IBFAN strongly supports the right to access to free and adequate healthcare. However, if UHC is to be effective, strong conflicts of interest safeguards are needed to prevent health harming commercial industries hijacking the process.

For oral heath, prevention starts with optimal early years feeding: breastfeeding and the avoidance of all ultra-processed products. Companies know exactly how to process raw ingredients to achieve sweetness while claiming products are sugar free. They know that sweetness is addictive and sets up taste preferences in children.

Marketing legislation must cover all formulas and related products marketed for infants and children, including plant-based formulas and bottles and teats.

Codex is starting new work on a standard for baby foods – many are high in free sugars. Member States must pay attention and send health delegates to Codex to ensure that WHO recommendations are followed.