Nestlé boycott

Nestlé Boycott is a global movement that began in the late 1970s in response to the Swiss multinational corporation Nestlé's aggressive marketing of infant formula in less economically developed countries. The boycott has been coordinated by the International Baby Food Action Network (IBFAN) and other non-governmental organizations, and it continues to this day in various forms around the world.

Background

The Nestlé boycott was initiated in response to concerns about Nestlé's marketing practices, particularly in less economically developed countries. The company was accused of promoting its infant formula as a superior alternative to breastfeeding, despite evidence to the contrary. This led to a decrease in breastfeeding rates and an increase in infant mortality and malnutrition in these countries.

The Boycott

The boycott began in the United States in 1977, led by the Infant Formula Action Coalition (INFACT). It quickly spread to other countries, with support from various organizations including Save the Children, Oxfam, and the World Health Organization (WHO). The boycott led to the development of the International Code of Marketing of Breast-milk Substitutes by the WHO in 1981, which Nestlé agreed to adhere to.

However, allegations of non-compliance with the Code by Nestlé and other infant formula manufacturers have led to the continuation of the boycott in various forms. The boycott has been called off and restarted several times, depending on Nestlé's actions and the findings of independent audits of their compliance with the Code.

Impact

The Nestlé boycott has had a significant impact on the company's reputation and has led to changes in its marketing practices. It has also raised awareness about the importance of breastfeeding and the potential dangers of infant formula, particularly in less economically developed countries.

The boycott has also influenced the development of international regulations and guidelines on the marketing of infant formula, including the International Code of Marketing of Breast-milk Substitutes.

See Also

• Nestlé
• International Baby Food Action Network
• Infant Formula Action Coalition
• International Code of Marketing of Breast-milk Substitutes

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