The American Academy of Pediatrics, a well-respected group of physicians, has allowed their logo to be placed on the tag of Mead Johnson's Enfamil-infant formula discharge bag. Because The AAP clearly promotes breastfeeding due to the undeniable health benefits; this collaboration sends an opposing message. The AAP, maternity hospitals, obstetricians, pediatricians, and all allied health services should avoid the practice of dispersing formula or discharge bags. These are not free samples meant to assist new mothers. Distributing formula companies' discharge bags or printed materials is only providing free advertisement for the formula companies. Unfortunately this practice undermines new mothers breastfeeding endeavors. www.BabyFirstLactation.com
IBLCE Calls Upon the American Academy of Pediatrics to Terminate Arrangement with Formula Manufacturer
As a certification body, the International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners® (IBLCE®) typically only issues statements directly related to IBCLC® certification matters.
However, due to IBLCE’s strong support of the International Code of Marketing of Breast-milk Substitutes, IBLCE is compelled to take the somewhat unusual step of calling upon the American Academy of Pediatrics to terminate its recent arrangement with a formula manufacturer which included the printing of the AAP logo on the formula company discharge bags.
This arrangement does not accord with some of AAP’s own policy statements as well as the evidence base regarding the importance, and primacy of, breastfeeding.
Therefore, IBLCE calls upon the AAP to terminate this arrangement and to demonstrate its commitment to optimal health and nutrition by unequivocal support and promotion of breastfeeding.
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