On May 19th, the Food Safety Authority of Vietnam (under the Ministry of Health) announced that it had sent an official dispatch to the Institute of Nutrition and the Dong Nai Health Department, requesting an investigation and verification of Nestlé Milo products’ advertising claims regarding clinical trial reports from the National Institute of Nutrition, as recently reported by the media.
Specifically, the ready-to-drink Nestlé Milo packaging features the slogan: “Now scientifically proven for endurance. Clinically tested by the Institute of Nutrition.” This has sparked controversy due to its association with scientific research conducted by a specialized unit under the Ministry of Health.
The Food Safety Authority has instructed the Dong Nai Health Department to inspect, verify, and handle the advertising of this product in accordance with current regulations. Simultaneously, the Authority has requested the National Institute of Nutrition to urgently review and scrutinize the communication and advertising content of these products to ensure compliance.
Image: Milo product packaging featuring the name of the Institute of Nutrition.
Previously, in their response to the media, the Institute of Nutrition confirmed that they had collaborated with Nestlé Vietnam on a scientific research project regarding the effectiveness of physical education combined with the consumption of Milo on elementary school students. The study was conducted from June 2022 to March 2023, involving 576 students in Ninh Binh province, utilizing a community-based randomized controlled trial design.
The results indicated no significant improvement in the students’ nutritional status or cognitive abilities after three months. However, those who participated in physical activities according to the curriculum and consumed Milo showed enhanced physical qualities, including speed, strength, endurance, flexibility, and agility.
The Institute of Nutrition stated that the research topic had been approved by the Institute’s Scientific Council. They have also requested that Nestlé Vietnam thoroughly review the product’s advertising content. If any information related to the Institute is found to be in violation of regulations, it must be immediately removed.
“Communicating and advertising food products must comply with legal regulations and ensure accuracy when using the name and research results of specialized agencies,” emphasized the representative of the Institute of Nutrition.
“Nestlé Vietnam Responds to Using Research Results from the Institute of Nutrition on MILO Products”
“Nestlé MILO has come under scrutiny for its use of research findings from the Institute of Nutrition in their product marketing. In response, the company has defended its practices, asserting the legality and transparency of the information disclosed. They emphasize that their collaboration with the Institute adheres to stringent scientific standards, ensuring responsible and ethical communication with their consumers.”
