WHO warns against melamine contamination in milk products
New Delhi: In view of reports about the melamine contaminated milk leading to death of infants in China, World Health Organisation has alerted South East Asian countries against possible dangers of distribution and consumption of melamine-contaminated milk products leading to serious health hazards.
Contaminated batches of infant formula or other milk-containing pro
ducts such as biscuits, chocolates and snack food have reportedly been exported to Member States in South-East Asia, posing a serious public health risk, especially to infants, WHO South East Asia Regional Office pointed out.
WHO has recommended that countries set standards for maximum limits of melamine content in food products. A surveillance case definition based on clinical manifestations, key diagnostic criteria (notably ultrasound examination features) and guidelines on differential diagnosis, clinical treatment and necessary medical follow-up have also been provided to Member States.
WHO recommends exclusive breastfeeding for all infants for the first six months of their lives. No other liquid or food, not even water, is needed during this period. Thereafter, infants should receive adequate and safe supplementary foods, while breastfeeding can continue up to two years of age and beyond, it said.
Replacing powdered infant formula with other products such as condensed milk, honey mixed with milk, or fresh milk is not recommended as this could compromise safety and nutrition.
WHO-SEARO is taking steps to support Member States in dealing with the issue. Information on reported and confirmed contaminated products, including a compilation of official test results obtained through the International Food Safety Authorities Network (INFOSAN) , has been shared with all Member States. [From Internet]
Contaminated batches of infant formula or other milk-containing pro
ducts such as biscuits, chocolates and snack food have reportedly been exported to Member States in South-East Asia, posing a serious public health risk, especially to infants, WHO South East Asia Regional Office pointed out.WHO has recommended that countries set standards for maximum limits of melamine content in food products. A surveillance case definition based on clinical manifestations, key diagnostic criteria (notably ultrasound examination features) and guidelines on differential diagnosis, clinical treatment and necessary medical follow-up have also been provided to Member States.
WHO recommends exclusive breastfeeding for all infants for the first six months of their lives. No other liquid or food, not even water, is needed during this period. Thereafter, infants should receive adequate and safe supplementary foods, while breastfeeding can continue up to two years of age and beyond, it said.
Replacing powdered infant formula with other products such as condensed milk, honey mixed with milk, or fresh milk is not recommended as this could compromise safety and nutrition.
WHO-SEARO is taking steps to support Member States in dealing with the issue. Information on reported and confirmed contaminated products, including a compilation of official test results obtained through the International Food Safety Authorities Network (INFOSAN) , has been shared with all Member States. [From Internet]
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