Reckitt’s purpose is to deliver innovative solutions for healthier lives and happier homes. We aim to support consumers across all of life’s stages, especially during the first 1000 days.
The acquisition of Mead Johnson Nutrition (MJN) in June 2017, means that Reckitt is now one of the key players in the Breast-Milk Substitutes (BMS) industry. Acting responsibly is core to our purpose. With our entrance into the BMS category, we commit to providing the highest quality infant and nutritional products, and to market these responsibly and ethically. We will respect not only our own high standards, but also act according to a set of recommendations on the marketing of BMS, as issued in 1981 by the World Health Organization commonly referred to as the ‘WHO Code’.
The aim of the WHO Code is to contribute to the provision of safe and adequate nutrition for infants, by protecting and promoting breastfeeding, and by ensuring the proper use of BMS, when these are necessary.
On 30 April 2018, Reckitt introduced its first BMS Marketing Policy, an important milestone and a firm illustration of our commitment to acknowledging the importance of the principles of the WHO Code and subsequent relevant World Health Assembly (WHA) resolutions as implemented by governments. Whilst we recognize there are differing views within the industry, we look forward to the opportunity to engage with key stakeholders and other interested parties to help initiate positive change in the industry as a whole, and to contribute to healthier lives and happier homes.
Reckitt commits to be at the forefront of partnerships with stakeholders to meet the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and we will work across industry, government and civil society to promote engagement, transparency and continuous improvement. We recognize that growth and responsibility go hand-in-hand. Financially, socially, and environmentally, we act responsibly and sustainably.