§ Mr. HinchliffeTo ask the Secretary of State for Health if she will make a statement on the potential dental risks associated with the use of soya-based baby milk.
§ Mr. SackvilleSoya-based infant formulas have been developed for the particular needs of infants who are allergic to cow milk protein or who are lactose intolerant or who are being reared on a vegan diet. In order to meet all of these needs in one product they are formulated with carbohydrates which are more cariogenic than lactose. Parents feeding their infants with soya-based formulas should therefore pay particular attention to good weaning practices. Oral hygiene procedures should be started as soon as teeth emerge and parents may wish to seek medical and dental advice on the provision of fluoride supplements.