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Rabat – The prices of baby formula in Morocco have skyrocketed over the past couple of years by more than 14%, with the Moroccan consumer protection authority warning that the high cost could put babies’ health at risk.
Amid the soaring prices, many vulnerable families have resorted to unsafe practices, including replacing infant formula with cheaper, unfit-for-baby-consumption options.
“Infant formula is now beyond the purchasing power of consumers, which has led some to substitute it with unfit cow milk to feed babies,” said the association in a press release.
The statement explained that Moroccan hospitals and doctors have reported numerous cases of digestive problems and malnourishment among formula-dependent infants who were fed cow milk.
“The Moroccan Consumer Rights Association strongly denounces the upward trend in formula prices and raises concerns to the relevant authorities about the potential collusion among companies to increase prices,” added the statement.
Read also: UN Report: 2.1 Million Moroccans are Undernourished
The association reported consecutive increases in formula prices since 2020, ranging from 7% increases (MAD 3) to 28% (MAD 24) in some brands.
It called for the regulation of baby formula prices, similar to other products and medications sold in pharmacies, stressing that this measure is essential “to prevent the health and financial consequences resulting from the consumers’ inability to afford this product which is essential for babies’ growth.”
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, introducing babies less than 12 months old to cow’s milk “may put him or her at risk for intestinal bleeding.”
The center warned that cow milk “has too many proteins and minerals for your baby’s kidneys to handle and does not have the right amount of nutrients your baby needs.”
