I'm really concerned about the new form of marketing ABM here in Israel.
My neighbor had a baby last month and has been swamped with unsolicited
mail from every formula and baby food company.  This leads me to suspect
that the hospitals are selling lists from the maternity depts.  If it
isn't illegal, it's certainly unethical and an invasion of privacy.

All of these cute little packages are quite eye-catching.  One of the
companies has come up with a "baby club."  A letter (personalized to the
mother) invites her to join the club.  She will recieve FREE full size
cans of powdered milk, discounts etc. etc.  In the envelope there are
also samples of baby teas, coupons for cereals - even a magnet for the
fridge with an 800 number.  Adding to my nausea are all kind of official
looking seals:  "TOTAL BABY NUTRITION SYSTEM,"  "INSTITUTE OF QUALITY &
CONTROL,"  "CERTIFIED QUALITY SYSTEM."

I called the 800# saying I was a mom-to-be.  I said that I was confused
about bf and formula.  NO problem!  A very nice operator patiently
answered all my questions.  Some delights from the conversation:
Yes, they encourage all mothers to try and nurse FIRST.
Only my doctor can tell me if I have the ability to bf.
There is no difference nutritionally between ABM and BM.
The only difference between BM and ABM is that BM is more "natural."
(No mention of any health or immunological benefits.)
SOME mothers manage to have enough milk, but others start to supplement
from the beginning.

And the icing on the cake... She encourages me to try nursing first, but
she'll be glad to send me FREE samples and information ... JUST IN CASE.
WOW!  Isn't that NICE OF THEM???

Now, how in the world can I compete with them?  With a budget of less
than zero?  I'm wondering if any of you in other countries have seen
similar tactics.

Susan Nachman-Srebrnik, frustrated LC
Ranana, Israel