The company has a strong record of progress and support in implementing the WHO code, including the following:
• Immediate support for the WHO code, May 1981, and testi-
mony to this effect before the U.S. Congress, June 1981.
• Issuance of instructions to all employees, agents, and
distributors in February 1982 to implement the code in
all Third World countries where Nestlé markets infant
formula.
Establishment of an audit commission, in accordance with
Article 11.3 of the WHO code, to ensure the company’s com-
pliance with the code. The commission, headed by Edmund
S. Muskie, was composed of eminent clergy and scientists.
• Willingness to meet with concerned church leaders, interna-
tional bodies, and organization leaders seriously concerned
with Nestlé’s application of the code.
• Issuance of revised instructions to Nestlé personnel, October
1982, as recommended by the Muskie committee to clarify
and give further effect to the code.
• Consultation with WHO, UNICEF, and NIFAC on how to
interpret the code and how best to implement specifi
c provi-
sions, including clarifi
cation by WHO/UNICEF of the defi
-
nition of children who need to be fed breast milk substitutes,
to aid in determining the need for supplies in hospitals.