First published in 1994, this HMSO publication  gives recommendations for HCPs on:

• weaning practices
• nutrients required at weaning
• milks and other drinks
• allergies
• vegetarian weaning diets
• dental health
• healthcare support and education about weaning

First published in May 2003, these guidelines outline the Department of Health’s recommendations on feeding infants.

The guidelines were drawn up following the WHO’s recommendations in 2001 of exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life.

The guidelines are easily downloadable by clicking this link. 

www.dh.gov.uk

First published in 1991, this publication follows a review of the recommended daily amounts of food, energy and nutrients by a panel set up in 1987 by the Committee on Medical Aspects of Food Policy (COMA)

Chapters cover:

• Energy, fat, sugars, starches, protein, vitamins and minerals

Within each chapter, required amounts for adults,children and pregnant and breastfeeding women are given, as well as information on the functionality and essentiality of the nutrient, dietary sources and potential problems if insufficient or excess amounts are consumed.

Healthy Start has replaced the Welfare Food Scheme. It is now live throughout Great Britain and Northern Ireland.

The Healthy Start website gives information for HCPs on:

• what the scheme offers
• who qualifies to benefit from the scheme
• what the HCPs role is in the scheme

www.healthystart.nhs.uk contains all the information you will need to learn more about this scheme.

There is a specific section on the website for HCPs where you can download and order materials for you and your colleagues, including posters and stickers as well as leaflets for parents.

A CPD module for midwives, health visitors, nurses or other HCPs is also available on the site and can be used as part of your annual continuing professional development.

The Department of Health and the Food Standards Agency have issued revised guidance for health professionals on the preparation and storage of powdered infant formula milk.

The guidelines are easily downloadable by clicking this link.

www.food.gov.uk

In the UK, where it is possible to ensure uninterrupted access to infant formula milk and where the risks of contamination associated with preparing the feeds can be minimised, the Departments' of Health policy is to advise HIV-infected women not to breastfeed, so as to reduce transmission of HIV to their children.

The policy can be viewed by clicking this link.