The Ministry of Health stated that it prefers mothers who can produce breast milk to breast feed their babies rather than relying on infant milk formula.
Ministry spokesperson Peni Namotu said their policy at the hospitals is clear that mothers should be encouraged to breast feed.
When questioned by Fijivillage, Namotu said he understands that some mothers have personal issues and cannot produce enough breast milk.
But he said many working mothers who can produce milk fully rely on infant formula.
Namotu said the ministry believes there are ways to keep breastfeeding even if a mother returns to work from maternity leave.
Meanwhile, the Marketing Control for Food for Infants and Young Children Regulation 2010 which promotes breast feeding and adequate nutrition for children from birth to five years is now in effect.
The regulation requires the promotion of breast milk on all formula cans and the removal of pictures of healthy babies from the cans.
Businesses found not complying with the regulation will have to pay a maximum penalty of $50,000 or imprisonment for 10 years or both.
Story by: Vijay Narayan
Mothers encouraged to breast feed
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