NAD Similac appeal
This article was originally published in The Tan Sheet
Executive Summary
Ross Products Division of Abbott Labs should discontinue ad claims for Similac infant formula that state that nucleotide-supplemented Similac Advance "helps develop a baby's immune system" when compared to non-nucleotide-supplemented formulas. The claims should be withdrawn "unless Ross has competent and reliable evidence establishing that nucleotide supplementation provides better immunity protection (i.e., better resistance to infection and disease)." The National Advertising Division originally upheld several Similac Advance claims challenged by Enfamil LIPIL marketer Mead Johnson (1"The Tan Sheet" Jan. 31, 2005, p. 15). Mead Johnson appealed the decision and the review board determined that "the message conveyed by the advertising is confusing at best." Ross Products is "extremely disappointed" with the review board's decision, but says it will modify the claims to ensure they are not misinterpreted...