Business Notes PRODUCTS

When Carnation started selling its new "hypoallergenic" infant formula called Good Start H.A. last November, the Nestle subsidiary hailed the product as a "medical breakthrough." Because the formula is made from whey, Carnation believed it would prove ideal for colicky babies who cannot tolerate traditional milk-based solutions. Since then, six cases have been reported to the Food and Drug Administration of babies who developed allergic reactions to Good Start. One of these infants vomited constantly for more than an hour.

The reports prompted an investigation by the FDA. Last week Carnation , announced that it will no longer include the "hypoallergenic" label on its product. Furthermore, it will add a warning that milk-allergic babies, who constitute about 2% of the infant population, should take the formula only under a doctor's supervision.