With over 40 years of human milk and formula milk research, we are also guided by the aims and principles of the World Health Organization (WHO) International Code of Marketing of Breastmilk Substitutes (the ‘WHO Code’) in how we setup and conduct our clinical research. We take the WHO Code very seriously, and put all measures in place not to interfere with a mother’s intention to breastfeed when participating in our formula milk clinical research.
When designing and conducting formula milk clinical studies, we always aim to position breastfeeding as the best source of nutrition for babies. Only those parents, who have already begun formula feeding, are eligible to receive formula milk as part of a clinical study. Parents participating in formula milk clinical studies receive an amount of formula milk as set out in the study protocol. In line with national and international guidelines, participants in formula milk clinical studies are not required to pay for the formula milk being tested in a study.
When carrying out research on our formula milks, it’s on scientific, transparent and factual grounds, with the aim of advancing knowledge and innovation on infant nutrition. That’s also why most of our clinical studies also include a breastfed reference group. All formula milk clinical research activities are conducted openly and transparently, after written approval from involved independent ethics committees and without any improper influence on clinical study participants, results or outcomes or in any way to influence the provision, supply, dispensing or promotion of any formula milk products. Our company’s Policy for the Marketing of Breast-milk Substitutes also applies to our formula milk clinical research procedures.
