In the bustling aisles of the formula section, parents may come across toddler "milk" promising benefits like improved brain development or immune function, but behind these claims lies a largely unregulated market with science yet to back up its bold promises.
Heather Vogell reports for ProPublica.
In short:
- Toddler milk, aimed at children 1-3 years old, makes unproven health claims, despite being a $20 billion industry.
- The U.S. has been instrumental in stymieing international efforts to regulate the marketing of these products.
- Unlike infant formula, toddler milk lacks strict regulation in the U.S., leading to criticism from health authorities.
Key quote:
“Formula milk marketing, not the product itself, disrupts informed decision-making and undermines breastfeeding and child health.”
— WHO and UNICEF report
Why this matters:
While toddler formulas are marketed with various health claims, experts advise parents to approach these products with skepticism. The best approach to toddler nutrition is a balanced diet of solid foods, which naturally provide the nutrients necessary for healthy development. Parents and caregivers are encouraged to consult healthcare providers for personalized advice on their child's dietary needs, rather than relying solely on marketing claims.
