The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), under Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., has launched “Operation Stork Speed,” an initiative by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to enhance the quality, safety, and availability of infant formula nationwide.
Secretary Kennedy emphasized the agency’s commitment, stating, “The FDA will use all resources and authorities at its disposal to make sure infant formula products are safe and wholesome for the families and children who rely on them.”He further highlighted the importance of early nutrition, noting that “helping each family and child get off to the right start from birth is critical to our pursuit to Make America Healthy Again.”
Acting FDA Commissioner Sara Brenner, M.D., M.P.H., reiterated the agency’s dedication, saying, “The FDA is deeply committed to ensuring that moms and other caregivers of infants and young children and other individuals who rely on infant formula for their nutritional needs have confidence that these products are safe, consistently available, and contain the nutrients essential to promote health and wellbeing during critical stages of development and life.” She added, “Whether breastfed, bottle fed or both, the rising generation must be nourished in a way that promotes health and longevity over the course of their lives.”
As part of Operation Stork Speed, the FDA will initiate a comprehensive nutrient review, the first since 1998, and increase testing for heavy metals and other contaminants. The agency also plans to extend the personal importation policy and collaborate with companies to enhance transparency and labeling. These measures aim to ensure a robust supply of safe and nutritious infant formula for one of the nation’s most vulnerable populations.
The FDA remains committed to maintaining the highest standards for infant formula safety and nutritional quality, ensuring that the U.S. supply ranks among the best in the world.
