Parma, December 1, 2011 - Regarding the Plasmon print campaign published today, Barilla takes note that this campaign communicates erroneous information and is therefore unfair and against ethical principles of competition. Barilla is committed to the health protection of all people who consume its products. In addition to complying with applicable legislations, Barilla adopts very restricted, voluntary measures to further analyze and monitor very carefully all steps of its food production cycle, from the purchased raw materials to the final products. Plasmon’s ad attempts to cut directly against this deep commitment by offering misleading advertisements.
Every food product must follow food safety laws and regulations in order to guarantee consumer health and wellness. Products designed for specific usage, such as baby food products (0-3 years of age), are regulated by different, respective laws and regulations that are specific to that product category.
In this regard, Plasmon compared two different products designed for two different consumers, which are specifically regulated by different laws and regulations. This erroneous comparison is a form of sensationalism and fosters an unnecessary sense of panic.
In fact, there are no baby food products within the Barilla brand portfolio. For this reason, it is unfair and misleading to compare baby food products with others that are designed for the consumption by the whole family.
The trust that parents have given us every day for more than 130 years shows that their choices are driven by awareness and knowledge of the high quality of Barilla products. A misleading and unethical comparative advertisement does not help them decide which products to choose for their family.
Barilla guarantees the highest quality and safety of its products and always holds the wellbeing and health of people as a priority. Barilla is disappointed by the claims made in this inaccurate advertisement and will consider all available remedies, including seeking relief from relevant government authorities.
