Infant and young child feeding
World Health Organization
Last updated: August 5, 2026
This World Health Organization (WHO) fact sheet addresses crucial aspects of infant and young child feeding. It emphasizes the importance of optimal nutrition during the first two years of life for child survival, health, and development. The document outlines recommended practices for breastfeeding and complementary feeding, alongside specific considerations for challenging situations.
- Optimal infant and young child feeding is essential for survival, growth, and development. Exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life is recommended, followed by continued breastfeeding up to two years of age or beyond, alongside safe and adequate complementary foods.
- Complementary feeding should commence at six months of age, introducing a variety of nutrient-rich foods to meet the infant's growing needs. These foods must be safe, hygienically prepared, and fed frequently.
- Feeding practices need to adapt to various difficult circumstances, including poverty, natural disasters, and conflict, ensuring that vulnerable infants and young children receive adequate nutrition.
- For mothers living with HIV, safe infant feeding options are recommended to minimize the risk of HIV transmission while protecting the infant's nutritional status. Specific guidelines are provided for these situations.
- The WHO actively works to promote and support optimal infant and young child feeding practices globally through policy development, capacity building, and advocacy.
