The purpose of regulations related to the information provided about food is to educate the consumers and to protect them against health hazards and financial losses. Labelling shall provide enough information to make it possible for the consumer to make informed choices in the purchase situation and select products that are suitable to them. The Food Information Regulation (1169/2011) that stipulates in general on the food information provided to consumers also applies to infant formulae and follow on formulae. In addition, it has been considered necessary to lay down for these products specific labelling requirements to safeguard a vulnerable group of consumers and to promote and protect breast feeding.
The following aspects of infant formulae and follow on formulae are discussed in more detail on the following pages:
- mandatory labelling
- nutrition labelling
- claims and marketing
- distance selling