Access to Subsidised Infant Formula for Twins Simplified in Egypt

Procedures for dispensing subsidised infant formula to twin children have been eased under updated directives from the Ministry of Health and Population, following ministerial decision No. 485 of 2024.

The changes are intended to ensure adequate nutrition for infants in cases where breastfeeding is not possible or insufficient, while maintaining breastfeeding as the preferred option whenever feasible.

Under the revised framework, mothers of twins or higher-order multiples can access subsidised formula more easily when natural milk supply does not meet nutritional needs. The ministry stated that the adjustments are designed to improve efficiency within the public distribution system and to better respond to medically verified cases.

Eligibility for subsidised formula continues to be governed by medical criteria. Qualifying cases include maternal death after childbirth, mothers undergoing chemotherapy or radiotherapy, and diagnoses such as renal failure or liver failure.

The framework also covers epilepsy and certain mental health conditions where infant safety may be affected. Each case is assessed clinically, based on medical documentation and examination, to determine eligibility.

To prevent misuse and ensure accurate targeting, the ministry has expanded digital oversight across the programme. A total of 300 eligibility committees have now been digitised across 27 governorates, alongside 1,235 authorised outlets nationwide for dispensing subsidised infant formula.

Access requires submission of the relevant documents and medical tests, as well as a clinical examination at primary healthcare units to record health status and confirm eligibility within the automated system.