variable quality of evidence were found. They support SIF’s efficacy in the management of cow’s milk allergy and infant’s digestive tolerance, as well as its low cross allergy compared to cow’s milk and other formulas. We also found other studies that indicate the safety of SIFs on different nutritional, immune and developmental parameters. There is also evidence that demonstrates that SIFs have important advantages in terms of cost-benefit, palatability and effects on the intestinal microbiota, compared to other formulas. Conclusions: Although evidence to recommend its use in functional digestive disorders is limited, SIFs have an adequate safety profile and are still a valid option for infant feeding.

Análise de rótulos de fórmulas lácteas infantis / Analysis of Labels of Children's Dairy Formulas

Objetivo: O presente estudo teve por finalidade analisar os rótulos de fórmulas lácteas infantis comercializados em um município do Estado do Maranhão. Metodologia: Trata-se de um estudo transversal, descritivo exploratório de abordagem quantitativa. As amostras foram definidas com base na RDC nº. 222/02, incluindo três grupos de interesse: Fórmulas infantis para lactentes; Fórmulas infantis de seguimento para lactentes e crianças de primeira infância e Fórmula infantil para neces-sidades dietoterápicas específicas. Resultados: No final da coleta encontrou-se 44 produtos, onde nenhuma das fórmulas lácteas analisadas conseguiu 100% de adequação. De maneira geral, a rotulagem de alimentos embalados atendeu ao que é designado na legislação na maioria dos parâmetros avaliados, onde as informações contidas nos rótulos desses produtos estavam adequadas, no entanto, quanto a RDC nº. 222/01, 29,5% dos produtos, apresentaram irregularidades. Ocorreu grande inadequação quanto aos micronutrientes, onde a maior irregularidade foi referente ao ácido pantotênico (81,7%). Os re-sultados demonstram maior atenção das indústrias de alimentos destinados a lactentes e crianças de primeira infância, quanto aos requisitos exigidos pelas normas de rotulagem geral do que com relação às legislações específicas. Conclusão: Diante do exposto, conclui-se que os objetivos do presente estudo foram alcançados com êxito, onde todos os produtos apresentavam irregularidades frente a legislação. (AU)

Objective: The purpose of this study was to analyze labels of infant formula sold in a municipality in the state of Maranhão. Methodology: This is a cross-sectional, exploratory descriptive study with a quantitative approach. Samples were defined on the basis of RDC No. 222/02, including three interest groups: infant formulas for infants; Infant follow-up formulas for infants and toddlers and Infant formula for specific dietary needs. Results: At the end of the collection, 44 products were found, where none of the analyzed milk formulas achieved 100% adequacy. In general, the labeling of packaged foods met what is designated in the legislation in most of the parameters evaluated, where the information contained in the labels of these products were adequate, however, for RDC nº 222/01, 29.5% of the products, presented irregularities. There was great inadequacy regarding micronutrients, where the greatest irregularity was related to pantothenic acid (81.7%). The results show greater attention from the food industries for infants and young children regarding the requirements of general labeling rules than specific legislation. Conclusion: In view of the above, it is concluded that the objectives of the present study were suc-cessfully achieved, where all products presented irregularities against the legislation. (AU)