Why is there a baby formula shortage in the U.S.?
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First, a big American manufacturer of baby formula announced a recall of formula because infants had become sick after consuming the formula.
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Secondly, the global pandemic COVID 19 has affected the supply chain – increasing the time it takes to manufacture and ship products to retailers and delaying getting a safe product to parent consumers.
Reach out to Your Baby Consultant for tips and advice from our staff of registered nurses in Annapolis and Charleston areas. We also offer virtual consultations or will travel to meet you where you are located.
What formula was recalled?
As of May 2022, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has issued a warning “Do not use recalled Similac, Alimentum and EleCare powdered infant formulas produced in Sturgis, Michigan” due to a bacterial infection in babies who consumed these products.
How do I know if my formula is recalled?
Check your formula packaging if you think it falls within this recall of formula brand and description. The FDA website shows you how to read the product code on their website to see if your formula is included in the recall. View a full list of the recalled brands and products codes on the FDA website.
Here is the link of recalled baby formula: https://www.fda.gov/consumers/powdered-infant-formula-recall-what-know
Tips for feeding baby during this baby formula shortage
Heatlhychildren.org shares the following tips to parents who are concerned about having baby formula for their infant.
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The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends buying no more than a 10 day supply so there is enough formula for all consumers and manufacturers can meet demand of formula buyers.
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Check smaller drug stores versus big box stores.
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Look for baby formula online from well known retailers. Not auction sites or personal for sale ads.
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Do not water down your baby formula by adding more water than the recipe calls for. This is dangerous for baby.
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Do not try to make your own formula. This is dangerous for baby.
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Cow’s milk or goat’s milk or plant based milk may be alternatives for older babies close to 1 year of age and without allergies to regular formula, however, please check with your pediatrician first.
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If your baby is not on an allergy specific formula, it is safe to switch brands and regular formula.
Always trust a reputable source for information on baby formula and infant care. You can always contact your pediatrician or health care provider to verify information regarding feeding your baby, changing feedings and baby formula options.
Contact Your Baby Consultant team of Registered nurses, if you have any questions about safe baby formula, formula feeding schedules, introducing baby food, feeding baby solid foods, baby bottle or formula weaning.