WASHINGTON, D.C. — The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have unveiled the next phase of Operation Stork Speed, a comprehensive initiative to ensure the safety, effectiveness, and nutritional adequacy of infant formula in the United States. At the core of this effort is the FDA’s launch of a Request for Information (RFI), which invites public and expert input to reassess nutrient standards for infant formula. This marks the first full review of these standards in over two decades.
The initiative comes at a critical moment, as policymakers and scientists alike recognize the importance of delivering optimal nutrition to infants during their earliest and most vulnerable stages of life. Current regulations require infant formula to meet specific minimum and maximum nutrient levels, but evolving scientific research and international standards have highlighted the need for a comprehensive update.
A Science-Driven Approach to Infant Nutrition
HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. emphasized the initiative’s focus on transparency and the incorporation of cutting-edge science. “Operation Stork Speed brings radical transparency to ingredients in infant formula and puts science front and center,” he stated. “Every child has a fundamental right to a healthy start. We’re giving parents the truth and the tools to make that happen. You can’t Make America Healthy Again if we don’t fix what nourishes our youngest and most vulnerable Americans.”
The FDA’s RFI seeks data and recommendations from stakeholders, health professionals, and the public on whether existing nutrient standards should be revised. Specific areas of inquiry include updates to minimum or maximum nutrient levels, the introduction of additional nutrients, and the potential impact of such changes on infant health outcomes.
“Protecting our most vulnerable is not just a moral duty—it is our responsibility,” said FDA Commissioner Martin A. Makary, M.D., M.P.H. “For many children, infant formula is their only source of nutrition. That’s why it’s absolutely crucial to continually assess the nutrition standards and incorporate gold standard science to ensure we are providing the safest, most effective nutrition possible.”
The FDA also announced plans to convene a public expert panel in June, where leading scientists, nutritionists, and industry representatives will assess current data and provide recommendations for future regulatory updates.
A Commitment to Infant Health and Safety
Operation Stork Speed represents a significant step forward in ensuring that infant formula meets the highest standards of safety and nutritional quality. Infant formula plays a vital role in the health of millions of children across the U.S., especially for those who rely on it as their sole source of nutrition. Revising and enhancing the nutrient guidelines has the potential to address gaps in current regulations and improve long-term health outcomes for children nationwide.
Broader Implications for Public Health
The initiative also spotlights the government’s efforts to address critical public health issues through data-driven and transparent processes. By actively seeking public input and involving leading experts, the FDA aims to create a collaborative framework that sets a new precedent for regulatory oversight in infant nutrition.
Moving forward, the outcomes of the RFI and expert panel discussions will inform tangible updates to federal infant formula standards. These efforts are expected to align with the latest scientific research and international benchmarks, providing an enhanced foundation for infant nutrition in the U.S.
By prioritizing the health of its youngest citizens, Operation Stork Speed exemplifies a forward-looking strategy to safeguard public health, support caregivers, and lay the groundwork for a healthier future generation.
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