Ad causes dismay.

I was shocked and dismayed to find an advertisement for infant formula in last month's journal. This shows a gross lack of understanding about infant and maternal health. If any more ads contravening the International Code of Marketing of Artificial Baby Milk are accepted, I do not wish to be a member of NZNO.

Alison Wallace, RN, IBCLC, West Coast Primary Health Organisation

Co-editors reply: The advertisement promoting Nan Nestle infant formula in last month's issue should not hove been accepted, as it contravenes NZNO's policy to promote, protect and support breastfeeding. NZNO supports the protection of breastfeeding through adherence to the WHO International Code of Marketing of Breast Milk Substitutes (1981), the New Zealand Guidelines for Health Workers (1997) and the Healthy Eating--Healthy Action Implementation Plan 2004-2010 (2004). NZNO also supports implementation of the Baby Friendly Hospital Initiative in maternity facilities.

The international codes provisions are voluntary and self-regulatory. They include that there be no advertising of breast milk substitutes to the public, that information to health workers should be scientific and factual, and that all information on artificial infant feeding, including the labels, should explain the benefits of breastfeeding, and the costs and hazards associated with artificial feeding.

Kai Tiaki Nursing New Zealand's advertising is managed by an external agent who believed the advertisement did not conflict with NZNO policy. We apologise for this mistake and assure readers the gap in communication has now been addressed.