[2][3] Since 1981, 84 countries have enacted legislation implementing all or many of the provisions of the Code and subsequent relevant WHA resolutions.
The Code and resolutions also contain specific provisions and recommendations relating to labelling of infant formula and other breastmilk substitutes.
In line with the recommendation for exclusive breastfeeding in WHA resolution 54.2 [2001],[9] all complementary foods must be labeled as suitable for use by infants from six months and not earlier.
The baby food industry has been the subject of pointed criticism from non-governmental organizations, international agencies and campaign groups for failing to abide by the Code.
Companies are only subject to legal sanctions for failing to abide by the Code where it has been incorporated into the legislature of a nation state.