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Subject:
From:
Magda Sachs <[log in to unmask]>
Reply To:
Lactation Information and Discussion <[log in to unmask]>
Date:
Wed, 10 Jan 2001 16:38:47 -0000
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>there was a short one page
thing on if you have to use formula and endless pages of valuable BF info.
I thinking Bill is "using" the formula guys in a way they did not envision<

Here is a principle from our organisation:  it is important not only to *be
independent* -- so that information is not coloured by an association,
financial or otherwise, with companies -- but also to *be seen to be
independent*.

Maybe what you are identifying above, Pat, is that Sears's info is still
unbiassed and strong (independent) on breastfeeding, what others are
identifying is that he has lost the *credibility*, the *appearance* the
*assurance* of independence.

He is talking up one sort of commercial product on the basis that they are
all the same.  While they may all have to meet certain standards, are they
really all the exact same?  How does he know?   My impression is that they
are different 'formulations' within specified parameters.  We don't know if
the differences between the different products have  consequences for babies
who ingest them.  Can Sears afford to stake his good name on his assertion?
Would he like to take the consequences of talking up one sort of product if,
say, there were a well-publicised recall episode?  Or if in future years we
discover that some particular processing style has health consequences?

I would also suggest that the 'formula guys' are very likely to be aware of
the halo that will surround them to be in association with 'top notch'
breastfeeding info.  Here in the UK there is a 'truism' which does the
rounds in bf circles (I can't reference it) which says that  women who start
out breastfeeding are more susceptable to adverts and to information about
'healthy feeding' and will ultimately spend more money on special baby milk
products (follow-on etc if not first milks) than women who just give
bovine-based substitutes from the beginning, who switch to doorstep milk as
soon as they can.  Basking in the reflected glow of good breastfeeding info
= bucks.

> Bill may have decided to  go for the greater good by putting up with the
little
banners. <

Ummm.  He is not 'putting up' with these little banners, he is getting money
from the companies in return for displaying them (see his letter).

Magda Sachs
Breastfeeding Supporter, BfN, UK

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