Turia calls for further investigation into 'Heitiki' infant formula

Co-leader of the Maori Party, Hon Tariana Turia, is embarking on a series of actions to further investigate the status of the Heitiki Infant Milk Formula and the credentials of the company Kiaora New Zealand International Limited.

”My interest was drawn to the marketing of the formulas on their website http://www.heitiki.co.nz/ by breastfeeding advocates in Whangai U” said Mrs Turia.

“I was initially alarmed at the intellectual and cultural property issues associated with associating the heitiki with infant formula – and the effect this could have in targeting Maori” said Mrs Turia. “My concern was that advertising the product in this way in effect is actively encouraging Maori women to substitute breastmilk with infant formula”.

“But upon further investigation it appears there may be other reason to question areas such as food safety, or compliance with consumer quality standards” said Mrs Turia.

“I will be directly approaching the Minister of Consumer Affairs regarding country of origin representation issues associated with the advertising campaign for this product”.

“I will also be talking with the Minister of Health to assess compliance of the marketing of this product in relation to the WHO International Code of marketing breast milk substitutes.

“I will not rest until I have received assurance that Kiaora New Zealand International Limited is complying with all appropriate codes and quality standards, in the marketing and production of Heitiki infant formula powder”.