A discussion paper on complementary feeding titled "What is complementary feeding? A philosophical reflection to help a policy process" by Gabrielle Palmer.

--------------------------------------------------
The IBFAN network has a 30-year experience of campaigns on breastfeeding and the regulation of marketing of breastmilk substitutes.

Relatively recently, generated to some extent by the concerns over the promotion of market-led approaches to solve nutritional problems related to inappropriate complementary feeding, a broad ranging debate has started within and outside the network.

In the course of the debate, we came to realise, that - as with the promotion of breastfeeding 30 years ago - although we all care passionately about infant welfare, we may not share the same assumptions about what is, and what is not, adequate and appropriate complementary feeding.

We feel that there is an urgent need for clarification of what complementary feeding and foods mean. We need to understand how the feeding of older infants and young children can be improved. The drive for clear definitions of terms may be seen as pedantic by some but, just as with breastfeeding, such a process is likely to get support from those who argue that no robust research and consensus can be achieved until exact and understandable terms are agreed.

To contribute towards building our common understanding and positions, we asked Gabrielle Palmer to write this paper which differs from most policy and technical documents on the subject. The aim of this document is to present information that will put the situation in a different perspective and to raise points that are unconventional in the current debate.

We are happy to share this document as we believe that a considered and unpressured process of thinking is needed to help us better understand each other and to achieve a confident and realistic approach to the creation of policies and strategies. Please enjoy reading it and then let us work together to clarify our thoughts, ideas and positions, and to speak the same 'complementary feeding language'.

Taking on this issue with a commitment to success might be difficult.  We believe that sustainable, affordable solutions already exist, but these may be challenged by market forces which may place private profit above public health. We must be clear that adequate and appropriate complementary feeding can only flourish where the right to food and food security is protected at a political level. It is thus at that level that it must be addressed.

PDF document: What is complementary feeding? A philosophical reflection to help a policy process