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]