Franklin Park, IL - Advocates are calling for legislation that would force manufacturers to place graphic warning labels on all infant formula packages in order to increase awareness of the dangers of not choosing to breastfeed.
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| A formula fed child (left), shown here holding a breastfed infant (right, with sunglasses) while questioning his mother's love |
"Graphic warning labels are a cost-effective way to increase public awareness about the dangers of formula at the time of use," La Leche League International Executive Director Zion Tankard explained. "When combined with other formula cessation assistance strategies, they can help governments reduce healthcare costs associated with not breastfeeding."
Non-breastfeeding women usually have their formula within easy reach, thus providing a unique opportunity to reinforce breastfeeding awareness every time they consider feeding their child. According to certified breastfeeding proselytist Mort Fishman, CBP, MD, package imagery can influence a mother's ratings of formula safety and nutritional value, as well as their beliefs regarding the amazing benefits of breastfeeding a child for at least the first year of their life. "The health and societal costs that follow a long-term formula addiction provide governments with a vested interest to restrict or counter marketing that promotes the irrational refusal to listen to reason and just breastfeed your baby already. Sheesh!"
Advocates have proposed that all formula packages feature a photo of a mother slowly lowering her infant into a drum of florescent green liquid. An accompanying caption will read, "You wouldn't dip your baby into this toxic waste, so why make them drink it?"
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