custom field name displays in drop down menu, not ---select---

[websmith]

VM 3.0.12 Joomla 3.4.8

Im noticing that if I add a custom field to a product, when I view in front end of site the custom field name displays as first drop down menu option and not "---Select---".

I have to go into the product details page and click on "please select" for the top option under Multi Variant new ramification every time for ---Select--- to display in front end.

Say I have to change the cost price for one of the variants. I go in change the price and save. The ---Select--- reverts back to the multi variant name as the first option for drop down in front end. I have to choose please select every time and then save for it to take effect. Is there a global setting for first option to default to "please select"?