Thailand’s effort to curb formula advertising - aimed at protecting maternal and child health - faced a powerful adversary as U.S. trade officials and formula companies intervened.
Heather Vogell investigates for ProPublica.
In short:
- U.S. trade officials collaborated with formula producers to challenge Thailand’s proposed restrictions on formula advertising, fearing it could discourage breastfeeding.
- Amid international pressure and political maneuvering, Thailand modified its stance, allowing toddler formula marketing while infant formula ads remained regulated.
- The regulation changes were criticized by health experts for not adequately protecting children and mothers, as aggressive marketing practices continue to influence parental choices.
Key quote:
"Our law is really weak and enforcement is really weak."
— Dr. Siriwat Tiptaradol, former adviser to Thailand’s health minister
Why this matters:
Globally, there have been concerted efforts to regulate baby formula more strictly to ensure it meets high nutritional standards and is marketed in a way that supports public health goals. However, the United States government has often found itself at odds with these global regulatory efforts. Critics argue that the U.S., influenced by powerful baby formula manufacturers, has worked to weaken international resolutions aimed at restricting the marketing of formula.
The feds aren't adequately protecting the public from harmful chemicals—but consumer power and civic engagement go a long way in protecting kids.
