The Ministry of Health stated that it prefers mothers who can produce breast milk to breast feed their babies rather than relying on infant milk formula.

Ministry spokesperson Peni Namotu said their policy at the hospitals is clear that mothers should be encouraged to breast feed.

When questioned by Fijivillage, Namotu said he understands that some mothers have personal issues and cannot produce enough breast milk.

But he said many working mothers who can produce milk fully rely on infant formula.

Namotu said the ministry believes there are ways to keep breastfeeding even if a mother returns to work from maternity leave.