DoH statement:

• From September 17, 2006, infant milks based on goats` milk protein will no longer be sold in the UK.
• Health care professionals should inform mothers that infant milks based on goats` milk protein are not suitable as a source of nutrition for infants (under one year of age).
• Parents have used these milks for various reasons but goats` milk is not suitable for those with an allergy to cows` milk protein, nor for those with lactose intolerance.

Composition of infant formula and follow-on formula is governed by European legislation. The current legislation only permits infant formulae and follow-on formulae to be based on cows` milk protein, hydrolysed protein or soya protein.

European Food Safety Authority believes most babies who react to cows` milk protein will also react to goats` milk protein. Infants with proven cows` milk protein intolerance can be prescribed an extensively hydrolysed infant formula.

Formula derived from goats` milk is also unsuitable for babies who are lactose intolerant as it contains similar levels of lactose to cows` milk based infant formulae.

If you have any questions on this issue you can call one of our infant feeding advisors on 08457 623 624.

For the full DoH statement please click here