Baby Formula Shortage
There have been substantial shortages of infant formula in several supermarkets since the onset of COVID-19. Supply chain concerns and a recall of numerous contaminated baby formula items are to blame for the current shortages. Check availability with your local stores or online vendors. Currently, we recommend purchasing no more than a 10-day to a 2-week supply of formula to assist alleviate the impact of shortages.
What if your child’s formula isn't available anywhere?
The US Food and Drug Administration has indicated that it is taking steps to help increase baby and specialized formula supplies. If you're having trouble finding baby formula during the shortage, here are some suggestions. Keep in mind that this is just for EMERGENCY situations. Please speak with one of our pediatricians if you have any concerns regarding your baby's nutrition.
Smaller businesses and medicine stores may not be out of stock at the same time as the larger ones.
Buy formula online if you can afford it until store shortages subside. Rather than buying from individual sellers or auction sites, buy from well-known distributors and pharmacies. Imported formula is not FDA-approved, so don't buy it from another country.
Unless your baby is on a specific highly hydrolyzed or amino acid-based formula like Elecare, it's fine to transition to any accessible formula, including retail brands. Inquire with your pediatrician about specialty formula alternatives for your infant.
Look through social media groups. There are groups dedicated to infant feeding and formula, and members may know where to get it. Always consult your pediatrician before acting on any advice.
Is cow's milk a safe substitute for infant formula?
If your child is older than 6 months, you can feed them full cow's milk for a limited time until the shortage is alleviated. This isn't ideal and shouldn't be done on a regular basis, but it's a better option than diluting formula or producing your own. The most crucial consideration when providing cow's milk to a child beyond the age of six months is that they get adequate iron. While utilizing whole cow's milk, make sure to incorporate lots of iron-rich solid foods in their diet. You could also discuss giving your kid an iron supplement with one of our pediatricians.
Is it permissible to add more water to infant formula?
No. While it may be tempting to dilute the mix to make it last longer, this is not recommended. Always follow the directions on the label or those provided by your pediatrician. It's risky to dilute a formula. It might lead to dietary imbalances in your child and major health issues. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions when mixing the recipe.
If necessary, can I substitute plant-based milk for baby formula?
Alternatives to milk are not suggested for babies under the age of one year or for infants who require specialized formulae due to medical issues. In an emergency, soy milk may be given to babies under the age of one for a few days, but always buy one that is fortified with protein and calcium. Avoid almond milk and other plant milks if possible, as they are generally deficient in protein and minerals.
Is it possible to make my own infant formula?
Our providers advise against making your own formula. Although internet recipes for homemade formulas may appear nutritious or cost less, they are not safe and do not meet your baby's nutritional needs. The use of some homemade formulae has been linked to infant deaths.
How long does baby formula stay fresh?
Check the "use by" date on infant formula containers, which is mandated by FDA regulations. Until that date, the formula will contain the amount of each nutrient listed on the product label and be of acceptable quality.
Is it possible to switch toddler formula for regular formula?
Infants should not be given toddler formula. However, if you have no other option, toddler formula is safe for newborns under the age of a year for a few days.
If you have any worries about your baby's health or nutrition, don't hesitate to speak with one of our pediatricians. If your child has a medical condition, talk to your provider about medically appropriate and safe feeding options.
Source: American Academy of Pediatricians Healthy Children