Implementation of the Code of Marketing of Breast-Milk Substitutes in Vietnam: Marketing Practices by the Industry and Perceptions of Caregivers and Health Workers (Nutrients, 2021)

Journal article

Implementation of the Code of Marketing of Breast-Milk Substitutes in Vietnam: Marketing Practices by the Industry and Perceptions of Caregivers and Health Workers (Nutrients, 2021)

22 Aug 21

Author(s)Tuan T. Nguyen, Ha T. T. Tran, Jennifer Cashin, Van D. C. Nguyen, Amy Weissman, Trang T. Nguyen, Bridget Kelly, Roger Mathisen

Topic(s): BMS Code, Breastfeeding

Location: East Asia Pacific, Viet Nam

Language(s): English

Audience: Health and service providers, Policy makers and legislators, Program designers and implementers

Organization: Alive & Thrive

Programs: Policy advocacy, Strategic use of data

This study examined implementation of the Code of Marketing of Breast-Milk Substitutes (the Code) in Vietnam with a focus on marketing practices by the baby food industry and perceptions of caregivers, health workers, and policy makers. Results showed that facilities’ rules against BMS promotion are violated, formula representatives obtain mothers’ contact information at health facilities, and a large percentage of mothers had been exposed to BMS promotion. Findings point to a need for stronger enforcement of regulation policies in health facilities and digital platforms.

Implementation of the Code of Marketing of Breast-Milk Substitutes in Vietnam: Marketing Practices by the Industry and Perceptions of Caregivers and Health Workers