Joint SNE-EDA statement following Working group of the Advisory group on the future of young-child formula

Specialised Nutrition Europe (SNE) representing EU infant and young children foods manufacturers and the European Dairy Association (EDA) representing EU dairy processors, attended the Advisory Group meeting organised by the European Commission on the future regulatory options for young-child formula. The meeting took place on 19 September and was attended by several EU stakeholders (industry associations, NGOs, etc.).

Our organisations welcome that the European Commission has given the opportunity for open discussions on the presented regulatory options. We are pleased that a majority of participants agreed that specific rules for young-child formula are needed at European level, acknowledging that such foods meet the very specific nutritional and safety needs of young children aged 1-3 years.

Our organisations look forward to providing the European Commission with written comments by the set deadline of 30 September 2014.

For more information:

- Aurélie Perrichet, SNE Executive Director ()

- Alexander Anton, EDA Secretary General ()

Notes to editors:

• On 20 July 2016, Directive 2009/39/EC, also known as “PARNUTs” Directive, will be repealed with the entry into force of Regulation (EU) 609/2013 on Foods for Specific Groups (FSG).

• According to Article 12 of this Regulation, the Commission shall present a report on the necessity, if any, of special provisions for milk-based drinks and similar products intended for young children (by 20 July 2015).

• In its opinion on the nutrient requirements and dietary intakes of infants and young children in October 2013, EFSA concluded that “Fortified formulae, including young-child formula, are one of several means to increase n-3 PUFA, iron, vitamin D and iodine intakes in infants and young children living in Europe with inadequate or at risk of inadequate status of these nutrients."

• In its recent EFSA opinion (July 2014), EFSA specified that “Young-child formula is the term proposed by the Panel for formulae intended for young children”.

• Young-child formula are designed to meet the needs of young children aged 1-3 years as part of a mixed diet based on family foods. Like follow-on formula, they should not be used as a breast milk substitute before six months.

You can download the Joint SNE-EDA statement here.