The review has considered the nutritional role of young child formula, available scientific evidence, and regulatory approaches adopted in other international markets
Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) has called for public submissions on a proposal to develop a modernised regulatory framework for young child formula, commonly known as toddler milk.
Under Proposal P1066 – Review of young child formula, FSANZ is examining whether the Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code should be updated to ensure regulatory requirements for these products remain fit for purpose and align with their intended role as a special purpose food.
FSANZ CEO Dr Sandra Cuthbert said toddler milk products are increasingly marketed for use in young children’s diets, prompting questions about whether the current regulatory framework adequately reflects their supplementary role.
“Assessment to date indicates there is a need for greater regulatory clarity to ensure product composition, labelling and representation are consistent with the intended purpose of young child formula as a special purpose food,” Dr Cuthbert said.
According to FSANZ, the review has considered the nutritional role of young child formula, available scientific evidence, and regulatory approaches adopted in other international markets.
The agency is proposing a clearer and more targeted regulatory framework that would include revised compositional requirements and strengthened labelling measures aimed at supporting safe use, improving consumer information, and reducing the potential for confusion among parents and caregivers.
FSANZ said it is seeking feedback from consumers, healthcare professionals, industry stakeholders, enforcement agencies, and other interested parties to help shape the next stage of the review process, including whether draft regulatory measures should be developed.
The proposal reflects growing global attention on the regulation and marketing of toddler milk products as governments and public health authorities seek to ensure clearer nutritional guidance and greater transparency for consumers.
