The current baby formula shortage has many parents worried about how they’re going to feed their babies. Thanks to pandemic supply chain issues and the closing of a major producer of baby formula back in February of this year, many brands are out of stock on store shelves across the country.
While the crisis is concerning, there are things parents can do and alternatives to their baby’s regular formula to help get through this tough time. Now is not the time to panic but to get creative. Below, we offer several crucial tips for parents navigating the baby formula shortage.
Do Not Feed Your Baby Homemade Formula
Babies require a special balance of vitamins and nutrients to develop and grow properly. Their little bodies can’t tolerate as many substances as older bodies can. Feeding homemade formula may cause electrolyte imbalances and a failure to thrive.
The only safe baby formula is one that is designed for the specific needs of infants, and homemade formula doesn’t fit that bill. We know the shortage is worrisome, but the suggestions below will give you safe and nutritious options for feeding your baby during this time.
Consider Using a Generic Brand
If your baby has been eating a high-end brand of baby formula, consider switching to a generic equivalent. These store brands are more readily available right now and are just as nutritious and safe for your baby. They are also cheaper than the major brands of formula.
Store brand formulas are made in the US and are approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). They provide the same level of nutrition as the higher-end brands and might be easier to find during this time.
Switch Formula Bases
Most healthy babies can tolerate switching between milk-based, soy-based, and sensitive formulations without issue. Babies with allergies, on the other hand, are less tolerant of changes to their diets. With that said, if your baby hasn’t shown signs of sensitivities in their diet, you may consider switching between these bases if your usual brand is out of stock.
To make the transition easier, you can mix the old formula with the new one, which will allow your baby’s digestive tract to get used to the change. If you don’t have enough of the old formula to do this, switching directly from the old formula to the new is fine too.
Consider Feeding Breast Milk
While doctors encourage new mothers to breastfeed their infants, there are many reasons why this isn’t an option for some. Even if you didn’t start breastfeeding your little one, you can get breast milk from donors through your state’s human milk bank. Ask your pediatrician if there is one near you.
Be Careful Buying Baby Formula Online
The simple truth is that you just don’t know what you’re getting when you buy from an unknown source online. Only buy baby formula online from reputable sources, and avoid purchasing formula from outside the US as these formulas aren’t regulated by the FDA.
If you aren’t having any luck finding the formula you need for your baby, check with local food banks, or contact your local Women, Infant, and Children (WIC) office for assistance.
These are tough times for parents of babies, but there are options for feeding your little one safely and nutritionally. If you’ve exhausted all your options and still can’t find formula for your baby, contact your pediatrician for assistance.
