by Amy Spangler
June 20, 2007

It appears that the battle lines have been drawn.

In an effort to combat the progress being made by Massachusetts child health advocates to stop the distribution of infant formula samples at health care facilities, a new website has been launched—Moms Feeding Freedom.

The site is made possible by a grant from the International Formula Industry. Kate Kahn, a Boston-based TV producer and consultant, manages and controls the editorial content.

According to Kahn, “…new moms are choosing to breastfeed in greater numbers than ever before. But some moms can’t or choose not to make this choice. And there is no reason, given the highly regulated and nutritious infant formula on the market today, for those moms to be made to feel guilty about their choice.”

The launch of Moms Feeding Freedom comes on the heels of a grassroots effort to ban the distribution of hospital discharge bags to new mothers. The Ban the Bags campaign was launched in Massachusetts after efforts to modify state perinatal regulations were stymied.

Both sides make compelling arguments, but lost in the exchange is the more important issue—ethical behavior. Whether you are a critic or an advocate, a health care professional or a consumer, consider the following:

• Social science data show that gift giving, both large and small, can influence the behavior of the recipient in ways the recipient does not always realize.

• The role/responsibility of health care facilities and health care professionals is to provide quality health care.

• Distribution of commercial products (samples) by nonprofit organizations or institutions is an implied endorsement of that company and its products.

• Commercial products (samples) distributed by health care professionals and consumers are not free. The cost of every sample is reflected in the price of the product when purchased by consumers.

Informed decision-making requires accurate information and skilled support—no samples needed.