challenging illegal formula packaging - sorry if this has already been posted but this is from the CEO of the NCT

[harpsichordcuddler]

"The NCT has been given a clear view from LACORS (the Local Authorities Coordinators of Regulatory Services that some infant formula packaging currently on store shelves is illegal under current regulations.

In order for it to be removed from sale there needs to be a prosecution or threatened prosecution. Local Trading Standards Officers are the people who would bring a prosecution, but to do this they need to receive large numbers of complaints from across the UK.

Would you help? This is your chance to make a real difference.

Next time you are in a supermarket or chemist, check out the infant formula packs (this formula is labelled as ?suitable from birth?) and read the wording.

The wording we are informed is illegal is

? Formulated to be nutritionally close to breastmilk
? With omega 3 LCP,s
? Closer Than Ever to Breastmilk
? Inspired by breastmilk

You may find other wording which is similar.

Send photos or a description to your trading standards office (you can locate your nearest using this link)

Scotland www.scotss.org.uk/scotss2.htm

England www.tradingstandards.gov.uk/consumers/clegis.cfm

Wales www.wrexham.gov.uk/english/env_services/tradingstandards/

N Ireland www.detini.gov.uk/cgi-bin/get_builder_page?page=61&site=9&parent=110

Channel islands www.gov.je/EconomicDevelopment/TradingStandards/

With a note to say

?These packs were on display in my local xxxxxxx on date xxxxx and I believe them to be illegal under current legislation because of the wording on the packs.
Please note the words

[INSERT WORDING ON PACK]

My information is that this wording is likely to be illegal. Please would you follow this up for me and let me know the outcome. ?

They will do the rest. You don?t need to explain why you think it is illegal or comment any further ? just report it. The body from whom local TSOs take their lead has already advised us that this packaging is illegal. Your letter will push them to act."

Off to Boots tomorrow. And other shops of a similar ilk.....

it's fun isn't it

hmmm - I understand fully that it's illegal - but isn't withdrawing the illegal packagin from the shelves going to cause a false 'shortage' of the stuff? Especially in shops that only stock small(ish) amounts? I'd (personally) rather not traipse all the way round town trying to buy DS3's milk when the local corner shop sells it for only 10p more than the rest of them do......

I'm sure I saw Aptamil saying "inspired by breastmilk" just the other week in a Yorkshire Tesco.

But I have to say, I fail to see the harm myself (other than it being illegal of course). I just thought it sounded like the Pampers advert.

I mean it is inspired by breastmilk as it's for feeding babies. Do I take it they're not allowed to mention breastmilk at all? (Not looking for an argument as I know all the concerns very well, just making a point).

well it isn't anything to do with breastmilk, it's udder milk from a cow with stuff added and taken away. so probably breastmilk shouldn't be mentioned.

lol at 'udder milk'

Actually I think the formula manufacturers are flogging a dead horse (pardon the expression which I hate). They should just give up the breastmilk message as it's so watered down now surely no one can believe their feeble claims anymore?

You'd be surprised Twinkle.
Million of vulnerable women fall for their lies hook line and sinker.

I don't know though TwinkleMegan. Almost every time there is a thread about formula someone mentions that Aptamil is closest to breastmilk so their "message" is obviously getting through.

twinkle, the reason why I posted this just now is that someone on another thread said just that
obviously it is a matter of personal choice if you want to write to TS or not.
I am not here to change anyone's mind or persuade anyone

oh goody. will now be able to use the macro lens on my new Canon 400 digital with a gazillion pixels.

I know my camera will jam and i will look like a loon.

and me 6 wk break has only just started.

ahh well at least I'll know who to blame if DS3 suddenly goes hungry as I can't get hold of his milk

Better stock up FA...

I would if they were allowed to put them on special offer......but can't afford to bulk buy.

AQh yes,but breastfeeding is free.

Don't go there Moondog .

I'm really glad I've decided the current tin of formula is the last ever one. It's cows milk or nothing from now on (well cheese and yoghurt of course). Hoorah!!

OK,but you know,it is. I don't believe in paying for owt you can get for nowt.

yes true - but the breast pump (£25), bottles (about £5 if I remember correctly for 2), teats (something crazy like £3-4 for 2), steriliser (£15 - although DH ended getting the bigger on which was £25), storage bags (£7 for 40) cost me plenty - and even if I was still exclusively bf'ing DS3 I would need those things in order to bring in £120 of the money I get each month..........

Neither do I if I can help it, which I can't (as you know perfectly well Moondog).

Well I hope there isn't a formula shortage as a result of this.....

Its not rocket science to realise that formula milk is in no way a substitute to breast milk....

Give it up!

Exactly what is acceptable do you people think? "Now even closer to udder milk" perhaps?

I don't think the labelling of the packaging will be making much difference now, not now the health claims have been banned. Personally I don't think there's too much wrong with a little reassurance, even if it's not strictly true. I agree with CJC that it would be a very bad thing indeed if this caused a formula shortage.

Ahem, said a bad mouse