8 Oct 2019
We regret that concerns have been raised about Nestlé India’s support for an important scientific observational study. No infant formula products were provided to the hospitals where the study was taking place, nor were our products promoted in those institutions. Our intention was to contribute to better understanding of the challenges of feeding premature babies. The study in question was approved by the Ethics Committees at those hospitals.
Our view is that the local regulations [The Infant Milk Substitutes, Feeding Bottle and Infant Foods (Regulation of Production, Supply and Distribution) Act 1992] does not prevent us from supporting scientific research studies. Section 9 of the Act prohibits financial inducement to health workers or any contribution or pecuniary benefit to a health worker or association of health workers, only if these are for the purpose of promoting the use of infant milk substitutes, feeding bottles and infant foods.
The researchers associated with the study will provide whatever information is requested to help with the enquiries.