There is a baby formula shortage
There is indeed a national shortage of baby formula. The COVID-19 pandemic created supply chain and staffing issues, and a recent recall of baby formula due to contaminated products from a key factory added to the problem.
Feeding babies is vital and with the current shortage, it can be a very stressful situation for parents who can’t find the formula.
If you’re struggling to find baby formula, here are some tips that may help:
• Check smaller stores and dollar stores which may not be out of supply when the bigger stores are.
• Purchase from well-recognized distributors and pharmacies rather than individually sold or auction sites.
• For most babies, it is okay to switch to any available formula, including store brands, unless your baby is on a specific extensively hydrolyzed or amino acid-based formula. Ask your pediatrician about recommended specialty formula alternatives available for your baby.
• Check social media groups. There are groups dedicated to infant feeding and formula and members may have ideas for where to find formula. Make sure to check any advice with your pediatrician.
• Contact Wadena County Human Services for help or more information at 218-631-7605.
• If you breastfeed and use formula, there are some ways you can try to increase your milk supply; however, this does not happen overnight and is not an option available for everyone. Find more information here: https://www.health.state.mn.us/people/wic/bf/recall.html.
• Do not water down formula to stretch it out, as it is not safe. Always follow label instructions or those given to you by your pediatrician. Watering down formula is dangerous. It can cause nutritional imbalances in your baby and lead to serious health problems. Always mix formula as directed by the manufacturer.
• Do not attempt to make your own homemade infant formula. If you have questions or are concerned about feeding your baby, talk to your child’s healthcare provider.
For more information visit: https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/formula-shortage.html#catfeeding.