Just a quick heads-up on a marketing blitz by Nestle for its new formula that is supplemented with probiotics (bacteria). Nestle has mailed health care providers in the US an advertising?brochure on its new formula that contains probiotics (Bifidobacterium lactis). It contains instructions on reconstituting the powdered formula that instructs caregivers to make sure that the water is not above 100F so as not to inactivate the added bacteria. This is completely counter to the WHO guidelines that say water should be boiled, cooled?to 70C-90C (158F-194F) and added to the powder at that temperature to kill pathogens that may be in the powder?such as Enterobacter sakazakii, and then rapidly cooled to body temperature to feed the baby. It also neglects to say that powdered formula should not be fed to any baby under 4 weeks of age. In addition, Nestle has contacted radio stations throughout the US, offering an interview with a pediatrician entitled, "Do You Feel Fearful of Formula Feeding?" "Don't be scared, say experts!" The interview promises new information on formula, especially the "benefits" of anyone being able to feed the baby, not having to pump or schedule work and activities around the baby's feeding schedule, and not having to feed the baby so frequently. The interview then will look at the new "miracle bacteria" that has been added to Nestle's formula. The interview has been scheduled for August 1, the first day of World Breastfeeding Week in the US.

If any radio stations pick up on this interview, the public will be receiving a skewed and possible hazardous look at infant formula. Breastfeeding advocates may wish to be on the lookout for this interview that is scheduled to air between 6:00am and 10:00am on August 1. If any of your local radio stations air this,?you may wish?to call in and provide evidence-based information, especially on the improper reconstitution instructions and the implied inconveniences of breastfeeding.

References
Bowen AB, Braden CR. Invasive Enterobacter sakazakii disease in infants. Emerg Infect Dis 2006; 12(8):1185-1189

WHO/FAO. Safe preparation, storage and handling of powdered infant formula: guidelines. 
http://www.who.int/foodsafety/publications/micro/pif2007/en/

See also NABA's new publication "Still Selling Out Mothers and Babies"

Marsha Walker, RN, IBCLC
Weston, MA
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