Global breastfeeding gains signal emerging opportunities for maternal health products and potential regulatory pressure on infant formula makers
Executive summary: The World Health Organization reported ongoing global progress in breastfeeding rates, while noting that many countries remain below their targets, and a recent study identified widespread misconceptions about breastfeeding. These trends affect maternal and child health markets, influence corporate policies on workplace lactation support, and may trigger regulatory attention on the marketing of breast-milk substitutes.
Who is involved: Key actors include the WHO, national health ministries, employers, infant formula manufacturers, and companies producing lactation support products.
Likely next: Expect increased advocacy for workplace lactation facilities, potential guidelines to counter misinformation, and growth in the lactation technology and support services sector.
The Handelsblatt article highlights WHO observations of rising breastfeeding prevalence globally, tempered by the fact that numerous nations lag behind established goals. A accompanying study points out common misunderstandings that may hinder further adoption. From a business perspective, the development signals shifting demand in maternal health products and potential regulatory focus on infant formula marketing.
Timeline
- — Weltstillwoche: Stillen nimmt weltweit zu - und könnte noch weiter zulegen (Handelsblatt)