RIYADH, Saudi Arabia — Breastfeeding lowers a child's risk of respiratory and digestive infections, avoids anaemia, obesity, and diabetes, and lowers the risk of several malignancies, infections, and Sudden Infant Death Syndrome, according to the Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) (SIDS).

It also helps the mother's uterus recover to normal size, maintains an optimal weight, minimizes weight gain, particularly after childbirth, and lowers the risk of ovarian and breast cancer, as well as osteoporosis.

Infant formula used from birth is safe for infants throughout their first year of life, according to the SFDA, and there is no need to switch from infant formula to follow-on milk.
After completing the first year, it is recommended to begin providing children whole milk from sterilized sources such as cow's milk and goat's milk, as well as appropriate supplementary meals.

According to the SFDA, there is no water designated for the preparation of breast-milk substitutes, but tap water or bottled drinking water can be used after boiling for a minute and allowing it to cool until it reaches a temperature of 70 degrees Celsius, and boiling water should not be done more than once.

The SFDA has released an awareness guide on breast-milk replacements, including the many types of manufactured substitutes, their main distinctions, their applications, preparation techniques, and the best ways to keep them.

The instructions also explained how to clean and sterilize the items used in the preparation, as well as provide an estimate of how much milk a newborn and toddler require on a daily basis.

Manufacturers and importers of breast-milk replacements are required by the SFDA to add words on the label that contain a clear, easy-to-read statement, such as "Breast milk is the best nourishment for your kid" or any similar language that supports nursing.

It was also required to include a statement stating that the product should only be used after consulting a specialist and only when absolutely necessary.

The SFDA also barred the use of images or visuals, as well as the placement of adverts or language on the label of these products that encourage their use and the discontinuation of nursing. It was also necessary to provide storage and preservation information on the package's label. — S.P.A.