This is a topic that I've been meaning to bring up for a while.  I received,
via a colleague, a mailing from the Institute of Pediatric Nutrition.  It
contained six 2-page "fact" sheets designed for parent education.  The
topics included "How to care for a baby or child with diarrhea", "How to
meet toddlers' nutritional needs", "Common questions asked by new
parents", "Important points about infant nutrition", "First year feeding",
"Premature and low-birth-weight infants have special nutritional needs".

The parent education sheets appear to be targeted toward middle class,
educated parents.    Each sheet displays "The Institute" logo with
"Sponsored by Similac".  They did not meet our state health division's
criteria for breastfeeding education materials for numerous reasons.

The  information enclosed with the mailing states, "The Institute of
Pediatric Nutrition, established in 1994, clarifies the important pediatric
nutritional issues for parents and healthcare providers.  Some of the
world's leading pediatric specialists serve as members of The Institute
and represent a range of expertise in medicine, dietetics, public health
and nursing.  Institute members include: <<a list of members including
Marianne Neifert>>.

"The Institue:  *develops information for parents to help them make
informed nutritional choices to maximize the health and development of
their children. *updates healthcare providers on pediatric nutrition issues.
*Issues an annual advisory focusing on an  important nutritional concern.
*offers free information via a toll-free number 1-800-7215-BABY or
1-800-721-5222."

"In 1996, The Institute will expand globally with affiliates in Spain and
Taiwan.  The Institute of Pediatric Nutrition is dedicated to educating
parents about optimal nutrition for infants and young children.  Members'
involvement in The Institute does not imply endorsement of any specific
products"

"The Institute of Pediatric Nutrition is sponsored by Similac Infant Formula,
which is manufactured by Ross Products Division of Abbott
Laboratories".

If anyone would like more information, feel free to e-mail me privately.

Debi VanderMey Barr, MS, RD/LD
Portland, Oregon        mailto:[log in to unmask]