English

Infant and YoungChild Feeding in
Emergencies
Operational
Guidance for
Emergency Relief
Staff and
Programme
Managers

Developed by the IFE
Core Group

Version 3.0 – October 2017

Background
The Operational Guidance on Infant and Young Child Feeding in Emergencies (OG-IFE) was first
produced by the Interagency Working Group on Infant and Young Child Feeding in Emergencies in2001. This Working Group included members of the IFE Core Group; an inter-agency collaboration
concerned with the development of training materials and related policy guidance on infant andyoung child feeding in emergencies (IFE/IYCF-E, hereon referred to as IFE).
Version 2.0 was produced in May 2006; version 2.1 in February 2007 (with addendum in 2010); andversion 3.0 in October 2017 to reflect operational experiences and needs and guidance updates.
Version 3.0 update was undertaken by the IFE Core Group in consultation with international, regionaland country informants, co-led by the Emergency Nutrition Network (ENN) and UNICEF andcoordinated by ENN. The IFE Core Group gratefully acknowledges all those who advised on andcontributed to this and earlier editions.
This update of the OG-IFE was made possible by the generous support of the American people
through the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). The contents do notnecessarily reflect the views of USAID or the United States Government.

MandateThe OG-IFE seeks to meet the provisions of international emergency standards, including Core
Humanitarian Standards on Quality and Accountability (CHS) and Sphere Standards1, among manyothers2. It assists with the practical application of the Guiding Principles for Feeding Infants andYoung Children in Emergencies3 and the International Code of Marketing of Breastmilk Substitutes(“the Code”)4 and subsequent relevant World Health Assembly (WHA) resolutions. It assists decisionmakers, planners and donors to meet their responsibilities set out in the UNICEF/WHO Global Strategy
on Infant and Young Child Feeding5 in Article 24 of the Convention of the Rights of the Childa and theCall for Action contained in the Innocenti Declaration 2005 on Infant and Young Child Feedingb,
welcomed unanimously by the 2006 WHA. It contributes to the achievement of Sustainable
Development Goalc targets (Goals 2,3 and 6) and the work programme of the United Nations (UN)
Decade of Nutrition (2016-2025)d.

Aim
The OG-IFE aims to provide concise, practical guidance on how to ensure appropriate infant andyoung child feeding in emergencies.

Scope
The OG-IFE applies to emergency preparedness, response and recovery worldwide to minimise infant
and young child morbidity and/or mortality risks associated with feeding practices and to maximisechild nutrition, health and development.

Target populations
The target populations for interventions are infants and young children aged under two years old (023 months) and pregnant and lactating women (PLW).

Target users of this guidance
The OG-IFE is intended for policy-makers, decision-makers and programmers working in emergency
preparedness and response, including governments, United Nations (UN) agencies, national andinternational non-governmental organisations (NGOs), donors, volunteer groups and theprivate/business sector.
2

Recommended actions are directed at those with IFE coordination authority and mandated
responsibilities, and those undertaking activities directly or indirectly affecting IFE who also have key
responsibilities and roles. Actions will be required at multiple levels and to varying degrees according
to the context.
The OG-IFE is relevant across sectors and disciplines, particularly nutrition, but also health (including
reproductive health, maternal, newborn and child health (MNCH), curative services, mental health andpsychosocial support services (MHPSS); HIV; infectious disease management); adolescent services;
water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH); food security and livelihoods (FSL); child protection; earlychildhood development (ECD); disability; shelter; cash transfer programmes; social protection;
agriculture; camp coordination and camp management; and logistics.

LayoutBeginning with a summary of key points, this document is organised into six sections of practicalsteps, followed by key contacts (Section 7), a reference section with key resources (Section 8), anddefinitions (Section 9). References are included as footnotes that link to Section 8, where numberedresources are listed. Supporting information is alphabetically indexed in the notes that follow Section
7. Emergency preparedness is a cross-cutting theme; key actions are summarised in Box 1 and sections
listed in Annex 1. Multi-sector collaboration is addressed in Section 5 but also in other sections; aguide to content by sector/speciality is included in Annex 1.

Feedback and support
The IFE Core Group welcomes feedback on this document and implementation experiences. Contact
the IFE Core Group c/o UNICEF Programme Division, New York, USA: nutrition@unicef.org, or c/o ENN,
Oxford, UK: office@ennonline.net. Include ‘OG-IFE feedback’ in the subject line.
The OG-IFE is available online at www.ennonline.net/operationalguidance-v3-2017

1

See 23-25 in References Section 8.2 Policy – Minimum Standards
See References Section 8.2 Policy – Minimum Standards
3
See 4 in References Section 8.2 Policy – Global and National Strategy
4
See 9 and 10 in References Section 8.2 Policy – Global Policy5
See 5 in References Section 8.2 Policy – Global and National Strategy
2

3

CONTENTS
KEY POINTS

5PRACTICAL STEPS (1-6)

6

1. Endorse or develop policies

6

2. Train staff

7

3. Co-ordinate operations

7

4. Assess and monitor
General 4.1–4.3
Pre-crisis data and early needs assessment 4.4–4.10
In-depth assessment 4.11
Monitoring 4.12–4.18

9
9
10
11
12

5. Protect, promote and support optimal infant and young child feeding with integrated
multi-sector interventions
General 5.1–5.6
Breastfeeding support 5.7–5.9
Infants who are not breastfed 5.10–5.19
Complementary feeding 5.20–5.28
Micronutrient supplementation 5.29
Multi-sector collaboration 5.30–5.32
HIV and infant feeding 5.33–5.39
Infectious disease outbreaks 5.40

12
12
13
14
15
17
17
18
19

6. Minimise the risks of artificial feeding
Donations in emergencies 6.1–6.6
Artificial feeding management 6.7–6.10
BMS supplies 6.11–6.14
BMS specification 6.15–6.17
Procurement of BMS supplies, feeding equipment and support 6.18–6.23
Distribution of BMS 6.24–6.27

20
20
20
21
21
22
23

7. KEY CONTACTS

23

Box 1: Emergency preparedness actions

24

8. REFERENCES
General 8.1
Policy 8.2
Training 8.3
Coordination 8.4
Assessment and Monitoring 8.5
Multi-sector Interventions 8.6
Artificial Feeding 8.7

28
29
29
30
33
33
35
42

9. DEFINITIONS
Annex 1: Guide to content by sector/speciality and preparedness

43
49

Acronyms

50

4

KEY POINTS
1. Appropriate and timely support of infant and young child feeding in emergencies (IFE) saves lives;protects child nutrition, health and development; and benefits mothers.
2. Emergency preparedness is critical to a timely, efficient and appropriate IFE response (Box 1).
3. Key provisions regarding IFE should be reflected in government, multi-sector and agency policies
and should guide emergency responses (Section 1).
4. Sensitisation and training on IFE is necessary at multiple levels and across sectors (Section 2).
5. Capacity to coordinate IFE should be established in the coordination mechanism for every
emergency response. Government is the lead IFE coordination authority. Where this is not possible
or support is needed, IFE coordination is the mandated responsibility of UNICEF or UNHCR,
depending on context, in close collaboration with government, other UN agencies and operational
partners (Section 3).
6. Timely, accurate and harmonised communication to the affected population, emergency
responders and the media is essential (Section 3).
7. Needs assessment and critical analysis should inform a context specific IFE response (Section 4).
8. Immediate action to protect recommended infant and young child feeding (IYCF) practices andminimise risks is necessary in the early stages of an emergency, with targeted support to higher
risk infants and children (Section 5).
9. In every emergency, it is necessary to assess and act to protect and support the nutrition needs
and care of both breastfed and non-breastfed infants and young children. It is important toconsider prevalent practices, the infectious disease environment, cultural sensitivities and expressedneeds and concerns of mothers and caregivers when determining interventions (Section 5).
10. Multi-sector collaboration is essential in an emergency to facilitate and complement direct IYCF
interventions (Section 5).
11. In every emergency, it is important to ensure access to adequate amounts of appropriate, safe,
complementary foods and associated support for children and to guarantee nutritional adequacy
for pregnant and lactating women (PLW) (Section 5).
12. In emergencies, the use of breastmilk substitutes (BMS) requires a context-specific, coordinatedpackage of care and skilled support to ensure the nutritional needs of non-breastfed children are
met and to minimise risks to all children through inappropriate BMS use (Sections 5 and 6).
13. Donations of BMS, complementary foods and feeding equipment should not be sought or
accepted in emergencies; supplies should be purchased based on assessed need. Do not send
supplies of donor human milk to an emergency that is not based on identified need and part of acoordinated, managed intervention. BMS, other milk products, bottles and teats should not be
included in a general or blanket distribution (Sections 5 and 6).
14. It is essential to monitor the impact of humanitarian actions and inaction on IYCF practices, childnutrition and health; to consult with the affected population in planning and implementation; andto document experiences to inform preparedness and future response (Section 4).

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PRACTICAL STEPS
1Endorse or develop policies

1.1

Governments and agencies should have up-to-date policies which adequately address all of
the following elements in the context of an emergency: protection, promotion and support ofbreastfeeding; the management of artificial feeding; complementary feeding; the nutrition needsof PLW; compliance with the International Code of Marketing of Breastmilk Substitutes (BMS) andsubsequent relevant World Health Assembly (WHA) Resolutions (the Code)6; prevention andmanagement of donations of BMS; and infant feeding in the context of public healthemergencies and infectious disease outbreaks (see Section 9 Definitions for recommended IYCF
practices). Additional context-specific provisions may be necessary, such as for refugees orinternally displaced persons (IDP). Provisions may exist as a standalone policy and/or may be
integrated into other relevant policies. UNICEF and WHO have key responsibilities in supporting
national/sub-national policy preparedness (see Box 1 for key preparedness actions).

1.2

In early response, consult national/sub-national preparedness plans, policies andprocedures and uphold relevant legislation and international standards. In an emergency,
where existing policy guidance is absent, outdated or does not adequately address thecontext, rapid policy guidance updates or ‘stop-gap’ guidance development may be necessary,led by the IFE coordination authority and in consultation with WHO, other relevant UN
agencies and national/regional/global technical groups (see 3.1; 3.3).

1.3

Develop missing and update existing policy guidance in close collaboration with government
authorities and seek to strengthen relevant national/sub-national policies. Develop andupdate policies and associated procedures in preparedness.

1.4

Disseminate key policy guidance to all relevant responders across sectors, including mediagroups, private sector, donors, military and volunteer groups (see 3.7).

1.5

An inter-agency joint statement, issued and endorsed by relevant authorities, may be used
to highlight relevant guidance, provide context-specific rapid guidance, and harmonise
communication. Development of the statement should be led by the IFE coordination
authority (see 3.1); UNICEF and WHO have key roles to catalyse and support development. In
preparedness, develop a draft joint statement and secure preliminary approval with relevant
authorities. A model joint statement is available7.

1.6

The Code expresses the collective will of governments regarding the marketing of BMS andsets out the responsibilities of the manufacturers and distributors of products covered by theCode, health workers, national governments and concerned organisations (see 9). Enact theCode into national legislation in preparedness and enforce at all times, including during
emergency response. Ensure that existing legislation is fully in line with the Code. Report Codeviolations (see 4.16 and 7.1).

1.7

Enact legislation and adopt policies in line with the WHO Guidance on Ending theInappropriate Promotion of Foods for Infants and Young Children8 (see 5.27). In preparedness,UN, civil society and government policy-makers should develop national legally binding
policies regarding private sector engagement in emergency response to enable constructive
collaboration and avoid undue influence and conflicts of interest9.

6

See 9 and 10 in References Section 8.2 Policy – Global Policy
See 13 in References Section 8.2 Policy – Organisational Policy8
See 11 and 12 in References Section 8.2 Policy – Global Policy9
See 7 in References Section 8.2 Policy – Global and National Strategy
7

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2

Train staff

2.1

Sensitise relevant personnel across sectors to support IFE, including those dealing directlywith affected women and children; those in decision-making positions; those whose
operations affect IYCF; those handling any donations; and those mobilising resources for the
response. Target groups for sensitisation include government staff, sector/cluster leads,
donors, rapid-response personnel, camp managers, communications teams, logisticians, themedia, volunteers, among others.

2.2

Train personnel on IFE in preparedness and during emergency response, as necessary. Target
personnel may include government staff; NGO staff and volunteers delivering health andnutrition services and support at facility or community level; and frontline staff in other sectors.

2.3

Adapt and prioritise training content to address identified needs, cultural expectations andpersonal experiences of mothers and staff; capacity gaps; the target audience; and time available.
More specialist capacity to counsel mothers and infants with heightened needs, such as stressedor traumatised mothers, malnourished infants and mothers, low birth weight (LBW) infants anddisabled infants with feeding difficulties, may be needed. At a minimum, staff in contact withmothers and children aged under two years should be trained to be sensitive to psychosocial
issues, on nutrition screening, and on referral pathways to more specialist support10.

2.4

Undertake sensitisation and training in preparedness. Integrate IFE components into existing
curricula and trainings and collaborate with national and regional academic and training institutions
on content development and delivery. Include basic concepts around IFE and the Code in pre-service
training of relevant health professionals. Integrate lessons from previous emergency response
into training packages. Document who is trained and how to access them in an emergency.

2.5

Identify and use existing national expertise and networks, such as on breastfeedingcounselling and support. Sources of national contacts include: Ministry of Health; UNICEF and
WHO country offices; World Alliance for Breastfeeding Action (WABA)e; La Leche Leaguef andother mother-to-mother breastfeeding support organisations; International Lactation
Consultant Association (ILCA)g and national ILCA affiliates; and International Baby Food Action
Network (IBFAN)h national groups (see 7 for contacts).

3

Coordinate operations

3.1

Government is the lead coordination authority on IFE. Where this is not possible or support
is needed, among UN agencies and in accordance with mandates, IFE coordination is the
responsibility of UNICEF or UNHCR, whereby:i. UNICEF’s coordination authority may be as cluster lead agency within the Inter Agency
Standing Committee (IASC) cluster approach to humanitarian responsei where a country
cluster is activated, or as the UN agency with mandated responsibility for infant and young
child feeding in humanitarian situations11.
ii. In IDP responses, UNICEF is responsible for IFE coordination12.
iii. In refugee responses, UNHCR is the UN agency responsible for IFE coordinationj.
iv. In all settings, UNICEF and UNHCR will maximise synergies between their respective
technical and management capacities, availability of resources and response capacities.

10

See References Section 8.3 Training
See 14 in References Section 8.2 Policy – Organisational Policy
12
See 14 in References Section 8.2 Policy – Organisational Policy
11

7

WFP is responsible for mobilising food assistance in emergencies in a manner that upholds
the provisions of the OG-IFE. WHO is responsible for supporting Member States to prepare for,respond to and recover from emergencies with public health consequences.

3.2

Ensure there is capacity to coordinate IFE within coordination mechanisms in an emergency
response. Assess and support development of government coordination capacity asnecessary. Determine or clarify coordination responsibilities and roles in preparedness and inearly response. UNICEF country offices have a key responsibility to prepare for coordinationneeds in an emergency and as necessary, to support government capacity and skills
development in this regard.

3.3

The IFE coordination authority must directly coordinate the IFE response or ensure adequate
coordination mechanisms and capacity are in place13. This may involve recruitment or
secondment of additional staff or collaboration/partnership with another agency or agencies.
Country/regional/global technical support mechanisms or working groups may be identified
or formed to support coordination. Where a partner agency is identified to undertake
coordination activities, the IFE coordination authority remains accountable for ensuring anadequate, appropriate, timely IFE response.

3.4

The level of coordination, including whether a dedicated IFE coordinator is necessary, will
depend on the context. Wherever possible, support government to fulfil their IFE
coordination responsibility and work with existing country-level structures and mechanisms.
Identify or locate IFE coordination capacity within the most relevant sector coordination
mechanism, such as nutrition, health or food security.

3.5

Coordination provides context-specific, technically informed direction on IFE to all
responders; identifies critical vulnerabilities and response gaps and actions to ensure theseare quickly addressed; and monitors the adequacy of response. In close collaboration withgovernment, sector or cluster partners, IFE coordination authority responsibilities include:
i. Undertake contextual analysis of existing baseline data to immediately inform actions.
ii. Ensure IFE is included in early/multi-sector/rapid needs assessment; advise on standard
and context-specific indicator use; provide IFE situational analysis; and ascertain need forand direct further needs assessment (see 4).
iii. Ensure IFE interventions are included and accurately reflected in emergency funding calls
and flash appeals.
iv. Appraise the adequacy of existing policy guidance and direct, as necessary, policy
updates, stop-gap guidance development and joint statements (see 1).
v. Develop and oversee implementation of a communication strategy (see 3.7).
vi. Develop a context-specific action plan, drawing on preparedness plans where they exist(see 1.1) and in collaboration with other sectors (see 5.6, 5.30-5.32, Annex 1).
vii. Determine and actively seek the necessary resources and partner capacity to support
action plan implementation.
viii. Coordinate breastfeeding support and complementary feeding interventions (see 5).
ix. Coordinate the management of artificial feeding, as necessary (see 6.7-6.10).
x. Mitigate and manage risks regarding the humanitarian response, including prevention
and management of donations of BMS, milk products, complementary foods, donor
human milk and feeding equipment (see 6.1-6.6).
xi. Provide adapted guidance where IFE programming response is compromised (see 3.8).
xii. Be alert to, avoid and manage conflicts of interest, such as when cooperating with theprivate sector and when securing funding for IFE interventions (see 1.7). Develop interim
guidance as necessary to ensure adequate safeguards.
xiii. Monitor the IFE response effort (see 4.12-4.18).

13

See References Section 8.4 Coordination – Humanitarian Response Planning and Coordination

8

3.6

Coordinate with other sectors to identify opportunities for multi-sector collaboration14 inneeds assessment and programming and to inform sector policies, actions plans and risk
management regarding IFE. Actively participate in relevant sector or cluster co-ordination
meetings. Identify and engage with those working independently of mainstream coordination
structures, e.g. military, volunteer groups and civil society groups.

3.7

Ensure coordinated, timely, accurate and harmonised communication to the affected
population, responders and the media. A communication strategy should provide aframework15 with accompanying implementation plan. Key considerations include policy
guidance dissemination; messaging to the affected population on services available and on
IYCF practices; adapted messaging for target groups in the relief effort (e.g. military, volunteer
groups and civil society groups); press releases; monitoring media coverage; and adapted
messaging for different media (e.g. radio, mobile phone, social media). A media guide on IFE isincluded in Section 816

3.8

In some emergencies, it may not be possible to meet all the provisions of the OG-IFE
immediately, such as where access to those affected is limited or impossible, or capacity islacking to deliver necessary support. In such circumstances, critical analysis by the IFE
coordination authority, government, UNICEF, WHO and, where applicable, UNHCR (see 3.1) isessential to provide context-specific guidance on appropriate actions and acceptable
compromises. Adapted programming may fall short of OG-IFE recommendations and shouldbe temporary. The unmet needs and risks of compromised programming should be used to
inform proactive advocacy for humanitarian access, resourcing and capacity. Decision-making
should be recorded and lessons learned should be documented and shared.

3.9

The IFE coordination authority is accountable for implementation of international andrelevant national standards and benchmarks, including the provisions of this OG-IFE, SphereStandards and the Code. Shortfalls in guidance should be addressed (see 1.2-1.3).

3.10 Gaps in IFE coordination capacity in an emergency response should be reported to UNICEF or
UNHCR country or regional office and to agency headquarters as necessary (see 7).

4

Assess and monitor

General
4.1 Assess the needs and priorities for IFE response and monitor the impact of interventions,humanitarian action and inaction. Prioritise assessment of acute needs and difficulties that
expose children to the greatest risk. Gather qualitative and quantitative data in preparedness,
early needs assessment and representative surveys. Invest in gathering reliable, accurate,
systematic and coordinated information. Triangulate information sources. The level and typeof IFE assessment that is possible in a given emergency will depend on a balance of factors
including population access, capacity, type of emergency (e.g. acute, chronic) and resources.

4.2

Explore opportunities to include IYCF questions in other sector needs assessments and draw
on relevant multi-sector data, such as water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) and healthreports. In multi-sector assessment teams, ensure one person has received basic orientation on
IFE. For needs assessment planning and analysis, involve personnel experienced in IYCF, ideally
IFE. Where such capacity is limited at local level, seek regional and/or global-level specialist

14

See References Section 8.6 Multi-sector Interventions – Integration
See References Section 8.4 Coordination – Communications and Advocacy
16
See 65 in References Section 8.4 Coordination – Communications and Advocacy; Media Guide on IYCF-E. IFE Core Group, 200715

9

support (see 7). Consult with sectoral specialists to support analysis of multi-sectoral data asnecessary.

4.3

Disaggregate data for children under two years old by gender and by age as follows: 0-5
monthsk, 6-11 months, 12-23 months, and proportion of PLWl. Informed by the context,
disaggregate key information by ethnicity, location, etc. to enable equity analysis.

Pre-crisis data and early needs assessment

4.4

Use pre-crisis background information (secondary data) to develop an IYCF situation profile
to inform early decision-making and immediate actions. Collate key information in
preparedness or as necessary, in early response.

4.5

Pre-crisis information sources include existing government, NGO and UN country
programmes; Multiple Indicator Cluster Surveys (MICS)m and Demographic Health Surveys(DHS)n; sub-national surveys; national institutions (ministries, local offices for emergency
preparedness, drugs and food standards authorities); Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices(KAP) studies; World Breastfeeding Trends Initiative (WBTi) country profileso; WHO and UNICEF
databasesp; Nutrition Landscape Information Systemq; post-emergency evaluationsr; previous
flash appeals and Humanitarian Response Plans (HRP). Nutrition information may also be
obtained through joint nutrition and food security assessments such as Joint Approach to
Nutrition and Food Security Assessment (JANFSA); Comprehensive Food Security and
Vulnerability Analysis (CFSVA); and Food Security and Nutrition Monitoring Systems (FSNMS).

4.6

Key information to consider includes:

4.6.1 Contextual datas
Policy environment, including relevant national guidance and preparedness planst; legal
status of the Code; policies and protocols on HIV and infant feeding and other publichealth emergencies/infectious disease outbreaks (see 5.33-5.40); national food and drug
legislation that affects the procurement of commodities.
ii. Pre-emergency child nutritional status including prevalence of acute malnutrition,
stunting and anaemia; and maternal nutritional status, including anaemia prevalence.
iii. Population security and access difficulties, such as in conflict-affected areas.
iv. Estimated caseloads of children under two years of age (disaggregated data; see 4.3) and PLW.
v. Prevalence/reports of higher risk infants, young children and mothers (see 5.4).
vi. Household food security, including access to appropriate complementary foods (see 5.23).
vii. WASH environment, including access to safe water and sanitation, and social norms on
hygiene (see 5.32.viii).
viii. Health environment, including support offered by providers of antenatal, delivery andpostnatal services; age and morbidity profile of admissions to acute malnutrition treatment
programmes; infectious disease morbidity rates; crude mortality rateu (CMR), infant mortality
ratev (IMR) and under-five mortality ratew (U5MR); coverage of antiretroviral treatment (ART);and support offered by social services and social protection mechanisms.
ix. Capacity and availability of potential support givers, such as breastfeeding mothers,
trained health workers, trained counsellors, experienced women from the community,community outreach worker networks, translators and interpreters.
i.

4.6.2 IYCF data
Pre-emergency feeding practices, including prevalence of: breastfeeding initiation in
newborns; early and exclusive breastfeeding in infants under six months; non-breastfed
infants under six months; continued breastfeeding at one year and at two years; minimum
acceptable diet; bottle feeding (at any age); BMS use, including infant formula, by age group17.
i. Population knowledge and attitudes regarding IYCF.
10

ii. Prevalent complementary feeding practices, common complementary foods used andtheir sources.
iii. Acceptability and feasibility of relactation, wet nursing, use of donor human milk,availability of human milk banks (see 5.11-5.14).
iv. Local perceptions of child disability and associated feeding and care practices. Reports
and observations regarding children and caregivers with disabilities and any feeding or
care related issues.
v. Reports of feeding difficulties or requests for feeding support (including requests for
BMS) from mothers, families, communities and/or in the media.
vi. Requests or reports of untargeted distribution or donations of BMS, complementary
foods, or feeding equipment.

4.7

Conduct early needs (rapid) assessment18 to inform strategic decisions (e.g. target population,
geography, type of problem, scale of problem, number of individuals affected, indication for further
needs assessment) and operational decisions (e.g. budget, equipment, skills and staff needs)on response. Wherever possible, link or integrate with multi-sector needs assessment. Criticalanalysis of quantitative and qualitative data is needed to determine appropriate interventions.

4.8

Where a representative survey is not feasible, use alternative, opportunistic means to gather
relevant data on the current situation. Approaches to gather data include focus group
discussions, individual interviews, transect walks and market visits. Conduct at household orcommunity level, including where population gathers, such as registration centres, food
distributions and health centres. In transit populations, rapidly screen for PLW, especiallymothers with young infants. Take account of methodological limitations in analysis.

4.9

Gather information for different population groups (by geography, ethnicity, etc.) to the extent
possible. Use standard indicators19 and develop context-specific indicators as necessary, in
consultation with the IFE coordination authority. Additional sources of information include
humanitarian situation reports, sector needs assessment reports, media reports, funding
appeals and social media.

4.10 Alerts in early needs assessment requiring further investigation include: elevated CMR, IMR
and/or U5MR; reports of infant or maternal deaths; global acute malnutrition prevalence above
5%; artificial feeding practiced pre-emergency; low (<50%) exclusive breastfeeding prevalencepre-emergency; mothers reporting difficulties breastfeeding; low (<70%) continued
breastfeeding prevalence at one year; reports of non-breastfed infants under six months ofage; requests for infant formula; poor availability of appropriate complementary foods; infants
under six months of age presenting with acute malnutrition; orphaned infants; reports of BMS
donations or untargeted distributions of BMSx.

In-depth assessment
4.11 Where more in-depth assessment is indicated and feasible, conduct a representative survey(i.e. random sampling, systematic sampling or cluster sampling)20. This may involve a
standalone IYCF survey or IYCF assessment integrated within another, such as ananthropometric or reproductive health survey. Integration will affect survey sampling size,
sample age group and questionnaire size. Standard indicators should be used (see 4.9).
Accurately determine age21. Knowledge and attitudes on IYCF may also be assessed.
17

See References Section 8.5 Assessment and MonitoringSee 76 in References Section 8.5 Assessment and Monitoring – Collecting Data (Assessment)
19
See References Section 8.5 Assessment and Monitoring – Indicators
20
See References Section 8.5 Assessment and Monitoring – In-depth Assessment
21
See References Section 8.5 Assessment and Monitoring
18

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Monitoring
4.12 Intervention strategies should include objectives, target population, expected outputs andoutcomes. Include process/output indicators to measure the quality, quantity, coverage andutilisation of services and programmes and outcome indicators to describe the effect of theintervention. Define benchmarks to determine progress and achievement consideringintervention timeframes.

4.13 Use quantitative and qualitative indicators to determine impact of behaviour change activities;
these are most likely associated with longer-term programming in chronic emergency
contexts. Assess geographical or population coverage of services using appropriate coverageassessment methodsy. Use periodic surveys to determine impacts. Assessments (or parts of abaseline assessment, for example) can be repeated as part of monitoring.

4.14 Monitor IFE activities and interventions using standard indicators that are built into
22

monitoring, evaluation, accountability and learning systems where they exist. Harmonise
indicator use across implementing partners and in surveys. Disaggregate data by age, gender,
vulnerable groups and equity indicators as appropriate to the context (see 4.3).

4.15 Monitor IFE response against higher-level global indicators, e.g. Sphere Standards. Include
IYCF in humanitarian response evaluations.

4.16 Monitor for Code violations and report them to national authorities, the IFE coordination
authority, and international monitorsz (see 7.1 for contacts and reporting templates). Support
government to develop policies and procedures to monitor for and act on Code violations;
WHO and UNICEF country offices have key responsibilities in this regard. Typical Codeviolations in emergencies relate to infant formula labelling, supply management, anddonations (see 6.1; 6.15; 6.25-6.26).

4.17 Ensure that gender equality and equity are integrated consistently in disaster prevention,
23

humanitarian response and recovery programmes.

4.18 Use participatory approaches to engage target population groups, including in programme
planning and design, feedback sessions and dissemination of findings24. Confidential
complaint mechanisms on IYCF activities and interventions should be available. Learn fromand adapt programming/activities as necessary. Document experiences for wider sharing.25

5

Protect, promote and support optimal infant and young childfeeding with integrated multi-sector interventions

General
5.1 At national level, UNICEF has a key responsibility to define, advocate for and provide guidanceon essential IYCF interventions in close collaboration with government and other stakeholders26.
This responsibility extends to both preparedness and recovery, using and building on existing
capacities, networks, policies, systems and requires multi-sector engagement. In refugeesettings, UNHCR holds this responsibility (see 3.1). WFP has a responsibility to ensure that thenutrition of infants and young children and PLW is considered in food assistance response andthat necessary data are gathered to inform related programming.
22

See References Section 8.5 Assessment and Monitoring – Indicators
See References Section 8.6 Multi-sector Interventions – Gender24
See References Section 8.5 Assessment and Monitoring – Participation
25
See References Section 8.5 Assessment and Monitoring – Learning26
See 14 in Section 8.2 Policy – Organisational Policy
23

12

5.2

Disaggregate programme data for children under five years old by gender and by age asfollows: 0-5 months, 6-11 months, 12-23 months and 24-59 months. Informed by the context,
disaggregate key information by ethnicity, location, etc. to enable equity analysis.

5.3

Act to ensure that the nutritional needs of the general population are met, giving special
attention to access to suitable complementary foods for children27 and nutritional adequacy
for PLW28.

5.4

Establish accessible IYCF support services to provide for higher risk infants, young children
and mothers, such as orphans, unaccompanied children, infants who are not breastfed;children with disabilities that affect feeding or whose caregivers are disabled29; mothers in
detention; children whose mothers are ill; adolescent mothers; premature infants; LBW infants;
and children and/or mothers who are acutely malnourished.

5.5

Encourage mothers/caretakers to present to health services when their child is sick or if they
have health or feeding concerns. Ensure sick and/or malnourished children receive
nutritional support and follow-up.

5.6

Collaborate across multiple sectors to maximise synergies and opportunities to support
recommended IYCF practices and minimise risks30.

Breastfeeding support
5.7 Protect, promote and support early initiation of exclusive breastfeeding in all newborn
infants. Integrate the Ten Steps to Successful Breastfeeding of the WHO/UNICEF Baby-friendly
Hospital Initiative31 in maternity services. Key newborn health interventions32 include skin-toskin contact, kangaroo mother careaa, ‘rooming in’ (keeping mothers and infants together), anddelayed umbilical cord clampingbb. Limit supplementation with BMS to medical needs33. Target
support to mothers of prematurecc and LBW infants34, adolescent mothers and first-time
mothers. Ensure access to HIV services as appropriate, including nutritional support whenindicated (see 5.33-5.39). Ensure birth registration of newborns within two weeks of delivery
and coordinate with other sectors (such as health, food security and social protection) tofacilitate access to support services. Use and build existing capacity (such as traditional birthattendants, midwives and peers) to provide skilled breastfeeding support35.

5.8

Protect, promote and support exclusive breastfeeding in infants less than six months of age
and continued breastfeeding in children aged six months to two years or beyond. Designinterventions that are culturally sensitive and that minimise risks of prevalent nonrecommended IYCF practices. Where mixed feeding is practiced in infants less than six monthsof age, sensitively support mothers to transition to exclusive breastfeeding (see 5.33-5.36 forbreastfeeding in the context of HIV).

5.9

The use of breastfeeding supplementary feeding devices and breast pumps should only beconsidered when their use is vital and where it is possible to clean them adequately, such as ina clinical setting36 .

27

See Section 8.6 Multi-sector Interventions – Complementary Feeding
See Section 8.6 Multi-sector Interventions – Maternal Nutrition29
See Section 8.6 Multi-sector Interventions – Disability
30
See Section 8.6 Multi-sector Interventions – Integration31
See 182 in Section 8.6 – Multi-sector Interventions32
See 185 in Section 8.6 – Multi-sector Interventions
33
See 109 in Section 8.6 – Multi-sector Interventions
34
See 112 in Section 8.6 – Multi-sector Interventions
35
See References Section 8.3 Training – Counselling36
See 107 in References Section 8.6 Multi-sector Interventions – Breastfeeding28

13

Infants who are not breastfed
5.10 In all emergencies, intervene to protect and support infants and children who are notbreastfed to meet nutritional needs and minimise risks. The consequences of notbreastfeeding are influenced by the age of the child (the youngest are most vulnerable); theinfectious disease environment; access to assured supplies of appropriate BMS, fuel andfeeding/cooking equipment; and WASH conditions.

5.11 Where an infant is not breastfed by his/her mother, quickly explore, in priority order, theviability of relactation, wet nursing and donor human milk, informed by cultural context,
current acceptability to mothers and service availability. If these options are not acceptable tomothers/caregivers or feasible to deliver, enable access to an assured supply of an appropriate
BMS, accompanied by an essential package of support (see 6).

5.12 A non-breastfeeding mother who wishes to relactate will require skilled breastfeeding
support until breastfeeding is re-established37. Success will depend on the mother’s wellbeing
and motivation; the age of the infant; how long the mother has ceased breastfeeding; and heraccess to sustained skilled support. Infants less than six months will benefit the most.

5.13 Investigate the cultural acceptability of wet nursing and availability of wet nurses in
preparedness and as part of early needs assessment. Wet nursing and relactation can work
together where the wet nurse provides supplemental milk until the mother has sufficient milk.
Prioritise wet nurses for the youngest infants (see 5.33-5.39 for HIV considerations).

5.14 To date, there is little experience with the use of formal and informal donor human milk inemergency settings. Donor human milk is likely a more viable option where there are existing
human milk banks in an emergency-affected area, that are integrated into broader
newborn/infant feeding programmesdd, and where key conditions are metee. Where donor
human milk is available, it may be in short supply; vulnerable infants (such as LBW, premature,and sick newborns) should be prioritised38. Caregivers of infants receiving donor human milkneed counselling and support to ensure appropriate and safe use (see 6.3 regarding
donations in emergencies).

5.15 Infant formula is the appropriate BMS for infants less than six months of age (see 6.15 for39

specifications). Alternative milks may be used as a BMS in children aged six months andolder, such as pasteurised or boiled full-cream animal milk (cow, goat, buffalo, sheep, camel),ultra-high temperature (UHT) milk, reconstituted evaporated (but not condensed) milk,fermented milk or yogurt40. Use of infant formula in children over six months of age will
depend on pre-emergency practices, resources available, sources of safe alternative milks,
adequacy of complementary foods, and government and agency policies. Follow-on milks,
growing-up milks, and toddler milks marketed to children aged six months or over are notnecessary (standard infant formula is adequate) and should not be provided. Where infant
formula is needed but supplies are limited, non-breastfed infants under six months of age
should be prioritised for provision. Home-modified animal milk is not recommended for31

See 182 in Section 8.6 – Multi-sector Interventions
See 185 in Section 8.6 – Multi-sector Interventions
33
See 109 in Section 8.6 – Multi-sector Interventions
34
See 112 in Section 8.6 – Multi-sector Interventions
35
See References Section 8.3 Training – Counselling36
See 107 in References Section 8.6 Multi-sector Interventions – Breastfeeding37
See 108 in References Section 8.6 Multi-sector Interventions – Breastfeeding38
See 111 in References Section 8.6 Multi-sector Interventions – Special Circumstances39
See 202 in References Section 8.7 Artificial Feeding – BMS Specification40
See 117 in References Section 8.6 Multi-sector Interventions – Complementary Feeding32

14

infants less than six months of age due to significant nutritional inadequacy and should only
be used as a last-resort, stop-gap measure. (See 9 for information on BMS that fall under thescope of the Code).

5.16 BMS requirement may be temporary or longer term. Temporary BMS indications include:
during relactation; transition from mixed feeding to exclusive breastfeeding; short-term
separation of infant and mother; short-term waiting period until wet nurse or donor humanmilk is available. Longer-term BMS indications include: infant not breastfed pre-crisis; mothernot wishing or unable to relactate; infant established on replacement feeding in the context ofHIV; orphaned infant; infant whose mother is absent long-term; specific infant or maternal
medical conditions41; very ill mother; infant rejected by mother; a rape survivor not wishing tobreastfeed.

5.17 Determine infant formula need through individual-level assessment by a qualified health or
42

nutrition worker trained in breastfeeding and infant feeding issues. Provide individual-level
education, one-to-one demonstrations and practical training on safe preparation to the
caregiver. Ensure follow-up (at least twice a month) and trace defaulters.

5.18 Provide infant formula for as long as the infant needs it, i.e. until breastfeeding is reestablished or until at least six months of age.

5.19 In circumstances where individual-level assessment, support and follow-up are not possible,
such as where population access is compromisedff, consult with the IFE coordination authority
for advice on adapted assessment and targeting criteria and programming options (see 3.8)43.

Complementary feeding
5.20 The designated IFE coordination authority should provide clear direction on complementary
feeding needs and interventions44. Government is the lead coordination authority to guide theresponse on complementary feeding. Where this is not possible or support is needed,
coordination on complementary feeding is the mandated responsibility of UNICEF or UNHCR,
depending on context, in close collaboration with government, other UN agencies andoperational partners. In all contexts, UNICEF has a key responsibility to provide guidance on
appropriate complementary foods and feeding practices and to help define essential
interventions. In food assistance programmes, WFP has a responsibility to provide or enable
access to appropriate nutrient-rich food for children aged 6-23 months and PLW whensignificant food and nutrient gaps are identified.

5.21 Complementary feeding interventions will depend on the context, objectives and timeframeof the response. Short-term actions to meet immediate needs and fill identified nutrient gaps
may be necessary, with planned transition to longer-term options. Tools are available to help
nutrient gap analysisgg.

5.22 Key considerations in determining complementary feeding response include pre-existing andexisting nutrient gaps; seasonality; socio-cultural beliefs; food security; current access toappropriate foods; quality of locally available complementary foods, including commercial
products; compliance to the Code and with WHO Guidance on ending inappropriate promotion offoods for infants and young children of available products; cost; proportion of non-breastfed
infants and childrenhh; reports of children with disability-associated feeding difficulties; maternal
41

See 109 in References Section 8.6 Multi-sector Interventions – Artificial Feeding
See References Section 8.6 Multi-sector Interventions – IYCF Counselling43
See 133 in References Section 8.6 Multi-sector Interventions – IYCF-E Programming for an example of minimum
screening for populations in transit
44
See References Section 8.6 Multi-sector Interventions – Complementary Feeding
42

15

nutrition; WASH conditions; the nature and capacity of existing markets and delivery systems;
national legislation related to food and drugs, particularly importation; and evidence of impact
of different approaches in a given or similar contexts.

5.23 Complementary food support options/considerations include:i.

Cash or voucher schemes to purchase nutrient-rich foods and/or fortified foods that are
locally available.
ii. Distribution of nutrient-rich foods or fortified foods at household level.
iii. Provision of multiple-micronutrient fortified foods to children aged 6-23 months and PLW
through blanket supplementary feeding. Examples include fortified blended foods suchas SuperCereal plus and SuperCereal (or local variations of this type of fortified porridge),
and lipid-based nutrient supplements (small to medium quantity) (see 9).
iv. Home fortification with micronutrient supplements, such as micronutrient powders(MNPs) or other supplements. Note that MNPs should not be provided where there isblanket distribution of multiple-micronutrient fortified foods (see 5.29).
v. Livelihood programmes and safety net programmes for families with children under two
years of age and/or PLW.
vi. Use of animal milk and products (see 5.25).
vii. Provision of non-food items and cooking supplies (including domestic energy); access tocommunal food preparation areas where household facilities are lacking; advice on safe
food handling; and protected eating and playing spaces.

5.24 Commercially produced complementary foods must meet minimum standards. Refer tointernational guidelines on the formulation of complementary foods45, minimum standards
for nutritional profile of complementary foods46 and country-specific standards as necessary.
Prioritise in-country, familiar, quality complementary foods over importing new products (see5.22 for key considerations). Ready-to-use therapeutic foods (RUTF) are not appropriate
complementary foods.

5.25 Where animal milk is a significant feature of child diets, such as in pastoral communities, it isimportant to establish how to safely include milk products as part of a complementary diet.
Milk products can be used to prepare complementary foods for all children over six months ofage. Recommend to breastfeeding mothers not to displace or substitute breastmilk withanimal milk. Pasteurised or boiled animal milk may be provided to non-breastfed children
over six months of age and to breastfeeding mothers to drink in controlled environments(such as where milk is provided and consumed on site (wet feeding)). Animal milk should not
be distributed outside of such controlled environments (see 5.15 and 6.25).

5.26 Ensure all complementary feeding interventions protect and support appropriate practices

47

by providing context-specific advice and support, including how to adapt foods available tofeed different age groups and hygienic food preparation and storage.

5.27 Ensure complementary feeding interventions comply with the WHO Guidance on ending
inappropriate promotion of foods for infants and young children48. This requires that all
information or messages concerning the use of complementary food products should include
a statement on the importance of breastfeeding for up to two years or beyond, theimportance of not introducing complementary feeding before six months of age and theappropriate age of introduction of this food (this must not be less than six months); and be
easily understood by parents and other caregivers, with all required label information being45

See 120 in References Section 8.6 Multi-sector Interventions – Complementary Feeding
See 117 in References Section 8.6 Multi-sector Interventions – Complementary Feeding47
See 118 and 119 in References Section 8.6 Multi-sector Interventions – Complementary Feeding48
See References Section 8.2 Policy – Global Policy
46

16

visible and legible. Provide clear instructions on safe preparation, use and storage. Labels anddesigns of complementary food packaging need to be distinct from those used on BMS to
avoid cross-promotion.

5.28 Do not send or accept donations of complementary foods in an emergency. Risks include
donated complementary foods may not meet nutritional and safety standards, Code labelling
requirements, or recommendations of WHO Guidance on Ending the Inappropriate Promotion ofFoods for Infants and Young Children; may be culturally inappropriate; and may undermine local
food use and recommended IYCF practices. For donated foods that are not designed ascomplementary foods but can be used for complementary feeding, it is important to preventthe emergency response from being used to create a potential market for specific foods; toensure interventions are needs based rather than donor-driven; and to guarantee adequate
quality and safety of the diet. Where any donations are being considered or have been
received, consult with the designated IFE coordination authority regarding theirappropriateness and/or management (see 6.6).

Micronutrient supplementation
5.29 For children aged 6-59 months, multiple-micronutrient supplements may be necessary tomeet nutrition requirements where fortified foods are not being provided, in conjunction withother interventions to improve complementary foods and feeding practices49. In malariaendemic areas, the provision of iron in any form, including MNPs, should be implemented inconjunction with measures to prevent, diagnose and treat malaria. Provision of iron throughthese interventions should not be made to children who do not have access to malaria
prevention strategies (e.g. provision of insecticide-treated bed nets and vector-control
programmes); prompt diagnosis of malaria illness; and treatment with effective antimalarial
drug therapy50. Vitamin A supplementation is recommended for children aged 6-59 months51.
For PLW, iron and folic acid or multiple-micronutrient supplementation should be provided inaccordance with the latest guidance52,53.

Multi-sector collaboration
5.30 Key sectors and disciplines to sensitise and work with on IYCF include health (reproductive
health; MNCH; MHPSS; HIV; infectious disease management); adolescent services; WASH; FSL;
child protection; ECD; disability; shelter; cash transfer programmes; social protection;
agriculture; camp coordination and camp management; and logistics.

5.31 Sector programme entry points for IYCF include: antenatal and postnatal care; immunisation;
growth monitoring; prevention of mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT) programmes; HIVprevention and treatment services, acute malnutrition treatment; community health;psychosocial counselling services; hygiene promotion; child protection screening; ECD
activities; places of employment; and agriculture extension work.

5.32 Examples of two-way multi-sector collaboration include:
54

i.

Enable access of pregnant women to skilled antenatal care55 and other necessary healthservices, including MHPSS56.

49

See References Section 8.6 Multi-sector Interventions – MicronutrientsSee 126 in References Section 8.6 Multi-sector Interventions – Micronutrients51
See 127 in References Section 8.6 Multi-sector Interventions – Micronutrients52
See 128 in References Section 8.6 Multi-sector Interventions – Maternal Nutrition53
See 186 in References Section 8.6 Multi-sector Interventions – Maternal, Newborn and Child Health54
See 158 in References Section 8.6 Multi-sector Interventions – Integration
55
See References Section 8.6 Multi-sector Interventions – Maternal Newborn and Child Health56
See References Section 8.6 Multi-sector Interventions – Mental Health and Psychosocial Support
50

17

ii. Integrate IYCF support and/or establish referral systems with reproductive, MNCH andadolescent health services; curative health services; acute malnutrition treatment; HIV;and child protection services. Include minimum/initial service packages offered bydifferent sectors.
iii. Integrate breastfeeding support into community-based and inpatient services treating
acute malnutrition57 and sick children58 and into community health worker networks.
Integrate skilled complementary feeding support into acute malnutrition treatment
services.
iv. Work with HIV prevention and treatment services to support access and adherence to
ART59 (see 5.38).
v. Integrate ECD into IYCF support at facility and community levels and explore
opportunities to incorporate IYCF elements into ECD60.
vi. Collaborate with the disability focal point on identified issues regarding feeding and careof disabled children and children whose caregivers are disabled61.
vii. Where fresh animal milk is used by a population, collaborate with animal welfare tofacilitate access to safe animal milk supplies and with WASH/FSL providers regarding
hygienic milk product processing and storage. Ensure initiatives act to protect
recommended IYCF practices.
viii. Ensure mother/child friendly spaces meet minimum WASH standardsii. Agree common
WASH and IYCF messaging. Advocate with WASH providers to target families withchildren under two years with adequate WASH support to meet minimum WASH/FSL
standards for food preparation. Enable access to WASH services by families of infants who
are artificially fed (see 6.21, 6.22).
ix. Integrate child protection62 in IYCF services with clear procedures, referral pathways andstaff codes of conduct. Integrate IYCF messages in child protection communication andcollaborate to help identify nutritionally vulnerable children.
x. In IYCF programmes, identify women who are traumatised for referral to protection
services. Embed IYCF support/referral systems within services provided to women/girls
exposed to violence.
xi. Accompany cash transfer programmes that include mothers in targeting with contextspecific IYCF and maternal nutrition messaging.
xii. Work with shelter providers to ensure minimum shelter and settlement standards aremet for families with children under two years and PLW that includes adequate living
conditions to support safe food preparation, feeding practices and care.
xiii. Work with camp coordination and camp management providers to protect and assist
families with children under two years and PLW, such as enabling access to key services
and adequate living conditions for families with children under two years and PLW; andproviding disaggregated population data.
xiv. Ensure livelihood programmes are child friendly; e.g. providing day care arrangements
and feeding breaks. Include IYCF questions in post-distribution monitoring. Consider
complementary foods in crop selection of agriculture programmes.

HIV and infant feeding
5.33 Check national/sub-national policies on HIV and infant feeding. Assess whether they are inline with the latest WHO recommendationsjj; address emergency situations, including refugee57

See References Section 8.6 Multi-sector Interventions – Mainstreaming within NutritionSee 183 in References Section 8.6 Multi-sector Interventions – Maternal Newborn and Child Health59
See References Section 8.6 Multi-sector Interventions – HIV
60
See References Section 8.6 Multi-sector Interventions – Early Childhood Development
61
See References Section 8.6 Multi-sector Interventions – Disability
62
See References Section 8.6 Multi-sector Interventions – Child Protection
58

18

and IDP contexts where applicable; and if necessary, support update as part of preparedness.
Rapid issue of updated interim guidance may be necessary in a response where policy is
outdated or to address unforeseen issues. Key emergency considerations include change inrisk exposure to non-HIV infectious disease and malnutrition; likely duration of the emergency;
access of refugee populations to antiretroviral drugs (ARVs) and health services; whether theconditions for safe formula feeding are available; and the availability of ARVs63.

5.34 In accordance with global guidance, support breastfeeding mothers living with HIV tobreastfeed for at least 12 months (early initiation and exclusive breastfeeding for the first six
months) and to continue breastfeeding for up to 24 months or longer while being fully
supported for adherence to ART (see 5.38). Where ARV drugs are unlikely to be available (suchas interrupted supply in an emergencykk), breastfeeding of HIV-exposed infants is
recommended in the interests of child survival. Breastfeeding should only stop once a
nutritionally adequate and safe diet without breastmilk can be provided.

5.35 Support breastfeeding women who are known to be HIV uninfected or whose HIV status is
unknown to exclusively breastfeed for the first six months of life and to continue
breastfeeding for 24 months or beyond, in accordance with recommended IYCF practices.

5.36 Prospective wet nurses should undergo HIV counselling and rapid testing where available (see5.38). In the absence of testing, if feasible undertake HIV risk assessment (see 9). If HIV risk
assessment/counselling is not possible, facilitate and support wet nursing. Provide counsellingon avoiding HIV infection during breastfeeding.

5.37 Urgently identify and provide support to infants established on replacement feeding (see5.10-5.19).

5.38 Work with the health sector to identify HIV-positive mothers on ART to promote and support
ART adherence and retention in treatment; to facilitate alternative distribution mechanisms
for ARVs where usual systems are disrupted; and to advocate that PLW remain a priority groupfor ARV distribution. A minimum HIV response requires assured, continued ARV supply for PLW
known to be HIV positive and on ARVs; access to safe and clean deliveries; infant feedingcounselling; and perinatal prophylaxis for HIV-exposed infants64. Provide links to existing careand support services; and access to contraceptives, malnutrition treatment services, and foodor livelihood support where indicated. Treatment options should be expanded to include HIV
rapid testing and counselling and initiation of ART as soon as possible65. HIV test kits should beprioritised (low-cost, robust regarding storage and temperature stability, and easy to use).

5.39 Clearly communicate with emergency responders, health providers and HIV-exposed mothers
regarding applicable HIV and infant feeding recommendations, such as in joint statements
issued (see 1.5).

Infectious disease outbreaks
5.40 Anticipate and assess the impact of human and animal infectious disease outbreaks on IYCF,
such as interrupted access to health and feeding support services; deterioration in household
food security and livelihoods; transmission risks via breastfeeding; and maternal illness anddeath. Take actions to mitigate risks. Interim guidance may be necessary to addressunanticipated IYCF consequences in outbreaks, such as Ebola virus and Zika virus66. Consult
WHO for up-to-date advice.
63

See 13 in References Section 8.6 Multi-sector Interventions – Special Circumstances
See 188 in References Section 8.6 Multi-sector Interventions – HIV
65
See 187 in References Section 8.6 Multi-sector Interventions – HIV
66
See References Section 8.6 Multi-sector Interventions – Infectious Disease
64

19

6

Minimise the risks of artificial feeding

Donations in emergencies
6.1 Do not donate or accept donations of BMS, other milk products or feeding equipment(including bottles, teats and breast pumps) in emergencies. Donated BMS are typically ofvariable quality; of the wrong type; supplied disproportionate to need; labelled in the wrong
language; not accompanied by an essential package of care; distributed indiscriminately; nottargeted to those who need them; do not provide a sustained supply; and take excessive timeand resources to manage to mitigate risks.

6.2
6.3

For considerations regarding complementary food donations, see 5.28.

6.4

Communicate a clear position on donations in preparedness and in early emergency
response, such as in a joint statement67. Investigate reasons for donation requests to informmessaging and assessment. Target key actors, including donors, development partners andcivil society groups, among others. Target groups that may not be engaged in official
coordination mechanisms, e.g. media, the military and voluntary groups.

6.5

Identify and inform potential donors and distributors regarding the risks associated withdonated supplies in emergencies. Provide information on how the nutritional needs of nonbreastfed infants are being met. Give guidance on appropriate alternative items or support.

6.6

Report offers or donations of BMS, donor human milk, complementary foods and feeding
equipment to UNICEF or UNHCR as appropriate (see 3.1), and to the IFE coordination authority,
who will determine and oversee a context-specific management plan to minimise risks.
Donations involving WFP food assistance should also be reported to WFP (see 7 for contacts).

Do not send supplies of donor human milk to emergencies that are not based on
identified need and a part of a coordinated, managed intervention. Safe use of donor
human milk requires needs assessment, targeting, a cold chain and strong management
systems (see 5.14).

Artificial feeding management
6.7 Plan appropriate procurement , distribution, targeting and use of BMS and associated68

support (artificial feeding management) in close consultation with the IFE coordination
authority and UNICEF (where UNICEF is not acting as the IFE coordination authority). In
accordance with mandates, WHO and UNHCR also have key responsibilities. Establish termsof reference, responsibilities and roles for artificial feeding management for use by the IFE
coordination authority, in preparedness.

6.8

Artificial feeding management requires needs and risk assessment and critical situational
analysis, informed by technical guidance. Analysis should include whether a demand for BMS
constitutes an actual need and/or whether other interventions, including improved support
for breastfeeding, are indicated to ensure infant nutrition and health. The scale of artificial
feeding support needed will determine the level of intervention and coordination required.

6.9

The IFE coordination authority and/or UNICEF should determine if and where capacity to
manage artificial feeding exists in government and among humanitarian providers. Where
capacity is limited, the IFE coordination authority and/or UNICEF should identify appropriate

67
68

See 13 in References Section 8.2 Policy – Organisation Policy
See References Section 8.7 Artificial Feeding – BMS Supplies and Feeding Equipment

20

BMS provider(s), including a BMS supply chain and associated support services. In the absenceof an appropriate provider, the IFE coordination authority and/or UNICEF will ensure
coordinated provision of BMS supplies. The IFE coordination authority and/or UNICEF will
provide clear terms of reference, technical support and close oversight of procurement,
monitoring and use.

6.10 Establish clear eligibility for BMS use in agreement with the IFE coordination authority (see5.16). If criteria are already in place, review and revise as needed. Communicate these criteria
to caregivers, communities and emergency responders.

BMS supplies
6.11 In refugee settings and in accordance with UNHCR policy, UNHCR will only source infant
formula after review and approval by its HQ technical units69.

6.12 In non-refugee settings and in accordance with UNICEF policy , UNICEF will only procure70

infant formula as the provider of last resort and at the request of the host government and/or
the national humanitarian coordination structure. Country offices must seek agreement from
UNICEF HQ (Nutrition Section and Supply Division), in line with UNICEF internal guidance.

6.13 Funders of BMS and milk products should ensure that all the provisions of the OG-IFE and theCode can be met by the implementing agency. Include compliance indicators in funding
agreements. Grant applications should include, and funders should accept, costs for associatedsupplies, such as feeding and cooking equipment, and hygiene measures.

6.14 An agency should only directly supply another agency with BMS if both are working as part of
the nutrition and health emergency response (see 9). Both the supplier and theimplementer are responsible for ensuring the provisions of the OG-IFE and the Code are met
and continue to be met for the duration of the intervention.

BMS specification
6.15 BMS labels must comply with the Code. Labels should be in the language understood by theend users and service providers and include: (a) the words “Important Notice” or theirequivalent; (b) a statement on the superiority of breastfeeding; (c) a statement that the
product should only be used on the advice of a health worker (this includes community
workers and volunteers) as to the need for its use and the proper method of use; (d)instructions for appropriate and safe preparation and storage and a warning on the healthhazards of inappropriate preparation and storage. Where labels of infant formula supplies do
not conform to Code requirements, consider relabelling (this will have cost and time
implications) or, where not possible, provide the specified information to users. Infant formula
must be compliant with relevant Codex Alimentarius standards71.

6.16 Infant formula is available as powdered infant formula (PIF) or as liquid, ready-to-use infant
formula (RUIF). PIF is not sterile and requires reconstitution with water that has been heated
to at least 70 degrees Celsius (as a guide, for 1 litre, boiled and left standing for no more than
30 minutes)72. RUIF is a sterile product until opened and does not require reconstitution;
appropriate use, careful storage and hygiene of feeding utensils remains essential to minimiserisks. RUIF is more expensive and bulky to transport and store. Concentrated liquid formula is
not recommended due to risk of dilution errors and contamination. Therapeutic milks (F75,69

See 22 in References Section 8.2 Policy – Organisational Policy
See 199 in References Section 8.7 Policy – Roles and Responsibilities71
See 202 in References Section 8.7 Artificial Feeding – BMS Specification72
See 196 in References Section 8.7 Artificial Feeding – Minimising the Risk
70

21

F100) are not appropriate BMS in non-malnourished infants; this should be particularly
emphasised with introduction of therapeutic milk in tins as of 2017 (previously in sachets), toavoid confusion with infant formula.

6.17 Average infant formula needs for an infant less than six months of age are RUIF: 750ml/day;
22.5L/month; 135L/6 months, and PIF: 116g/day; 3.5kg/month; 21kg/6 months73. Supplies
should have a six-month shelf-life from point of delivery.

Procurement of BMS supplies, feeding equipment and support
6.18 Where direct procurement of BMS is necessary, purchase necessary supplies. Considerations
regarding local versus international procurement include: Codex Alimentarius and Codecompliance of available product, stocks available in-country, cost, importation legislation,
appropriate language of labels and instruction, and safeguarding against creating new markets
for products.

6.19 Where BMS is provided indirectly, such as through restricted voucher schemes, determine if
Code-compliant products are available at designated vendors. Provide supporting
information if necessary to address labelling shortfalls and report such Code violations (see4.16 and 6.15). Monitor the price of products. Advise mothers and caregivers on appropriate
and inappropriate BMS for different age groups.

6.20 Where unrestricted cash transfer programmes are implemented and BMS is available, BMS
should not be excluded as an option for purchase by households support (see 5.25 and 6.25).
In such instances, accompany cash transfer programmes with strong messaging on the valueof breastfeeding, on recommended IYCF practices, and provide information on where all
infants can access IYCF support (where milk powder is commonly available, see 6.25).

6.21 Determine availability of fuel, water and equipment for safe household preparation of BMS(cleaning, sterilisation, reconstitution). If necessary, provide or enable access to the necessary
additional itemsll and support, including training on hygienic feed preparation. In
circumstances where safe preparation and use of infant formula cannot be assured, consider
on-site reconstitution and consumption or provision of communal preparation andsterilisation facilities. Where access to the population is limited or absent, consult with the IFE
coordination authority and technical agencies on how best to minimise risk while meeting thenutritional needs of non-breastfed infants (see 3.8).

6.22 Liaise with WASH provider agencies to secure priority access of families with infants using
BMS to WASH services and meet minimum standards. Enable access to cleaning equipment
and advice on hygienic preparation and storage of supplies. Where cleaning facilities arelimited or not available at a household level, provide central cleaning facilities.

6.23 Discourage use of feeding bottles and teats due to high risk of contamination and difficultywith cleaning. Support use of cups (without spouts) from birth. Cups with lids and disposable
cups may be necessary in transit situations. Immediate transition to cup feeding for bottle-fed
infants may not be feasible or acceptable to mothers/caretakers. In such circumstances, tominimise risks, advise on bottle sterilisation at household level or through on-site sterilisation
services, accompanied with hygiene messaging. Where cleaning facilities are limited, or intransit situations, consider exchanging used bottles for new ones as an exceptional andtemporary action, taking account of waste management implications and in consultation with
the IFE coordination authority.

73

See 204 in References Section 8.7 Artificial Feeding – BMS Supplies and Equipment

22

Distribution of BMS
6.24 The distribution system for BMS will depend on the context, including: scale of intervention;access points to mothers/caregivers; contact frequency; transportation; waste management;
and storage capacity of the provider. Options include direct supply, individual prescription andpurchase (e.g. cash transfer programmes). Distribution should be carried out in a discretemanner so as not to discourage breastfeeding mothers. At community level, be alert tounintended consequences of BMS use, such as sale of products.

6.25 Do not use general or blanket distributions as a platform to supply BMS (see 6.24). Dried
milk products and liquid milk should not be distributed as a single commodity in general or
blanket distributions as they may be used as a BMS, exposing both breastfed and non-breastfed
infants to risks. Dried milk products can be pre-mixed with a milled staple food for distribution
to use as a complementary food in children over six months of age. Where milk powder iscommonly used or widely available in a population, recommend and provide practical guidance
to incorporate into cooked family meals and advise against use as a BMS (see 5.15). Dried milk
powder may be supplied as a single commodity to prepare therapeutic milk for on-sitetherapeutic feeding. WFP in consultation with UNICEF and UNHCR is responsible forcontrolling the distribution of milk powders and BMS in general rations74 in accordance withthe provisions of the OG-IFE (see 5.25 for additional considerations regarding animal milk use).

6.26 In accordance with the Code, there should be no promotion of infant formula at the point of
distribution, including displays of products or items with company logos or logos on vouchers.
Storage of infant formula should not be in view of beneficiaries.

6.27 When BMS are distributed, ensure there is adequate breastfeeding counselling and support
for breastfeeding mothers. Consider distributing specific items of value to breastfeeding
mothers, such as food or hygiene products.

7

KEY CONTACTS

7.1

Report Code violations to relevant national authorities; to the IFE coordination authority; andto UNICEF and WHO at the country/regional level. If necessary, source WHO contacts from
WHO HQ: cah@who.int and nutrition@who.int. For UNICEF contacts, see: 7.3. Code violations
should also be reported for catalogue to the International Code Documentation Centre (ICDC)
in Malaysia: code@ibfan-icdc.org. To request training on the Code, contact ICDC Malaysia.
Visit: www.ibfan-icdc.org/report/ for online submission of violations (a template is provided) or
to download the Kobo Collect app (Android phone users via Google play) to submit violations.
A BMS Code violations tracking tool, including a template to monitor Code violations inemergencies, is available at: www.nutritioncluster.net/resources/bms-code-violationstracking-tool-nutrition-cluster/

7.2

Contacts to source expertise on breastfeeding counselling and support or on training for infant
feeding counselling include: UNICEF: nutrition@unicef.org; WHO: nutrition@who.int;
International Lactation Consultant Association (ILCA): ilca@erols.com; World Alliance forBreastfeeding Action (WABA): waba@waba.org.my; Geneva Infant Feeding Association –International Baby Food Action Network (IBFAN-GIFA): info@gifa.org

7.3

Technical or coordination issues relating to IFE should be addressed to the appropriate UNICEF
regional or country office. Where necessary, contact UNICEF at HQ level: nutrition@unicef.org

74

See 202 in References Section 8.7 Artificial Feeding – Roles and Responsibilities

23

7.4

Technical or coordination issues regarding IFE in the context of UNHCR operations should be
addressed to the appropriate UNHCR regional or country office. Where necessary, contact the
Public Health Section at UNHCR HQ: hqphn@unhcr.org

7.5

Issues regarding IFE specific to cluster coordination should be addressed to the nutrition
country cluster coordinator. Where necessary, contact the Global Nutrition Cluster:
gnc@unicef.org

7.6

Issues regarding IFE related to WFP food assistance programmes should be addressed to theappropriate WFP regional or country office. Where necessary, contact the WFP HQ Nutrition
Advisory Office: nutrition@wfp.org

7.7

Send feedback on the OG-IFE c/o UNICEF Programme Division, New York, USA:nutrition@unicef.org or c/o ENN, Oxford, UK, email: office@ennonline.net with ‘OG-IFE
feedback’ in the subject line.

Box 1: Emergency preparedness actions
This is a summary of preparedness actions contained in Sections 1-6 of the OG-IFE. Specific sections arenoted in Annex 1.
Endorse or develop policies
1. Ensure IFE is adequately reflected in relevant national policies, guidelines and procedures.
2. Ensure there is adequate policy provision for IFE regarding IDPs and refugees.
3. Develop national/sub-national preparedness plans on IFE.
4. Draft context-specific joint statements on IFE to enable rapid release.
5. Develop legally enforceable national regulations on the Code. Monitor and report Code violations.
6. Enact legislation and adopt policies in line with the WHO Guidance on Ending theInappropriate Promotion of Foods for Infants and Young Children.
7. Develop national legally binding policies regarding private sector engagement in emergency
response by UN, civil society and government policy-makers to enable constructive
collaboration and avoid undue influence and conflicts of interest.
8. Update policies, guidelines and procedures based on lessons learned from previous emergencies.
Train staff
1. Identify and sensitise key personnel involved in planning and delivering emergency response
regarding IFE.
2. Forecast capacity needs based on emergency scenarios.
3. Identify national capacity development needs on IYCF. Integrate context-specific training
content into existing curricula and delivery mechanisms.
4. Orientate and train relevant staff on IYCF support. Include key components of IFE and theCode in pre-service training of health professionals.
5. Map existing capacities for key areas, e.g. skilled breastfeeding support and translators, anddevelop key contact lists of existing national expertise.
6. Prepare orientation material for use in early emergency response.
7. Update training content based on lessons learned from emergency response.
Coordinate operations
1. Identify government leadership and coordination authority on IFE and support capacity
development to strengthen this responsibility as necessary.
2. Where government capacity is constrained, identify options for coordinated IFE response andleadership.
3. Develop terms of reference for IFE coordination in a response.
4. Raise public and professional awareness regarding recommended IYCF practices and benefits.
Develop an IFE communication strategy and plan for rapid implementation in an emergency.
Prepare easily adapted media briefs.
24

5. Engage development agencies and donors in preparedness planning that includes adaptationof existing programmes to meet emergency needs, negotiating funder flexibility to meet newneeds and priming sources of surge funding to accommodate increased demands.
6. Allocate funding to support monitoring, evaluation and learning.
7. Establish links with other sector focal points and coordination mechanisms, especially foodsecurity, health and WASH.
Assess and monitor
1. Develop a profile on IYCF practices and maternal and child nutrition to inform early decisionmaking in an emergency.
2. Ensure disaggregated data and recent reports are readily accessible.
3. Calculate the prevalence of non-breastfed infants less than six months old and at one year andtwo years old from existing data.
4. Prepare key questions to include in early needs assessment.
5. Identify existing and/or potential national/sub-national capacity to undertake IYCF assessment
and surveys.
6. Support government to develop policies and procedures to monitor for and act on Codeviolations. Monitor and report Code violations to relevant authorities.
7. Identify what existing monitoring and evaluation tools and systems can be applied in an
emergency context and agree any necessary adaptations.
Protect, promote and support optimal infant and young child feeding with integrated
multi-sector interventions
1. Actively promote and support recommended IYCF practices in the population.
2. Integrate the Ten Steps to Successful Breastfeeding of the WHO/UNICEF Baby-friendly Hospital
Initiative into maternity services.
3. Develop preparedness plans for interventions on breastfeeding support, complementary
feeding, artificial feeding and identification and management of particularly vulnerable children.
4. Identify key sector focal points in ministries and agencies to engage on programming.
5. Profile complementary foods and feeding practices, including existing nutrient gaps andculturally-sensitive response options, and mechanisms for scale-up and response in an
emergency context.
6. Identify supply chain for an appropriate BMS (if needed) and complementary foods.
7. Work to ensure that local/commercially produced complementary foods meet minimum
standards.
8. Examine national legislation related to food and drugs, particularly importation.
9. Anticipate likely need for and mechanisms to provide micronutrient supplementation to PLW
and children.
10. Develop plans for response and for transition post-emergency regarding IYCF interventions.
11. Identify existing or potential public health issues of nutrition concern and plan accordingly.
Minimise the risks of artificial feeding
1. Develop plans for prevention and management of donations of BMS, other milk products andfeeding equipment in an emergency.
2. Communicate government position on not seeking or accepting donations to key actors, including
country embassies, donors, development partners and civil society groups, among others.
3. Use scenarios to forecast potential artificial feeding needs in an emergency-affected
population and develop preparedness plans accordingly.
4. Establish systems for management of artificial feeding, including coordination authority (or atleast terms of reference), BMS supply chain and monitoring mechanisms.
Note: Programme preparedness actions (as well as response and recovery) are detailed in UNICEF Core Commitments
for Children in Humanitarian Action. UNICEF 2010. See 14 in References Section 8.2 Policy - Organisational Policy.

25

Notesa

A/RES/44/25, Convention on the Rights of the Child. 61st plenary meeting, 20 November
1989. www.un.org/documents/ga/res/44/a44r025.htm

b

WHO 59th World Health Assembly. 4 May 2006. A59/13. Provisional agenda item 11.8. WHA
59.21. http://innocenti15.net/declaration.htm.

chttps://sustainabledevelopment.un.org/dwww.who.int/nutrition/decade-of-action/en/ewaba.org.myfwww.llli.org

g

www.ilca.org

hwww.ibfan.org

i

www.humanitarianresponse.info/en/about-clusters/what-is-the-cluster-approachj

UNHCR Refugee Coordination Model.
www.unhcr.org/excom/icm/53679e2c9/unhcr-refugee-coordination-model.htmlk

For data purposes, the period 0-5 months is read as 0 through 5 months, meaning birth through
5.9 months, or ‘up to’ 6 months; it is a period of 6 completed months. In programming terms, this isreferred to as infants less than 6 months of age (see References Section 8.5 [75]).

l

As a guide, in a developing country population with a high birth rate the expected proportions are:infants 0-5 months: 1.35%; 6-11 months: 1.25%; children 12-23 months: 2.5%; children 0-59
months: 12.5%; pregnant and lactating women: 5-7%, depending on the average duration ofbreastfeeding. N.B. These figures are approximations and will depend on birth rate, infantmortality rate and under-five mortality rate.

m

http://mics.unicef.org/surveysn

http://dhsprogram.com/o

http://worldbreastfeedingtrends.org/

p

UNICEF Research and Reports: www.unicef.org/reports; WHO Global Database on
Malnutrition: www.who.int/nutgrowthdb/en/; UNICEF Data: https://data.unicef.org/

qwww.who.int/nutrition/nlis/en/r

www.alnap.org/resources/s

ACAPS Global Emergency Overview: www.acaps.org/countries;
Relief Web: http://reliefweb.int/countries;
Humanitarian Response Info: www.humanitarianresponse.info/en;
Humanitarian Data Exchange: https://data.humdata.org/;
RefWorld: www.refworld.org/type,COUNTRYPROF,,,,,0.html

tPrevention Web: www.preventionweb.net/riskuMortality rate among all age groups and due to all causes; typically expressed in units ofdeaths per 1,000 individuals per year.

v

The number of deaths of children under one year of age per 1,000 live births.

w

The number of children under five years of age dying per 1,000 live births in a given year.

x

There are no globally accepted benchmarks for exclusive breastfeeding and continued
breastfeeding alerts in an emergency. In their absence, the WHO 2025 Global Nutrition Target for26

exclusive breastfeeding was used. For continued breastfeeding, there is no such target. A 2016
UNICEF data review from low and middle-income countries identified a global average of 74%
continued breastfeeding at one year; therefore a benchmark of 70% was selected (see References
Section 8.5 [70)].
y

For example, Semi-Quantitative Evaluation of Access and Coverage:
www.fantaproject.org/monitoring-and-evaluation/squeac-sleac and footnote 40.

z

Nutrition Cluster BMS Code Violations Tracking Tool:
www.nutritioncluster.net/resources/bms-code-violations-tracking-tool-nutrition-cluster/
IBFAN-ICDC Reporting Form: https://vnhih.enketo.kobotoolbox.org/webformaa

Kangaroo Mother Care Toolkit: www.healthynewbornnetwork.org/kangaroo-mother-caretoolkit/

bb

Delayed umbilical cord clamping for improved maternal and infant health and nutrition
outcomes. WHO, 2014. www.who.int/nutrition/publications/guidelines/cord_clamping/en/

cc

WHO recommendations on interventions to improve preterm birth outcomes. WHO,2015. www.who.int/reproductivehealth/publications/maternal_perinatal_health/pretermbirth-guideline/en/

dd

Establishing an integrated human milk banking approach to strengthen newborn care.
DeMarchis A, Israel-Ballard K, Amundson Mansen K and Engmann C, 2016. Journal of
Perinatology. www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27831549
Strengthening Human Milk Banking: A Global Implementation Framework. Version 1.
PATH, 2013. www.path.org/publications/files/MCNH_haccp_training_workbook.pdf

eeKey conditions that need to be in place for the safe use of donor human milk in an emergency
are: government policy (preparedness) or, in the absence of policy, agreement between authorities
on its use; an estimate of need, defined eligibility criteria and duration of provision; adequacy of
supply for the response; quality assurance including donor screening and pasteurisation; and theestablishment and maintenance of a cold chain to preserve quality and safety.

ff

For an example of minimum screening for populations in transit, see References Section 8.6 [133].

gg

NutVal. www.nutval.net

hh

Non-breastfed children have heightened nutrient needs (see References Section 8.6 [119]).

ii

Clean with access to safe drinking water, handwashing facilities, safe faeces management,
accessible toilets, use of improved toilets and treated drinking water safely stored (seeReferences Section 8.6 [160-166]).

jj

Global guidance advises that national/sub-national authorities should decide the feeding practicethat gives infants and young children the greatest chance of HIV-free survival and support
mothers and caregivers accordingly. Recommended feeding practices to select in the context ofHIV are: a) breastfeed and receive anti-retroviral (ARV) drug interventions, or b) avoid allbreastfeeding and replacement feed. To make this decision, the appropriate authority should
balance HIV transmission risk versus other causes of child mortality. Considerations include: thesocioeconomic and cultural context; availability and quality of health services; HIV prevalence
among pregnant women; and main causes of maternal and child undernutrition and infant andchild mortality in the affected population (see References Section 8.6 [113-115]).

kk

Perinatal prophylaxis and post-partum ARV drugs for infants (see definitions) should be considered
where ARV supply to mothers is disrupted. This is a research gap area (see References Section
8.6 [115]).

ll

Safer BMS Kit. Save the Children, 2017.
https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B5uBNDhhrtqbamMyMFg2cldrM1U/view27

8

References

This selection of key references and resources is organised per the most relevant section of the OG-IFE.
Note that many are applicable to more than one section.

8.1
8.2

General
PolicyGlobal and National Strategy
Global Policy
Organisational Policy
Minimum Standards

8.3

Training
Counselling
Programming
Community
Assessment and Research
General Humanitarian Response

8.4

Coordination
Humanitarian Response Planning and Coordination
Communications and Advocacy

8.5

Assessment and Monitoring
Indicators
Age
Collecting Data (Assessment)
In-depth Assessment
Monitoring
Participation
Learning

8.6

Multi-sector Interventions
IYCF Counselling
Breastfeeding
Artificial FeedingSpecial Circumstances
Complementary Feeding
Maternal Nutrition
Micronutrients
Preparedness
IYCF-E Programming
Behaviour Change
Mainstreaming within Nutrition
Disability
GenderIntegration
WASH
Protection
Food Security and Livelihoods
Early Childhood Development

28

[1]
[1]
[2]–[7][8]–[12][13]–[22][23]–[25][26][27]–[34][35]–[40][41]–[48][49]–[50][51]–[54][55][56]–[57][58]–[67][68][69]–[73][74]–[75][76]–[80][81]–[87][88]–[92][93]–[94][95]–[96][97][98]–[101][102]–[108][109]–[110][111]–[116][117]–[120][121]–[122][123]–[128][129]–[130][131]–[136][137]–[140][141]–[149][150]–[153][154]–[156][157]–[159][160]–[166][167]–[169][170][171]–[174]8.7

Adolescents
Mental Health and Psychosocial Support
Maternal, Newborn and Child Health
Infectious Disease[175][176]–[181][182]–[186][187]–[192]

Artificial Feeding[193]-[194][195]–[197][198]–[201][202]–[203][204]

Minimising the Risk
Roles and Responsibilities
BMS Specification
BMS Supplies and Feeding Equipment

8.1 General
1.

IYCF-E Toolkit. Version 3. Save the Children, 2017. English, with core documents in Frenchand Arabic. A collection of information and practical resources to enable rapid start-up andimplementation of IYCF-E programmes in an emergency. This is a general resource whichspans all sections below; however particularly relevant resources are highlighted within eachsection. https://sites.google.com/site/stcehn/documents/iycf-e-toolkit-v3

8.2 Policy
Global and National Strategy
2.
3.

4.
5.

6.

7.

IYCF-E Toolkit. Version 3. Section A: Policy. Save the Children, 2017.
https://sites.google.com/site/stcehn/documents/iycf-e-toolkit-v3
Comprehensive implementation plan on maternal, infant and young child nutrition.
Action plan illustrating priority actions that should be jointly implemented by member states andinternational partners to achieve six global nutrition targets by 2025. WHO, 2014. Arabic, Chinese,
English, French, Russian, Spanish. www.who.int/nutrition/publications/CIP_document/en/
Guiding Principles for Feeding Infants and Young Children During Emergencies. World
Health Organization, 2004. English. http://whqlibdoc.who.int/hq/2004/9241546069.pdf
Global Strategy for IYCF. WHO and UNICEF, 2003. Arabic, Chinese, English, French, German,
Italian, Japanese, Russian, Spanish. Provides the main framework for WHO’s actions to promotebreastfeeding and complementary feeding.
www.who.int/nutrition/publications/infantfeeding/9241562218/en/
Planning Guide for National Implementation of the Global Strategy for IYCF. WHO and
UNICEF, 2007. English. Proposes a step-wise process to develop a country-specific strategy.
www.who.int/maternal_child_adolescent/documents/9789241595193/en/
Safeguarding against possible conflicts of interest in nutrition programmes: Approachfor the prevention and management of conflicts of interest in the policy development
and implementation of nutrition programmes at country level.
www.who.int/nutrition/publications/COI-report/en/

Global Policy
8.

9.

Policy Guidance: Priority Nutrition Interventions and Cross-Cutting Approaches in Latin
America and the Caribbean. The World Bank, 2011. English. Working paper describing priority
nutrition interventions and cross-cutting approaches that are essential to promote and protect
nutritional status of mothers and children as well as a country’s human capital in the short,medium and long terms. https://openknowledge.worldbank.org/bitstream/handle/10986/
23711/NonAsciiFileName0.pdf?sequence=1&isAllowed=y
The International Code of Marketing of Breast-milk Substitutes. WHO,1981 andsubsequent relevant World Health Assembly Resolutions (the Code – see definition). Arabic,
English, French, Spanish and many others. http://ibfan.org/the-full-code
29

10.

11.

12.

The International Code of Marketing of Breast-milk Substitutes – 2017 Update.
Frequently Asked Questions. WHO, 2017. Chinese, English, Russian, Spanish. Easy-to-readdetailed information on specific questions related to the Code.
www.who.int/nutrition/publications/infantfeeding/breastmilk-substitutes-FAQ2017/en/
WHA Resolution: Guidance on Ending the Inappropriate Promotion of Foods for Infants
and Young Children. 69th WHA A69/7 Add.1. 2016. English. Covers commercially produced
foods and beverages, including complementary foods marketed as suitable for feeding children up
to 36 months of age. http://apps.who.int/gb/ebwha/pdf_files/WHA69/A69_7Add1-en.pdf
WHA Resolution on the Inappropriate Promotion of Foods for Infants and YoungChildren: Policy Brief. World Health Organization, UNICEF, Save the Children, IBFAN, & Helen
Keller International, 2016. English. http://archnutrition.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/
011917_HKI_WHABrief_v3-with-date-1.pdf

Organisational Policy
13.
14.

15.
16.
17.
18.
19.
20.
21.

22.

Model Joint Statement on IFE. IFE Core Group, 2017. English. Generic statement foradaptation. www.ennonline.net/modelifejointstatement
Core Commitments for Children in Humanitarian Action. UNICEF, 2010. Global frameworkfor humanitarian action for children undertaken by UNICEF and its partners.
www.unicef.org/publications/files/CCC_042010.pdf
Global Nutrition Targets 2025: Breastfeeding Policy Brief. WHO and UNICEF, 2014. English.
www.who.int/nutrition/publications/globaltargets2025_policybrief_breastfeeding/en/
IFE Generic Policy. IFE Core Group, 2008. An example of an IFE policy based on the Operational
Guidance. www.ennonline.net/ifegenericpolicy
IYCF-E Position Paper 2.0. ACF, 2016. English. www.actionagainsthunger.org/publication/
2016/02/infant-and-young-child-feeding-emergencies-iycf-e-position-paper-20
IYCF-E Position Paper. ILCA, 2014. English. http://waba.org.my/pdf/ilca-iycf-emergencies.pdf
IYCF-E Position Paper. Save the Children, 2016. English.
https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B5uBNDhhrtqbNndidU91Ym1hNGM/view
Milk Policy. World Vision, 2011. English. www.wvi.org/nutrition/publication/milk-policy
Sample Infant Feeding Policies. UNICEF UK. English. Sample maternity, health visiting andneonatal policies and self-assessment checklists which reflect Baby Friendly Standards.
www.unicef.org.uk/babyfriendly/baby-friendly-resources/guidance-for-health-professionals/
tools-and-forms-for-health-professionals/sample-infant-feeding-policies/
UNHCR Policy Related to the Acceptance, Distribution, and Use of Milk Products in
Refugee Settings. UNHCR, ENN, IFE Core Group and the Institute of Child Health, 2006.
www.unhcr.org/uk/publications/operations/4507f7842/unhcr-policy-related-acceptancedistribution-use-milk-products-refugee.html

Minimum Standards
23.

24.

25.

Core Humanitarian Standard on Quality and Accountability (CHS). CHS Alliance, Groupe
URD and The SPHERE Project, 2014. Arabic, English, French, Spanish and many others. A
voluntary code that describes the essential elements of principled, accountable and quality
humanitarian action. https://corehumanitarianstandard.org/the-standard
The Code of Conduct for the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement and NonGovernmental Organisations in Disaster Relief. IFCR, 1994. Arabic, English, French, Spanishand other languages. https://media.ifrc.org/ifrc/who-we-are/the-movement/code-of-conduct/
The Sphere Handbook. 2011. Arabic, English, French and many other languages. Includes
IYCF-E Standards. Revised version out in 2018. www.sphereproject.org/handbook

8.3 Training
26.
30

IYCF-E Toolkit. Version 3. Section G: Orientation and Training. Save the Children, 2017.
https://sites.google.com/site/stcehn/documents/iycf-e-toolkit-v3 Counselling

27.

28.

29.

30.

31.

32.

33.

34.

Breastfeeding Counselling: A Training Course. UNICEF and WHO, 1993. English, French,
Russian and Spanish. Aimed at health workers.
www.who.int/maternal_child_adolescent/documents/who_cdr_93_3/en/
Breastfeeding E-Learning Modules. Toronto Public Health. English. 12 online modules aimed
at supporting health care professionals to provide evidence-based breastfeeding services andcreate a baby friendly environment. www1.toronto.ca/wps/portal/contentonly?vgnextoid=
46bdf87775c24410VgnVCM10000071d60f89RCRD
Combined Course on Growth Assessment and IYCF Counselling. WHO, 2012. English. Aimedat health workers in PHC setting and lay counsellors. www.who.int/nutrition/publications/infantfeeding/9789241504812/en/Complementary Feeding Counselling: A Training Course. WHO, 2004. English. For healthworkers who work with caregivers of young children from 6 to 24 months of age.
www.who.int/nutrition/publications/infantfeeding/9241546522/en/
Infant Feeding in Emergencies Module 2 for Health and Nutrition Worker in Emergency
Situations for Training, Practice and Reference. Version 1.1. Aims to provide those directly
involved with infants and carers with the basic knowledge and skills to support safe andappropriate IYCF. ENN, IBFAN-GIFA, Fondation Terre des Hommes, CARE USA, Action Contre laFaim, UNICEF, UNHCR, WHO, WFP, Linkages, 2007. Arabic, Bahasa, English, French.
www.ennonline.net/ifemodule2
IYCF Counselling: An Integrated Course. UNICEF, 2006. English, Spanish and Russian. Note:
This five-day course does not replace the Breastfeeding Counselling (24) and Complementary
Feeding Counselling (27) courses, but is an integrated course to equip health workers and lay
counsellors with time limitations with the necessary basics.
www.who.int/nutrition/publications/infantfeeding/9789241594745/en/
IYCF: Model Chapter for Textbooks for Medical Students and Allied Health Professionals.
WHO, 2009. English and Spanish. Basic training on essential knowledge and basic skills for healthprofessional working with mothers and young children.
www.who.int/nutrition/publications/infantfeeding/9789241597494/en/
Online Videos. Global Health Media. English, French, Spanish and many other languages.
Training aids: Breastfeeding and Small Baby series. https://globalhealthmedia.org/videos/Programming
35.

36.

37.

38.

39.
40.

Designing for Behaviour Change: For Agriculture, Natural Resource Management, Healthand Nutrition. TOPS and Core Group, 2013. English, French and Spanish. Six-day curriculum.
www.fsnnetwork.org/designing-behavior-change-agriculture-natural-resource-managementhealth-and-nutrition
Harmonised Training Package (HTP) Module 17: IYCF. Version 2. ENN and Nutrition Works.
2011. English. A resource for trainers in the Nutrition in Emergencies (NiE) sector, can also be usedby individuals to increase their technical knowledge of the sector.
www.ennonline.net/htpv2module17
IYCF-E Orientation Package. Emergency Nutrition Network and IFE Core Group, 2010.
English. Targeted at emergency relief staff, programme managers and technical staff involved inplanning and responding to emergencies at national and international level. www.ennonline.net/
iycfeorientationpackage Includes e-learning at http://lessons.ennonline.net/
IYCF-E 5-Day Training Course. Save the Children, 2017. English and French. Adaptable training
course aimed at developing the skills and knowledge needed to establish and implement IYCF-E
programmes in line with agreed sector-wide approaches and standards.
https://sites.google.com/site/stcehn/documents/iycf-e-training
Programming for IYCF – a Training Course. UNICEF and Cornell University. E-learning aimed
at programme managers. English. www.nutritionworks.cornell.edu/UNICEF/about/Public Health Guide for Emergencies. Chapter 9: Food Security and Nutrition in31

Emergencies. Second Edition. The Johns Hopkins and IFRC and Red Crescent Societies, 2008.
English. Reference manual on the management of emergency nutrition field situations forhumanitarian workers and medical professionals.
http://foodsecuritycluster.net/document/food-security-emergencies

Community
41.

42.

43.

44.

45.

46.

47.

48.

Caring for Newborns and Children in the Community. Package of Resources. WHO, 2015.
English. Consists of three courses aimed at increasing the coverage of household and community
interventions that will reduce newborn and child mortality and promote healthy growth anddevelopment, including through IYCF. Includes counselling cards and photo booklet.
www.who.int/maternal_child_adolescent/documents/community-care-newborns-children/en/
Engaging Grandmothers to Improve Nutrition: A training manual and guide for
dialogue group mentors. IYCN, 2011. English and Portuguese. Designed for training
grandmothers to serve as dialogue group mentors for discussions on family care and maternal andchild nutrition. www.iycn.org/resource/engaging-grandmothers-to-improve-nutrition-atraining-manual-and-guide-for-dialogue-group-mentors/
IYCF and Gender: A training manual and participant manual for male group leaders.
IYCN, 2011. English. For training male group leaders to share information and encourage
discussions on gender roles related to IYCF practices. www.iycn.org/resource/infant-and-youngchild-feeding-and-gender-trainers-manual-and-participants-manual/Measuring and Promoting Child Growth. World Vision, 2011. English. Three-day training on
community-level growth monitoring and promotion. www.wvi.org/nutrition/publication/measuring-and-promoting-child-growth
Mobilizing Communities for Improved Nutrition: A manual and Guide for Training
Community Leaders. IYCN, 2011. English and Portuguese. Step-by-step instructions forfacilitating a one-day workshop with community leaders. www.iycn.org/resource/mobilizingcommunities-for-improved-nutrition-a-training-manual-and-participant-manual-forcommunity-leaders/
Mother-to-Mother Support Groups: Trainer’s Manual and Facilitator’s Manual with
Discussion Guide. IYCN, 2011. English and Portuguese. For training mother-to-mother support
group facilitators to lead participatory discussions on maternal, infant, and young child nutrition.
www.iycn.org/resource/mother-to-mother-support-groups-trainer%E2%80%99s-manual-andfacilitator%E2%80%99s-manual/
Supportive Supervision / Mentoring and Monitoring for Community IYCF. UNICEF, 2013.
English. One-day training; includes adaptable tools and monitoring forms.
www.fsnnetwork.org/supportive-supervisionmentoring-and-monitoring-community-iycf
The Community IYCF Counselling Package. UNICEF, 2013. English and French. Generic tools
for local adaptation; includes counselling cards. www.unicef.org/nutrition/index_58362.html
Assessment and Research

Assessment and Research
49.

50.

32

Introduction to Qualitative Research Methodology: A Training Manual. Aimed primarily at
non-social scientists working in low and middle-income settings. Kielmann, K., Cataldo, F. andSeeley, J. – DFID, 2012. English. www.gov.uk/dfid-research-outputs/introduction-toqualitative-research-methodology
Humanitarian Needs Assessment Training. Harvard Humanitarian Initiative, 2016. English.
E-learning. http://hhi.harvard.edu/elearning/humanitarian-needs-assessment-training
General Humanitarian Response

General Humanitarian Response
51.

52.

53.
54.

Building a Better Response. The Humanitarian Academy at Harvard. English. E-learning forunderstanding the structure and function of the international humanitarian architecture.
http://hhi.harvard.edu/education/bbr
Communicating with Disaster Affected Communities. CDAC Network. English. E-learning
about key components of effective communication with crisis-affected communities.
www.cdacnetwork.org/learning-centre/e-learning/
Disaster Ready. Online learning library. Arabic, French, Spanish. www.disasterready.org/
Harvard Humanitarian Initiative E-Learning. http://hhi.harvard.edu/resources#e-learning

8.4 Coordination
55.

IYCF-E Toolkit. Version 3. Section 1: Coordination and Communications. Arabic, English andFrench, 2017. https://sites.google.com/site/stcehn/documents/iycf-e-toolkit-v3/iycf-e-toolkitenglish

Humanitarian Response Planning and Coordination
56.
57.

Nutrition Cluster Handbook: A Practical Guide for Country-Level Action. Global Nutrition
Cluster, 2017. English. Under revision. http://nutritioncluster.net/
Tips on Nutrition Interventions for the Humanitarian Response Plan. Nutrition Cluster,
2016. English. Provides tips for nutrition clusters to facilitate the planning of a collective response
and the development of Nutrition in Emergencies (including IYCF-E) interventions.
http://nutritioncluster.net/resources/hrp-tips/

Communications and Advocacy
58.
59.
60.
61.
62.

63.

64.
65.
66.

67.

Advocacy Toolbox. Alive and Thrive. English. http://aliveandthrive.org/resources-mainpage/tools-library/advocacy-select-design-tools/
Breastfeeding Advocacy Initiative: For the Best Start in Life. WHO and UNICEF, 2016.
www.who.int/nutrition/publications/infantfeeding/breastfeeding_advocacy_initiative/en
Breastfeeding Series. The Lancet, 2016. English. http://thelancet.com/series/breastfeeding
From the First Hour of Life: A New Report on IYCF. UNICEF, 2016. English, French, Spanish.
https://data.unicef.org/resources/first-hour-life-new-report-breastfeeding-practices/
IYCF-E Orientation Video. Save the Children, 2017. English. A three-minute introductory
video aimed at laypersons involved with the European Refugee Crisis. Also applicable to othercrises. www.youtube.com/watch?v=VjckXow0aWU
Importance of IYCF-E Programming Video. Save the Children, 2017. English. A three-minutevideo explaining why IYCF-E is important, what constitutes optimal IYCF practices and how optimal
IYCF-E programming can be implemented. https://sites.google.com/site/stcehn/documents/iycfe-videos
Mass Communication Toolbox. Alive and Thrive. English. http://aliveandthrive.org/resourcesmain-page/tools-library/mass-communication-featured-tools/
Media Guide on IYCF-E. IFE Core Group, 2007. Arabic, English, French, German, Italian andSpanish: www.ennonline.net/iycfmediaguideSupporting Breastfeeding in Emergencies: Protecting Women’s Reproductive Rights andMaternal and Infant Health. Gribble, K., McGrath, M., MacLaine, A., Lhotska, L. (2011)www.ibfan.org/art/2011-Supporting_breastfeeding_emergencies_Disasters.pdf
See also: 13 (Joint Statement).

8.5 Assessment and Monitoring
68.

IYCF-E Toolkit. Version 3. Section B: Assessing the Need. Save the Children, 2017.
https://sites.google.com/site/stcehn/documents/iycf-e-toolkit-v3/iycf-e-toolkit-english
33

Indicators
69.
70.

71.

72.

73.

Humanitarian Indicators Registry. English. A guidance tool to select indicators.
www.humanitarianresponse.info/en/applications/ir
Indicators for Assessing IYCF Practices. Part 1: Definitions. WHO, UNICEF, USAID, AED,UCDAVIS, IFPRI, 2008. English, French and Spanish.
www.who.int/nutrition/publications/infantfeeding/9789241596664/en/
Indicators for assessing breastfeeding practices. WHO, 1991. English and French. Meeting
report outlining consensus reached on indicators derived from household survey data.
www.who.int/maternal_child_adolescent/documents/cdd_ser_91_14/en/
From-the-first-hour-of-life. Making the case for improved infant and young childfeeding everywhere. UNICEF 2016. http://data.unicef.org/topic/nutrition/infant-and-youngchild-feeding/
See also: 57 (Tips on Nutrition Interventions)

Age
74.
75.

Guidelines for Estimating the Month and Year of Birth of Young Children. FAO, 2008.
English. www.fao.org/docrep/011/aj984e/aj984e00.htm
Talking about Child Age: A Briefing. IFE Core Group, 2012. English. Aimed at improving
understanding and accuracy of using age in surveys and when talking to mothers.
www.ennonline.net/iycfandchildage

Collecting Data (Assessment)
76.

77.

78.
79.

80.

Fact Sheet on IYCF Practices Assessment in Emergencies. Tech RRT, 2016. English andFrench. www.nutritioncluster.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/4/2016/12/TechRRTIYCFassesmentfactsheet.pdf
Indicators for Assessing IYCF Practices. Part 2: Measurement. WHO, UNICEF, USAID, AED,UCDAVIS, IFPRI, 2010. English, French. Tools and explanation for the collection of indicators.
www.who.int/nutrition/publications/infantfeeding/9789241599290/en/
IYCF Practices. Collecting and Using Data: A Step-by-Step Guide. Care, 2010. Includes
generic questionnaire. English. www.ennonline.net/iycfdataguide
The Use of Epidemiological Tools in Conflict-Affected Populations. LSHTM. Shortdiscussions of various key topics in field epidemiology as applied to humanitarian emergencies.
Includes Ethical Issues in Data Collection. http://conflict.lshtm.ac.uk/page_02.htm
World Breastfeeding Trends. WBTi. English. Reports on the state of IYCF policy andprogramming in 84 countries. http://worldbreastfeedingtrends.org/country-report-wbti/

In-depth Assessment
81.
82.
83.

84.

85.
34

A Guide to Using Qualitative Research Methodology. MSF-OCA and LSHTM, 2007. English.
http://hdl.handle.net/10144/84230
A Practical Guide to Conducting Barrier Analysis. Bonnie Kittle, 2013. Arabic, English,
French and Spanish. www.fsnnetwork.org/practical-guide-conducting-barrier-analysis
Conducting KAP Surveys: A Learning Document Based on KAP Failures. ACF, 2013.
English. www.actionagainsthunger.org/publication/2013/01/conducting-kap-surveyslearning-document-based-kap-failures
Formative Research: A Guide to Support the Collection and Analysis of Qualitative Datafor Integrated Maternal and Child Nutrition Programme Planning. CARE, 2014. English.
Basic information and tools needed to conduct and analyse qualitative research, in particular to
improve MIYCN combined with household food security interventions.
www.fsnnetwork.org/formative-research-guide-support-collection-and-analysis-qualitativedata-integrated-maternal-and
Guidelines for Assessing Nutrition-Related Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices. FAO,
2014. English. www.fao.org/docrep/019/i3545e/i3545e00.htm

86.

87.

Standardised Expanded Nutrition Survey (SENS) Guidelines for Refugee Populations.
Module 3: IYCF. Version 2. UNHCR, 2013. English. Standardised methodology to conduct annual
nutrition surveys. http://sens.unhcr.org/introduction/module-3-iycf/
The Basics: Planning for Formative Research for Infant and Young Child Feeding
Practices. IYCN, 2011. English. Intended to assist researchers who are already familiar withformative research methods in conducting formative assessments for IYCF programmes.
www.iycn.org/resource/the-basics-planning-for-formative-research-for-infant-and-youngchild-feeding-practices/

Monitoring
88.

89.

90.

91.

92.

Counselling Supervision Checklist and Guidelines. IYCN, 2011. English. A tool for supervisors
to measure health workers’ knowledge and record their behaviours during counselling sessions.
www.iycn.org/resource/counseling-supervision-checklist-and-guidelines/
Exit Interview Questionnaire and Guidelines. IYCN, 2011. English. Assists programmemanagers in assessing the quality of counselling services and client satisfaction.
www.iycn.org/resource/exit-interview-questionnaire-and-guidelines/
IYCF Practices Monitoring Tool and Guide. IYCN, 2011. English. Tool for community workers to
track individual behaviours and help monitor progress in achieving key IYCF behaviours.
www.iycn.org/resource/infant-and-young-child-feeding-practices-monitoring-tool-and-guide/
IYCF-E Toolkit. Version 3. Section H: Monitoring and Supervision. Arabic, English andFrench, 2017. https://sites.google.com/site/stcehn/documents/iycf-e-toolkit-v3/iycf-e-toolkitenglish
Multi-Sectoral Monitoring & Evaluation Guidelines. ACF, 2016. English and French.
www.actionagainsthunger.org/publication/2016/08/multi-sectoral-monitoring-evaluation

Participation
93.

94.

Participation Handbook for Humanitarian Field Workers – Involving Crisis Affected
People in Humanitarian Response. ALNAP and Groupe URD, 2009. English.
www.urd.org/Participation-Handbook
Community Driven Participation in Humanitarian Relief Programming. ACF, 2006. English.
www.actionagainsthunger.org/publication/2006/06/community-driven-participationhumanitarian-relief-programming-practical-manual

Learning
95.

96.

A Guide to Developing a Knowledge Management Strategy for a Food Security andNutrition Programme. TOPS and FSN Network, 2016. English. Practical guidance for staff at
different levels on developing a strategy that focuses on improving performance and quality of
implementation. www.fsnnetwork.org/guide-developing-knowledge-management-strategyfood-security-and-nutrition-program
Toolbox: Strategic Use of Data. Alive and Thrive. English. http://aliveandthrive.org/resourcesmain-page/tools-library/strategic-use-of-data-featured-tools/

8.6 Multi-sector Interventions
97.

IYCF-E Toolkit. Version 3. D: Programme Planning & Reporting. Save the Children, 2017.
https://sites.google.com/site/stcehn/documents/iycf-e-toolkit-v3/iycf-e-toolkit-english

IYCF Counselling
98.
99.

Individual Level Rapid and Full IYCF Assessment. A selection of various assessment forms –may need to be adapted to local context and programming. www.ennonline.net/specific ENN
Responsive Feeding Info Sheet. UNICEF UK BFI. English. Covers both responsive breastfeeding
and bottle-feeding. www.unicef.org.uk/babyfriendly/baby-friendly-resources/guidance-for35

100.
101.

health-professionals/implementing-the-baby-friendly-standards/further-guidance-onimplementing-the-standards/responsive-feeding-infosheet/
See also: 27 (Counselling). (Breastfeeding E-Learning Modules; Module 2, Part 3 – Assessment ofMother/Child Pair.)See also: 8.3 (Training).

Breastfeeding
102.
103.
104.

105.
106.
107.
108.

B-R-E-A-S-T Observation Form. English.
https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B5uBNDhhrtqbY09UVmcxbF9uUk0/view
Breastfeeding Answers. La Leche League. English. Various resources covering a variety ofbreastfeeding issues. www.llli.org/nb.html
Breastfeeding Assessment Tools. UNICEF UK BFI. English. Tools for mothers, midwives andcommunity health workers. www.unicef.org.uk/babyfriendly/baby-friendlyresources/guidance-for-health-professionals/tools-and-forms-for-healthprofessionals/breastfeeding-assessment-tools/
Clinical Protocols. Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine. English. Guidelines for clinicians.
www.bfmed.org/Resources/Protocols.aspx
Handling and Storage of Human Milk. CDC, 2016. English.
www.cdc.gov/breastfeeding/recommendations/handling_breastmilk.htm
How to Keep Your Breast Pump Kit Clean: The Essentials. CDC, 2017. English and Spanish.
www.cdc.gov/healthywater/hygiene/healthychildcare/infantfeeding/breastpump.html
Relactation: Review of Experiences and Recommendations for Practice. WHO, 1998.
English, French and Spanish.
www.who.int/maternal_child_adolescent/documents/who_chs_cah_98_14/en/

Artificial Feeding
109.
110.

Acceptable Medical Reasons for the Use of BMS. WHO, 2009. English, Spanish andPortuguese. www.who.int/maternal_child_adolescent/documents/WHO_FCH_CAH_09.01/en/
Infant Formula Resources. UNICEF UK BFI. English. Includes guidance for parents and healthworkers. www.unicef.org.uk/babyfriendly/baby-friendly-resources/leaflets-and-posters/guideinfant-formula-parents-bottle-feeding/Special Circumstances
111.

112.

113.

114.

115.

36

Checklist for determining HIV status for children 0 – 59 months with SAM. English.
UNICEF, 2015. http://unicefinemergencies.com/downloads/eresource/docs/HIVAIDS/HIV%20Status%20Checklist%20logo.pdf
Guidelines on optimal feeding of low birth-weight infants in low- and middle-income countries.
WHO, 2011. English. Recommendations on what to feed low birth weight infants, when to startfeeding, how to feed, how often and how much to feed.
www.who.int/maternal_child_adolescent/documents/infant_feeding_low_bw/en/
Guidelines on HIV and Infant Feeding: Principles and recommendations for infant
feeding in the context of HIV and a summary of evidence. WHO, 2010. English.
www.who.int/maternal_child_adolescent/documents/9789241599535/en/
Guideline Updates on HIV and Infant Feeding. WHO and UNICEF, 2016. The 2016 guideline
does not reflect all WHO recommendations related to HIV and infant feeding but only the areas towhich the WHO Guideline Development Group gave priority for updating. The recommendations
included in the WHO 2010 guidelines on HIV and infant feeding remain valid except as noted in the2016 update. English. www.who.int/maternal_child_adolescent/documents/hiv-infantfeeding-2016/en/
HIV and Infant Feeding in Emergencies: Operational Guidance. WHO, 2017.

116.

Community Management of Uncomplicated Acute Malnutrition in Infants < 6 Months ofAge (C-MAMI Tool). Version 1. ENN and LSHTM, 2015. English. www.ennonline.net/c-mami

Complementary Feeding
117.

118.
119.

120.

Current and Potential Role of Specially Formulated Foods and Food Supplements forpreventing malnutrition among 6-23 month old children and for treating moderatemalnutrition among 6- to 59-month old children. De Pee, S., and Bloem, M., 2009. English.
www.who.int/nutrition/publications/moderate_malnutrition/FNBv30n3_suppl_paper4.pdf
Guiding Principles for Complementary Feeding of the Breastfed Child. PAHO and WHO, 2003.
English. www.who.int/nutrition/publications/guiding_principles_compfeeding_breastfed.pdf
Guiding Principles for Feeding Non-Breastfed Children 6-24 months of age. WHO, 2005.
English, French, Spanish.
www.who.int/maternal_child_adolescent/documents/9241593431/en/
Revised Codex Alimentarius Guidelines on Formulated Complementary Foods for Older
Infants and Young Children. Codex, 2013. English.
www.fao.org/input/download/standards/298/CXG_008e.pdf

Maternal Nutrition
121.

122.

Maternal Nutrition Dietary Guide. LINKAGES. English.
www.coregroup.org/storage/documents/Workingpapers/MaternalNutritionDietaryGuide_AED.
pdf
Maternal Nutrition for Women and Girls. Technical Guidance Brief. USAID, 2014. English.
www.usaid.gov/sites/default/files/documents/1864/maternal-nutrition-for-girls-women-508-3.pdf

Micronutrients
123.

124.

125.

126.

127.

128.

Dealing with Diarrhoea in Children in Refugee, Emergency and Development Situationsin The Context of Micronutrient Powder Use. Technical Brief. WFP and DSM, 2010. English.
www.hftag.org/assets/downloads/hftag/MNP_brief_Diarrhoea_use.pdf
Joint Statement on Preventing and Controlling Micronutrient Deficiencies in Populations
affected by an Emergency. WHO, WFP and UNICEF, 2007. English.
www.who.int/nutrition/publications/micronutrients/WHO_WFP_UNICEFstatement.pdf?ua=1
UNHCR Operational Guidance on the Use of Special Nutritional Products to Reduce
Micronutrient Deficiencies and Malnutrition in Refugee Populations. UNHCR, UCL, ENN,
2011. English. www.unhcr.org/uk/publications/operations/4f1fc3de9/unhcr-operationalguidance-use-special-nutritional-pn roducts-reduce-micronutrient.html
Use of Multiple Micronutrient Powders for Point-of-Use Fortification of Foods Consumed
by Infants and Young Children aged 6-23 months and children aged 2-12 years:
Guideline. WHO, 2016. English. www.who.int/nutrition/publications/micronutrients/
guidelines/mmpowders-infant6to23mons-children2to12yrs/en/
Vitamin A supplementation for infants and children 6-59 months of age. WHO, 2011.
Arabic, English, Chinese, French.
www.who.int/nutrition/publications/micronutrients/guidelines/vas_6to59_months/en/
Use of multiple micronutrient powders for point-of-use fortification of foods consumed
by pregnant women. WHO, 2016. English.www.who.int/nutrition/publications/micronutrients/guidelines/ mmpowders_pregnant_women/en/

Preparedness
129.

130.

Emergency Preparedness for those who care for Infants in Developed Country Contexts.
Gribble, K. and Berry, N., 2011. English. https://internationalbreastfeedingjournal.
biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/1746-4358-6-16
See also: 8.2 (Policy) (Including UNICEF Core Commitments to Children). IYCF-E Programming
37

131.

132.

133.

134.
135.
136.

Baby Friendly Spaces: Holistic Approach for Pregnant, Lactating Women and their very
young children in Emergency. ACF, 2014. English from:www.actionagainsthunger.org/publication/2014/12/baby-friendly-spaces-technical-manual
Care Groups: A Reference Guide for Practitioners. TOPS, Food for the Hungry, CORE Groupand World Relief, 2016. English. www.fsnnetwork.org/care-groups-reference-guidepractitioners
Interim Operational Considerations for the Feeding Support of Infants and YoungChildren under 2 years of Age in Refugee and Migrant Transit Settings in Europe.
UNICEF, UNHCR, Save the Children, ENN, 2015. English and Greek from:www.ennonline.net/interimconsiderationsiycftransit
IYCF Programming Guide. UNICEF, 2011. English.
www.unicef.org/nutrition/files/Final_IYCF_programming_guide_2011.pdf
IYCF-E Guidance for Programming. ECHO, 2014. English.
https://ec.europa.eu/echo/files/media/publications/2014/toolkit_nutrition_en.pdf
The CDC Guide to Support Breastfeeding Mothers and Babies. CDC, 2013 English.
Describes evidence based interventions. www.cdc.gov/breastfeeding/pdf/bf-guide-508.pdf

Behaviour Change
137.
138.

139.

140.

Behaviour Change Communication in Emergencies: A Toolkit. UNICEF ROSA, 2006. English.
www.unicef.org/ceecis/BCC_full_pdf.pdf
Improving Exclusive Breastfeeding Practices by using Communication for Development
in IYCF Programmes. UNICEF, 2010. English. http://nutritioncluster.net/wpcontent/uploads/sites/4/2013/12/C4D-in-EBF-manual-6-15-2010-final.pdf
Make Me a Change Agent: A Multisectoral SBC Resource for Community Workers andField Staff. TOPS and CORE Group, 2015. English, French and Spanish. Aimed at building skillsof community level workers to be more effective behaviour change promoters.
www.fsnnetwork.org/ make-me-change-agent-multisectoral-sbc-resource-communityworkers-and-field-staff
Toolbox: Interpersonal Communication and Community Mobilisation. Alive and Thrive.
English. http://aliveandthrive.org/resources-main-page/tools-library/interpersonalcommunication-and-community-mobilization-featured-tools/

Mainstreaming within Nutrition
141.

142.

143.

144.

145.

38

CMAM Toolkit. Version 3. Save the Children, 2017. English, French. A collection of tools andresources needed to begin implementation of CMAM programmes, including tools to assist in the
integration of IYCF-E activities into a CMAM programme.
https://sites.google.com/site/stcehn/management-of-acute-malnutrition/cmamtoolkitv2
Essential Nutrition Actions: Improving Maternal, Newborn, Infant and Young Child
Health and Nutrition. WHO, 2013. English and Farsi. Compact of WHO guidance on nutritioninterventions targeting the first 1000 days of life.
www.who.int/nutrition/publications/infantfeeding/essential_nutrition_actions/en/
Guideline: updates on the management of severe acute malnutrition in infants andchildren. WHO, 2013. This guideline presents the updated evidence and practice for key
interventions and will also serve to inform revisions of the 1999 manual. www.who.int/nutrition/
publications/guidelines/updates_management_SAM_infantandchildren/en/
Guidelines for the integrated management of severe acute malnutrition: in- and outpatient treatment. ACF, 2011. English. www.actionagainsthunger.org/sites/default/files/
publications/Guidelines_For_the_integrated_management_of_severe_acute_malnutrition_In_and_out_patient_treatment_12.2011.pdf
Integration of IYCF Support into CMAM. ENN and IFE Core Group, 2009. Includes training
materials. www.ennonline.net/integrationiycfintocmam

146.

147.

148.

149.

Management of severe malnutrition: a manual for physicians and other senior healthworkers. Geneva, World Health Organisation,1999. Full text in English:
www.who.int/nutrition/publications/severemalnutrition/9241545119/en/
Moderate Acute Malnutrition: A Decision Tool for Emergencies. MAM Task Force, 2014.
English. http://nutritioncluster.net/resources/moderate-acute-malnutrition-decision-toolemergencies-2014/
Nutrition Programme Design Assistant: A Tool for Program Planners. Version 2. CORE
Group Nutrition Working Group, FANTA and Save the Children, 2015. English. Helps program
planning teams select appropriate community-based nutrition approaches for specific target areas.
Includes a workbook. www.coregroup.org/resources/490-nutrition-program-design-assistant-atool-for-program-planners-version-2
NUTVAL. An ExCel application for use and planning and monitoring food aid rations.
www.nutval.net.

Disability
150.

151.

152.
153.

Disabilities Among Refugees and Conflict Affected Populations: Resource Kit for Field
Workers. WRC, 2008. English. www.womensrefugeecommission.org/joomlatoolsfiles/docman-files/disability_toolkit_02-10_web.pdf
Disability and Emergency Risk Management for Health. Guidance Note. UNICEF, WHO,
UNISDR, CBM, ICRC and IOM, 2013. English.
http://apps.who.int/iris/bitstream/10665/90369/1/9789241506243_eng.pdf?ua=1
Including Children and Adolescents with Disabilities in Humanitarian Action. Nutrition
Guidance. UNICEF. http://training.unicef.org/disability/emergencies/nutrition.html
Minimum Standards and Guidelines on Age and Disability in Emergencies. ADCAP, 2015.
English. www.unicefinemergencies.com/downloads/eresource/docs/Disability/
Minimum_Standards_for_Age_and_Disability_Inclusion_in_Humanitarian_Action.pdf

Gender
154.
155.

156.

Breastfeeding and Gender Equality: Advocacy Brief. UNICEF and WHO, 2016. English.
www.unicef.org/nutrition/files/BAI_bf_gender_brief_final.pdf
Gender Marker Tip Sheet: Nutrition. IASC, 2011. English. To help design quality nutrition
projects that reflect the distinct needs of women, girls, boys and men. www.fsnnetwork.org/iascgender-marker-tip-sheets-nutrition-and-food-security
See also: 43 (IYCF and Gender).

Integration
157.

158.

159.

Development Sector Adjacency Map: A Planning Tool for Integrated Development. FHI
360. English. Planning tool to help those working in a certain sector determine which adjacencies
are important to consider. https://www.fhi360.org/resource/development-sector-adjacencymap-planning-tool-integrated-development
IYCF Framework. UNHCR and Save the Children, 2017. English and French. Guidance on whatneeds to be considered to create an IYCF-E Friendly environment and facilitate recommended IYCFE practices in refugee situations, with practical examples of multi-sector integration of IYCFsensitive activities and how IYCF can contribute to the priorities of different sectors.
www.unhcr.org/nutrition-and-food-security
IYCF Framework Video. UNHCR and Save the Children, 2017. English. A three-minute video
introducing the IYCF Framework using examples of multi-sector activities.
www.unhcr.org/nutrition-and-food-security

WASH
160.

Baby WASH. Baby Wash Coalition. English. Focused on integration between WASH, ECD,
nutrition and MNCH programming to improve wellbeing for the first 1000 days.
http://babywashcoalition.org/
39

161.

162.

163.

164.

165.

166.

How to integrate WASH and MHCP Activities for Better Humanitarian Projects. ACF,
2014. English. www.actioncontrelafaim.org/fr/espace-jeunes-enseignants/content/acfinternational-manual-1-1-3-how-integrate-wash-and-mhcp-activities-better-humanitarian-pr
Improving Nutrition Outcomes with Better WASH: Practical Solutions for Policy andProgrammes. WHO, USAID and UNICEF, 2015. An overview of the evidence of nutrition gains
that can be achieved with improved WASH, a description of key WASH practices, and practicalknowledge and guidance on how to integrate WASH into nutrition programmes.
www.who.int/water_sanitation_health/publications/washandnutrition/en/
Nutrition-WASH Toolkit: Guide for Practical Joint Actions. UNICEF EAPRO, 2016. English.
www.unicef.org/eapro/WASH_Nutrition_Toolkit_EAPRO_Final_w_ISBN_web_version_7Nov20
16.pdf
WASH ‘Nutrition: A Practical Guidebook on Increasing Nutritional Impact throughIntegration of WASH and Nutrition Programmes. ACF and UNICEF, 2017. English.
www.actioncontrelafaim.org/sites/default/files/publications/fichiers/manuel_wash_nutrition_
online.pdf
WASH in Nut Strategy. Regional WASH Group, West and Central Africa, 2015. English andFrench. Regional inter-sector strategy which can also be adapted and applied more broadly
beyond the region. www.susana.org/fr/ressources/bibliotheque/details/2480
WASH Minimum Standards and Guidelines for Rural Health Facilities and Nutritional
Centres in Resource-Poor Environments. ACF, 2016. English.
www.ennonline.net/washminstandards

Protection
167.

168.

169.

Child Protection in Emergencies Coordinator’s Handbook. CPWG, 2010. English.
http://cpwg.net/?get=005252|2013/08/CPWG-Child-Protection-in-Emergencies-CoordinatorsHandbook.pdf
Guidelines for Integrating Gender-Based Violence Interventions in Humanitarian Action:
Reducing risk, promoting resilience and aiding recovery. Inter-Agency Standing
Committee, 2015. http://gbvguidelines.org/en/home/
Minimum Standards for Child Protection in Humanitarian Action. CPWG, 2013. Arabic,
English, French, Spanish. http://cpwg.net/?get=008202|2014/07/CPMS-ALL-LANGUAGESPACKAGE.zip

Food Security and Livelihoods
170.

Managing the Supply Chain of Specialised Nutritious Foods. WFP, 2013. English. Aimed at
supporting field operations in managing their supply chain of special nutrition products intact.
www.wfp.org/aid-professionals/blog/blog/supply-chain-guide-nutritious-food

Early Childhood Development
171.
172.
173.

174.

40

Early Childhood Development (ECD) Kit. UNICEF. English and French.
www.unicef.org/earlychildhood/index_52596.html
ECD in Emergencies: Integrated Programme Guide. UNICEF, 2014.
www.unicefinemergencies.com/downloads/eresource/docs/ecd/Programme_Guide_ECDiE.pdf
ECD, Nutrition and Health in Emergencies. Technical Note. UNICEF, 2016. English.
www.unicefinemergencies.com/downloads/eresource/docs/ecd/ECD_Nutrition_Health_in%2
0emergencies-PlanInternational-UNICEF-July2016-WEB.pdf
Integrated ECD activities in Nutrition Programmes in Emergencies. UNICEF and WHO,2012. Arabic, English. Note explaining the importance and providing practical suggestions.
www.who.int/mental_health/publications/emergencies_why_what_how/en/

Adolescents
175.

Adolescent Sexual and Reproductive Health Toolkit for Humanitarian Settings. UNFPA
and Save the Children, 2009. Arabic, English, French and Spanish. www.unfpa.org/
publications/adolescent-sexual-and-reproductive-health-toolkit-humanitarian-settings

Mental Health and Psychosocial Support
176.

177.

178.

179.

180.
181.

IASC Guidelines for Mental Health and Psychosocial Support in Emergency Settings. IASC,
2007. Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Japanese, Korean, Nepalese, Portuguese, Spanish, Tajik.
www.who.int/mental_health/emergencies/9781424334445/en/
IASC Guidelines on Mental Health and Psychosocial Support in Emergency Settings:
What should Humanitarian Health Actors know? IASC, 2010. English.
https://interagencystandingcommittee.org/node/2863
Mental Health and Psychosocial Well-Being among Children in Severe Food Shortage
Situation. WHO, 2006. Arabic, English, French, Spanish.
www.who.int/nutrition/publications/emergencies/WHO_MSD_MER_06.1/en/
Psychological First Aid: Guide for Field Workers. WHO, War Trauma Foundation and World
Vision, 2011. Arabic, English, French and multiple other languages. A framework for supporting
people in the immediate aftermath of extremely stressful events.
www.who.int/mental_health/publications/guide_field_workers/en/
Psychosocial Impact of Humanitarian Crises. ACF, 2014. English.
www.actionagainsthunger.org/publication/2014/12/psychosocial-impact-humanitarian-crises
See also: 131 (Baby Friendly Spaces).

Maternal, Newborn and Child Health
182.

183.

184.

185.

186.

Baby Friendly Hospital Initiative: Revised, updated and expanded for integrated care.
WHO and UNICEF, 2009. English and Spanish. Guidance, tools and training for decision-makers
and maternity staff to ensure IYCF is protected, promoted and supported at health facility level.
www.who.int/nutrition/publications/infantfeeding/bfhi_trainingcourse/en/
Integrated Management of Childhood Illnesses (IMCI) Chart Booklet. WHO, 2014. English.
For use by doctors, nurses and other health professionals who see young infants and children under
5. www.who.int/maternal_child_adolescent/documents/IMCI_chartbooklet/en/
Inter-Agency Field Manual on Reproductive Health in Humanitarian Settings. IAWG on
Reproductive Health in Crises, 2010. English, French, Spanish.
www.who.int/reproductivehealth/publications/emergencies/field_manual/en/
Newborn Health in Humanitarian Settings: Field Guide. Interim Version. Guidance and tools
for programme managers, focusing on field implementation of the most critical neonatal (0 – 28days) health services. Save the Children and UNICEF, 2015. English.
www.unicef.org/videoaudio/PDFs/NewBornHealthBook-ProductionV12A.pdf
WHO Recommendations on Antenatal Care for a Positive Pregnancy Experience. WHO,2016. English and Russian. Includes nutritional interventions. www.who.int/reproductivehealth/publications/maternal_perinatal_health/anc-positive-pregnancy-experience/en/

Infectious Disease
187.

188.
189.

Consolidated guidelines on the use of antiretroviral drugs for treating and preventing
HIV infection. Recommendations for a public health approach. Second edition. WHO, 2016.
English. Includes fact sheets with updates. www.who.int/hiv/pub/arv/arv-2016/en/
Guidelines for Addressing HIV in Humanitarian Settings. IASC, 2010. English.
www.unaids.org/sites/default/files/media_asset/jc1767_iasc_doc_en_0.pdf
PMTCT in Humanitarian Settings: Part II – Implementation Guide. Interagency Task TeamHIV in Humanitarian Emergencies, 2015. English. www.emtct-iatt.org/wp-content/uploads/
2015/07/PART-II_PMTCT-in-Humanitarian-Settings-7-July-2015.pdf
41

190.
191.

192.

Infant Feeding in the Context of Ebola. UNICEF, WHO, CDC and ENN, 2014. English andFrench. www.ennonline.net/infantfeedinginthecontextofebola2014
Infant Feeding in Areas of Zika Virus Transmission. WHO, 2016. Arabic, Chinese, English,
French, Portuguese, Russian, and Spanish.
www.who.int/csr/resources/publications/zika/breastfeeding/en/
Cholera Toolkit. UNICEF, 2017. Arabic, English, French. www.unicef.org/cholera_toolkit/

8.7 Artificial Feeding
193.

194.

IYCF-E Toolkit. Version 3. Section D: Programme Planning and Reporting. Arabic, English
and French, 2017. https://sites.google.com/site/stcehn/documents/iycf-e-toolkit-v3/iycf-etoolkit-english
See also: 8.6 (Multi-sector Interventions).

Minimising the Risk
195.
196.

197.

Why Infant Formula Causes Deaths due to Diarrhoea in Emergencies. Gribble, K. 2007.
www.ennonline.net/infantformuladiarrhoea
Safe Preparation, Storage and Handling of Powdered Infant Formula: Guidelines. WHO
and FAO. 2007. Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Spanish, Portuguese and Russian.
www.who.int/foodsafety/publications/micro/pif_guidelines.pdf
How to Prepare Formula for Cup Feeding at Home. FAO and WHO, 2007. English.
www.who.int/foodsafety/publications/micro/PIF_Cup_en.pdf

Roles and Responsibilities
198.

199.
200.
201.

UNHCR IYCF Practices: Standard Operating Procedures for the Handling of Breastmilk
Substitutes (BMS) in Refugee Situations for Children 0-23 months. Version 1.1. UNHCR,
2015 English and French.
UNICEF BMS Standard Operating Procedures. UNICEF, 2017.
Use of milk in WFP operations. Position paper. WFP, June 2017.
http://newgo.wfp.org/documents/use-of-milk-wfp-operations
See also: 8.2 (Organisational Policy).

BMS Specification
202.

203.

Codex Alimentarius Standards for Infant Formula and Formulas for Special Medical
Purposes Intended for Infants. Codex Stan 72 – 1981. FAO and WHO, 2007.
www.fao.org/input/download/standards/288/CXS_072e_2015.pdf
See also: 10 and 11 (The Code).

BMS Supplies and Feeding Equipment
204.

42

IYCF-E Toolkit. Version 3. Section E: Caseload and Supply Needs. Save the Children, 2017.
https://sites.google.com/site/stcehn/documents/iycf-e-toolkit-v3/iycf-e-toolkit-english

9 Definitions
Agency: A generic term that may apply to UN, NGO or government bodies, organisations or departments.
Antiretroviral drug (ARV): The medicine used to treat HIV infection. (WHO, 2016)
Antiretroviral therapy (ART): The use of a combination of three or more ARV drugs for treating HIV
infection. ART involves lifelong treatment. (WHO, 2016)
Artificial feeding: The feeding of infants with a breastmilk substitute. (UNICEF, 2012)
Blanket distributions: (general, untargeted) Provision of a supply to an entire population such as acamp community or a geographic area, or to individuals fulfilling an easily defined criteria, such as age.
Blanket feeding: The feeding of an affected population without targeting specific groups. (UNICEF, 2012)
Blanket supplementary feeding: Blanket supplementary feeding programmes target a foodsupplement to all members of a specified at-risk group, regardless whether they have moderate acutemalnutrition or not.
Bottle feeding rate: The proportion of children 0-23 months of age fed with a bottle. Included arechildren less than 24 months of age who received any food or drink from a bottle with a nipple/teatduring the previous day (including breastmilk). (WHO, 2007)
Breast pump: A device for extracting and collecting milk from the breast during lactation.
Breastfeeding: The provision of breastmilk, either directly from the breast or expressed.
Breastmilk substitute (BMS): Any food (solid or liquid) being marketed, otherwise represented or used
as a partial or total replacement for breastmilk, whether or not suitable for that purpose. In terms of milk
products, recent WHO guidance has clarified that a BMS includes any milks that are specifically marketed
for feeding infants and young children up to the age of three years. See The Code definition for moredetails. Guidance on appropriate and inappropriate BMS for different age groups is included in 5.15.
Cash transfer programming: The use of cash or vouchers to enable households to meet basic needs
for food and non-food items or services or to buy essential assets. This includes government social
protection programmes.
Cluster (sector group): Clusters are groups of humanitarian organisations, both UN and non-UN, ineach of the main sectors of humanitarian action, e.g. nutrition. The cluster approach is a mechanismthat helps to address identified gaps in response and enhance the quality of humanitarian action by
ensuring greater predictability and accountability and strengthening partnerships between NGOs,international organisations, the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, UN agencies andthe government. Interagency standing committee (IASC) clusters are formally activated clusters
created when existing coordination mechanisms are overwhelmed or constrained in their ability torespond to identified needs in line with humanitarian principles. A formally activated cluster has
specific characteristics and accountabilities. It is accountable to the Humanitarian Coordinator (HC)through the Cluster Lead Agency (CLA), as well as to national authorities and to people affected by thecrisis. IASC clusters are a temporary coordination solution and efforts should be made as soon as
appropriate and possible to hand over coordination to the relevant authorities.
Cluster lead agency (CLA): An agency or organisation that has been designated by the Resident
and/or Humanitarian Coordinator (RC/HC) as cluster lead agency for a particular sector at country level,
following consultations with the Humanitarian Country Team. At global level, CLAs are pre-identified
by the IASC: UNICEF is the CLA for the Nutrition Cluster at global level. At country level, the CLA role43can be delegated to another agency where the global level lead agency does not have capacity or
country presence to perform this function.
Code, the: see International Code of Marketing of Breast-Milk Substitutes
Codex Alimentarius: A collection of internationally recognised standards, guidelines and codes ofpractice relating to food safety and quality, adopted by the Codex Alimentarius Commission. (FAO).
Note standard on formulated complementary foods and standard on infant formula.
Complementary feeding: The use of age-appropriate, adequate and safe solid or semi-solid food in
addition to breastmilk or a breastmilk substitute in children aged 6-23 months.
Complementary food: Any food, whether industrially produced or locally prepared, suitable as acomplement to breastmilk or to a BMS, that is used to feed children 6-23 months of age. Note thisterm is also used to describe foods that complement those included in a general ration for
populations receiving food assistance.
Conflict of interest: A situation where there is the risk that a secondary interest of an organisation orindividual unduly influences, or is perceived to unduly influence, the independence or objectivity ofprofessional judgment or actions regarding a primary interest (ensuring the best interests of the childin IFE operations) or undermine public trust in those operations.
Continued breastfeeding: The provision of breastmilk beyond the first 6 months of life.
Counselling: A conversation between a counsellor and caregiver, based on a three-step process that
includes assessment, analysis and action to help the caregiver decide on what is best for herself andher child in their situation. Counselling is different from education and messaging.
Disability: The term “persons with disabilities” applies to all persons with disabilities including but
not limited to those who have long-term physical, mental, intellectual or sensory impairments whichhinder their full and effective participation in society on an equal basis with others.
Donor human milk: Expressed breastmilk voluntarily provided by a lactating woman to feed a childother than her own. Informal donor human milk involves informal milk sharing (e.g. peer-to-peer,
community-based) to breastmilk-feed a child with unprocessed, expressed breastmilk. Formal donor
human milk is sourced from a human milk bank (see definition) to breastmilk-feed a child withscreened and processed, expressed breastmilk.
Early initiation of breastfeeding: Provision of mother’s breastmilk to infants within one hour of birth(includes living and deceased children). Timely initiation of breastfeeding indicator is calculated onliving children only.
Education: In the context of IYCF, education encompasses activities designed to enhance the ability
and motivation of caregivers to voluntarily adopt nutrition-related behaviours conducive to healthand wellbeing.
Emergency: (crisis, disaster) An event or series of events involving widespread human, material,
economic or environmental losses and impacts that exceed the ability of the affected community orsociety to cope using its own resources and therefore requires urgent action to save lives and prevent
additional mortality and morbidity. The term encompasses natural disasters, man-made emergencies
and complex emergencies. Emergencies can be slow- or rapid-onset, chronic or acute.
Exclusive breastfeeding: The infant receives only breastmilk without any other liquids or solids, noteven water, except for oral rehydration solution or drops or syrups of vitamins, minerals or medicines.
(WHO, 2016)
Feeding equipment: Bottles; teats; syringes; feeding cups with spouts, straws or other feeding addons; and breast pumps.
44

Follow-on/follow-up milk/formula: A milk or milk-like product of animal or vegetable origin
formulated industrially in accordance with the Codex Alimentarius Standard for Follow-up Formulaand marketed or otherwise represented as suitable for feeding infants and young children 6-36
months of age. These products are not necessary for child nutrition and fall under the remit of the
Code.
Food security: The situation when all people, at all times, have physical, social and economic access to
sufficient, safe and nutritious food that meets their dietary needs and food preferences for an active
and healthy life. (FAO, 2000)
Fortified foods: Foods which have undergone a process to deliberately increase the content of an
essential micronutrient (e.g. vitamins and minerals) to improve the nutritional quality of the food.
Growing-up milk: Milk product marketed for children between one and three years of age. These
products are not necessary for child nutrition and fall under the remit of the Code.
HIV risk assessment: A process (usually a set of questions) which provides insight into the likelihoodthat a prospective wet nurse has been exposed to the HIV virus. A standard HIV risk assessment orscore does not exist for appraisal of a prospective wet nurse. An assessment will consider HIV status of
current or previous partners, practice of unprotected sex, history of sexually transmitted disease and if
the woman appears to be in good health. However, even if these questions are asked, there ispresently no agreed guidance on how to quantify the risk of HIV infection and what feeding practice tosuggest. The decision on infant feeding practice requires a balance of risk factors that influence HIVfree survival of the child. This will include consideration of the prevalence of HIV, the likely duration of
wet nursing, whether the wet nurse is in good health, HIV test history (e.g. during previous pregnancy)and other factors such as the risks of not breastfeeding and the feasibility and safety of artificial
feeding in this circumstance.
HIV-exposed infant/child: An infant or child born to a mother living with HIV until they are reliably
excluded from being HIV infected. (WHO, 2016)
Home-modified animal milk: a breastmilk substitute for infants up to six months old prepared athome from fresh or processed animal milk, suitably diluted with water and with the addition of sugar,
micronutrients and vegetable oil. (WHO, 2006)
Human milk bank (HMB): A service established to recruit breastmilk donors, collect donated milk, andthen process, screen, store and distribute the milk to meet infants’ specific needs for optimal health.
(PATH, 2013)
Individual-level assessment: A process to evaluate a caregiver-baby pair, establish infant feedingpractice and needs, and decide what type of support may be necessary. There are two levels ofassessment: simple rapid assessment and full assessment.
Infant: A child aged 0-11 completed months (may be referred to as 0-<12 m or 0-<1 year). An older
infant means a child from the age of 6 months up to 11 completed months of age.
Infant formula: A breastmilk substitute formulated industrially in accordance with applicable Codex
Alimentarius standards for infants. Commercial infant formula is infant formula manufactured for sale,branded by a manufacturer. Generic infant formula is unbranded. Powdered Infant Formula (PIF) is an
infant formula product which needs to be reconstituted with safe water before feeding. Ready-to-use
infant formula (RUIF) is a type of infant formula product that is packaged as a ready-to-feed liquid anddoes not need to be reconstituted with water.
International Code of Marketing of Breast-Milk Substitutes (the Code): The Code intends to ensure
BMS will be used as safely as possible when they are necessary based on impartial, accurate
information. The Code does not restrict the availability of BMS, feeding bottles or teats or prohibit the45use of BMS during emergencies. In the context of the Code, BMS means any food being marketed orotherwise represented as a partial or total replacement for breastmilk, whether suitable for that
purpose or not.
The Code applies to the marketing and related practices, quality, availability and information on use,
including but not limited to: breastmilk substitutes (including infant formula, follow-on/follow-up
milk, growing-up milk, other milk products, including bottle-fed complementary foods ) specificallymarketed for feeding children up to three years of age; foods and beverages (baby teas, waters andjuices) when marketed for use as a partial or total replacement of breastmilk during the first six
months of life; feeding bottles and teats.
Note that the promotion of foods for infant and young children over six months is covered by 69th
WHA Provisional Agenda Item 21.1 A69/7 Add.1.
Kangaroo mother care (KMC): Care of LBW and preterm infants carried skin-to-skin with the mother(or substitute). Key features include early, continuous and prolonged skin-to-skin contact and (ideally)
exclusive breastfeeding, or feeding with breastmilk. (WHO, 2015)
Lipid-based nutrient supplement (LNS): A range of lipid-based products that provide vitamins andminerals, energy, protein and essential fatty acids. According to strict specifications, they are classified
as medium or small quantity LNS (MQ- LNS, SQ- LNS), for use in specific target groups/interventions.
MQ-LNS provide macro- and micronutrient supplementation; SQ-LNS primarily provide essential(micro) nutrients.
Low birth weight (LBW): Newborns with a weight of less than 2,500 grams, irrespective of
gestational age.
Micronutrient supplement: A product which provides specific micronutrients that are not available
as part of the regular diet.
Milk products: Dried whole, semi-skimmed or skimmed milk; liquid whole, semi-skimmed or
skimmed milk; soya milks; evaporated or condensed milk; fermented milk or yogurt.
Minimum acceptable diet: A standard indicator for children 6-23 months of age, measuring both theminimum feeding frequency and minimum dietary diversity as appropriate for various age groups. If achild meets the minimum feeding frequency and minimum dietary diversity for their age group andbreastfeeding status, they are considered to receive a minimum acceptable diet.
Mixed feeding: Feeding an infant younger than six months of age other liquids and/or foods
together with breastmilk, i.e. they are not exclusively breastfed. (WHO, 2016)
Newborn (neonate): A child under 28 days of age.
Non-breastfed: A child who does not receive any breastmilk.
Nutrient gap: The difference between nutrient requirements and nutrient intake, considering both
energy and nutrient adequacy
Nutrition and health emergency response: A formal response framework, guided by a cluster or
sector group and in-country technical capacity, aimed at directly meeting the health and nutritionneeds of a disaster-affected population through the delivery of humanitarian health and nutritioninterventions in a coordinated and principled manner and in line with agreed international andnational standards and guidance.
Optimal (recommended) infant and young child feeding: Early initiation (within one hour of birth) of
exclusive breastfeeding, exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life, followed by nutritionallyadequate and safe complementary foods while breastfeeding continues for up to two years of age or
beyond. “Recommended” rather than optimal feeding practices are referred to in the OG-IFE.
46

Perinatal prophylaxis: In the context of HIV-exposed infants, postpartum ARV drugs given to a
newborn in the first three months of life to reduce the risk of perinatal and early postnatal HIV
transmission from mother to child. Postpartum ARV drugs may also be given to infants beyond the first
three months of life to reduce the risk of postnatal HIV transmission from mother to child, for example
through continued breastfeeding.
Preparedness: The capacities and knowledge developed by governments, professional responseorganisations, communities and individuals to anticipate and respond effectively to the impact oflikely, imminent or current hazard events or conditions.
Prevention of mother-to-child transmission of HIV (PMTCT): Programmes and interventions
designed to reduce the risk of mother-to-child (vertical) transmission of HIV.
Qualified health or nutrition worker: In the context of IYCF, a health or nutrition worker or lay IYCF
counsellor who has undergone training on relevant, contextually appropriate health and/or nutrition
matters.
Ready-to-use supplementary food (RUSF): Specialised ready-to-eat, portable, shelf-stable products,
available as pastes, spreads or biscuits, that meet the supplementary nutrient needs of those who are
not severely malnourished. (UNICEF, 2012).
Ready-to-use therapeutic food (RUTF): Specialised ready-to-eat, portable, shelf-stable products,
available as pastes, spreads or biscuits that are used in a prescribed manner to treat children withsevere acute malnutrition. (UNICEF, 2012).
Ready-to-use food (RUF): Specialised ready-to-eat, portable, shelf-stable products that are designed
to be eaten straight from the packet, without the need for cooking, dilution or other preparation. RUF
is an umbrella term that includes RUTF and RUSF (Marie-Pierre Duclercq, 2014; adapted)
Recommended infant and young child feeding: See Optimal (recommended) IYCF.
Relactation: The resumption of breastmilk production (lactation) in a woman who has stopped
lactating, recently or in the past, in order to breastfeed her own or another infant, even without afurther pregnancy. Inducted lactation is the stimulation of breastmilk production in a woman who has
not previously lactated.
Replacement feeding: Feeding a child who is not receiving any breastmilk with a nutritionallyadequate diet until the age at which they can be fully fed on family foods. This term is used in thecontext of HIV.
Skilled support: In the context of breastfeeding, complementary feeding or feeding support,
provision of technical assistance to a caregiver experiencing difficulties with breastfeeding,complementary feeding or artificial feeding by a qualified health or nutrition worker (see definition).
Supplementary feeding device: (supplementary nursing system) A lactation aid which allows for
supplementary feeding (with expressed breastmilk, donor breastmilk or infant formula) at the breast.
Targeted supplementary feeding: Programmes that provide nutritional support to individuals withmoderate acute malnutrition.
Teat: An artificial nipple by which an infant can drink milk from a bottle.
Therapeutic milk: Specialised product for the management of severe malnutrition in inpatientsettings, e.g. F75 and F100. Therapeutic milk may be pre-formulated or prepared from dried skimmed
milk (DSM), oil and sugar, with the addition of a vitamins and minerals complex. Note that from third
quarter of 2017, packaging will transition from sachets to 400g tins (UNICEF, WHO, 2017).
Toddler milk: See Growing-up milk
47

Untargeted distribution: See Blanket distribution
Wet nursing: Breastfeeding of a child by someone other than the child’s biological mother.
Young child: A child from the age of 12 months up to the age of 23 completed months (may also bereferred to as 12-<24m or 1-<2 years).

Definition sources
The Code. The International Code of Marketing of Breastmilk Substitutes. WHO, 1981 and subsequent
relevant WHA Resolutions. http://ibfan.org/the-full-code
CMAMI Tool. ENN and LSHTM, 2015. www.ennonline.net/c-mami
CRPD. Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. www.un.org/development/desa/
disabilities/convention-on-the-rights-of-persons-with-disabilities.html
FAO, 2000. Food Insecurity and Vulnerability Information and Mapping Systems. www.fao.org/3/ax8346e.pdf
FAO, 2012. Nutrition at WFP: Programming for Nutrition Specific Interventions. Nutrition Terminology.
www.fao.org/fileadmin/templates/cfs/Docs1415/Events/CFS_NERWS_2015/CFS_NERW_WFP_Programming_Nutrition_Specific.pdf
IASC, 2007. Inter-Agency Contingency Planning Guidelines for Humanitarian Assistance.
https://interagencystandingcommittee.org/preparedness/documents-public/inter-agencycontingency-planning-guidelines-humanitarian-assistanceMarie-Pierre Duclercq, 2014. Production of Ready-to-Use Food (RUF): An overview of the steps andchallenges involved in the “local” production of RUF.
www.ennonline.net/productionofreadytousefoodruf
OCHA. Cluster Coordination. www.unocha.org/legacy/what-we-do/coordination-tools/clustercoordination
OCHA, 2003. Glossary of Humanitarian Terms. http://un-interpreters.net/glossaries/ocha%
20glossary.pdf
PATH, 2013. Strengthening Human Milk Banking. www.path.org/publications/files/MCHN_
strengthen_hmb_frame_Jan2016.pdf
UNICEF, 2012. Nutrition Glossary. www.unicef.org/lac/Nutrition_Glossary_(3).pdf
UNICEF, WHO, 2017. Introducing Updated Packaging and Reconstitution Guidance for Therapeutic
Milk. Common Messaging Document 1: 27 July 2017. www.ennonline.net/tm
WHO, 2006. HIV and Infant Feeding Technical Consultation – Discussion Paper.
http://files.ennonline.net/attachments/516/animal-milk-modification-who-discussion-paper-oct2006.pdf
WHO, 2007. Indicators for assessing IYCF practices. Part 1: Definition.
www.who.int/maternal_child_adole scent/documents/9789241596664/en/
WHO, 2015. Recommendations on interventions to improve preterm birth outcomes.
http://apps.who.int/iris/bitstream/10665/183037/1/9789241508988_eng.pdf
WHO, 2016. Updates on HIV and Infant Feeding: Guideline. Definitions and Key Terms.
www.who.int/maternal_child_adolescent/documents/hiv-infant-feeding-2016/en/48

Annex 1: Guide to content by sector/speciality and preparedness
Sector/Speciality

Sections

All sectors (general)

3.6, 4.2, 4.3, 5.6

Adolescent services

5.4, 5.7, 5.30, 5.32

Agriculture

5.30-5.32

Cash (including social protection)

4.6.1, 5.23, 5.30, 5.32, 6.19, 6.20, 6.24

Child protection

5.4, 5.16, 5.30-5.32

Disability

2.3, 4.6.2, 5.4, 5.22, 5.30, 5.32

Early Childhood Development

5.30-5.32

Food Security and Livelihoods

3.4, 4.6.1, 5.22, 5.23, 5.30, 5.32, 5.7, 5.40

Health:Reproductive, maternal, newborn andchild health3.4, 3.6, 4.5, 4.6.1, 5.22, 5.23, 5.25, 5.30, 5.31, 5.32, 5.7,
5.40

Curative services

5.4, 5.16, 5.30, 5.32

Mental health and psychosocial
support services

2.3, 5.16, 5.30-5.32

HIV

4.6.1, 5.6.1, 5.7, 5.16, 5.30-5.32, 5.33-5.39

Infectious disease management

1.1, 4.6.1, 5.4, 5.10, 5.30, 5.33, 5.40

Logistics

2.1, 5.22, 5.24, 5.28, 5.30, 6.1-6.6, 6.11-6.18, 6.24-6.25

Shelter

5.30, 5.32

WASH

5.10, 5.22, 5.30-5.32, 6.22

Preparedness

1.1-1.7, 2.2, 2.4, 3.2, 3.5, 4.1, 4.4-4.5, 4.6.1, 5.1, 5.13,
5.33, 6.4, 6.7

49

ACRONYMS
ART
ARV
BMS
CFSVA
CMR
DHS
ECD
ENN
FAO
FSL
FSNMS
HIV
HRP
GIFA
IBFAN
ICDC
IDP
IFE
IMR
IYCF
JANFSA
KAP
LBW
MHPSS
MICS
MNCH
MNP
NGO
OG-IFE

Antiretroviral treatment
Antiretroviral (drug)
Breastmilk substituteComprehensive Crop and Food Security and Vulnerability Analysis
Crude mortality rate
Demographic Health Survey
Early childhood development
Emergency Nutrition Network
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations
Food security and livelihoods
Food Security and Nutrition Monitoring System
Human immunodeficiency virus
Humanitarian Response Plan
Geneva Infant Feeding Association
International Baby Food Action Network
International Code Documentation Centre
Internally displaced persons
Infant and young child feeding in emergencies (also referred to as IYCF-E)
Infant mortality rate
Infant and young child feeding
Joint Approach to Nutrition and Food Security Assessment
Knowledge, attitudes, practices
Low birth weight
Mental health and psychosocial support
Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey
Maternal, newborn and child health
Micronutrient powder
Non-governmental organisation
Operational Guidance for emergency relief staff and programme managers on Infant andYoung Child Feeding in Emergencies
PIF
Powdered infant formula
PLW
Pregnant and lactating women
PMTCT Prevention of mother-to-child transmission
RUIF
Ready-to-use infant formula
RUSF
Ready-to-use supplementary food
RUTF
Ready-to-use therapeutic food
UHT
Ultra-high temperature
UN
United Nations
UNHCR United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees
UNICEF United Nations International Children’s Fund
U5MR
Under-five mortality rate
WASH Water, sanitation and hygiene
WBTi
World Breastfeeding Trends Initiative
WFP
World Food Programme
WHA
World Health Assembly
WHO
World Health Organization50Notes51

The OG-IFE was produced by the
Emergency Nutrition Network (ENN),
32 Leopold Street, Oxford, OX4 1TW, UK
Tel: +44 (0) 1865 324996
Fax: +44 (0)1865 597669
email: office@ennonline.net
www.ennonline.net

52