What products are covered under the scope of the Who Code?

The WHO Code applies to products which are "marketed or otherwise represented to be suitable" for use as a "partial or total replacement of breast-milk". However, this definition, without any age limitation, has led to confusion as it can include almost any food.

An explanation of the scope of the WHO Code was given by a representative of the WHO Executive Board before the Code was adopted by the World Health Assembly, and is included as Annex 3 to the Code, which explains the meaning of the Scope.

This explanation, which is essential for an understanding as to exactly what is covered by the Code, states that any food, "such as cows milk, fruit juices, cereals, vegetables, or any other fluid, solid or semi-solid food intended for infants and given after this initial period (i.e., the first four to six months of life) can no longer be considered as a replacement for breast milk". 

The explanation makes it clear that the Code applies only to products intended as a replacement for breast milk during the first 4 to 6 months of life and that any other liquid or solid food intended for infants or young children given after this period, is not considered a substitute for breast-milk.