Label compliance study of breastmilk substitutes in Saudi Arabia

Breast milk is the optimal source of nutrition for infants, and when breastfeeding is not possible, breastmilk substitutes serve as an essential alternative. Different types of breastmilk substitutes are designed to meet the nutritional needs of infants, yet research on compliance with local regulations, particularly in Saudi Arabia, remains limited. This study evaluated nutrient content and technical labeling of 145 breastmilk substitutes using secondary data from the Saudi Branded Food Database (SBFD). Formulas were categorized into standard infant formula (26.2%), follow-on formula (37.2%), special medical purposes formula 0–12 months (27.6%), and special medical purposes formula 12–36 months (9%). Nutrient values were standardized per 100 kcal, with energy expressed per 100 ml according to local regulations. All products declared 25 nutrients, while L-carnitine had the lowest declaration rate (63.4%). Conformity to reference values was 100% for five nutrients, with inositol showing the lowest conformity (61.4%). Technical labeling items were mostly compliant, though company details and warning statements had the lowest compliance (86.2%). Overall, the study demonstrates generally high adherence to local regulations, highlighting the importance of continued regulatory oversight to protect infant health and improve product transparency.