New labelling rules for baby food, special diet food and low-calorie food

Rules on the labelling and content of baby milks and foods for special medical purposes will be better defined in order to protect consumers and distinguish more clearly between foods for normal consumption and foods for specific groups under legislation passed on 11 June 2013.
The new legislation simplifies and clarifies the rules on the labelling and the composition of infant formula and follow-on formula (for babies between 6 and 10 months), processed cereal-based food, food for special medical purposes and total diet replacement for weight control. It also includes an exclusive list of substances such as vitamins and minerals that can be added to these foods.
The labelling, presentation and advertising of infant formula and the labelling of follow-on formula must not "include pictures of infants, or other pictures or text which may idealise the use of such formula" in order "not to discourage breast-feeding", the rules say.
However, graphic representations intended for easy identification of the formula and for illustrating methods of preparation will still be permitted (Press Release European Parliament, 11 June 2013).