Nestlé published its Leading the Way (pdf, 8Mb) report today outlining its commitment to the highest ethical standards in the marketing of infant formula. The report illustrates how the company continues to strengthen its compliance through enhanced systems, training and monitoring activities across all distribution channels, both online and offline.
Béatrice Guillaume-Grabisch, Executive Vice President and Group WHO Code Ombudsperson, said: "Compliance is about values, integrity and trust, which are crucial for building a successful and long-lasting organization. Looking to the future, we remain focused on strengthening our compliance measures through collaboration with our direct partners, including those in e-commerce."
Compliance with the Policy For Implementing the WHO Code (pdf, 5Mb) is mandatory. The report published today highlights the firm and swift actions taken when instances of non-compliance are confirmed, including disciplinary measures. Nestlé also encourages its employees and external stakeholders to share their concerns regarding its compliance anonymously on its Speak Up platform without the concern of retaliation.
This transparent reporting is integral to Nestlé's desire to make a significant and widespread contribution to the health and well-being of infants and young children, while upholding the highest possible standards in the marketing of infant formula.
Nestlé remains steadfast in protecting, promoting, and supporting exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life, followed by the introduction of appropriate complementary foods. The company takes this very seriously, and to that end, it has strengthened its Policy for Implementing the WHO Code. Nestlé's global policy prohibits the promotion of infant formula intended for babies less than 6 months in all countries as a minimum. Furthermore, in more than 160 countries, the company applies stricter rules and does not promote formula for babies aged 0-12 months as a minimum.
