Misuse of Bear Brand Coffee Creamer as Infant Food in Laos
Author Information
Author(s): Barennes Hubert, Andriatahina Todisoa, Latthaphasavang Vattanaphone, Anderson Margot, Srour Leila M
Primary Institution: Institut de la Francophonie pour la Médecine Tropicale
Hypothesis
What are the perceptions and uses of Bear Brand coffee creamer as a substitute for breast milk among consumers and paediatricians in Laos?
Conclusion
The Bear Brand coffee creamer is used as a breast milk substitute in Laos, and its misleading logo poses health risks to infants.
Supporting Evidence
- 96% of surveyed adults believed the can contains milk.
- 46% thought the Bear Brand logo indicates the product is suitable for infants.
- 80% had not read the warning on the can.
- Over 18% reported giving the product to their infant at a mean age of 4.7 months.
Takeaway
Many parents in Laos mistakenly think Bear Brand coffee creamer is good for babies because of its cute logo, even though it's not meant for them.
Methodology
Interviews with paediatricians and a national survey of consumers regarding their perceptions and use of Bear Brand coffee creamer.
Potential Biases
The sample may have been biased towards more literate individuals, potentially underestimating misconceptions.
Limitations
The study was limited to four provinces in Laos and may not represent the entire country.
Participant Demographics
{"total_participants":1124,"gender_distribution":{"women":612,"men":512},"age_mean":42.0,"illiteracy_rate":10.0,"education":{"secondary_or_above":50.0},"ethnic_groups":{"Lao_Loum":1010,"Lao_Theung":70,"Lao_Soum":18},"occupation":{"farmer":388,"shopkeeper_or_craftsman":260,"no_job_housewife_retired":219,"civil_servant":129,"worker":33,"other":69}}
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Confidence Interval
4.1 to 5.3
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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