Navigating the Infant Formula Shortage

Source: City of Santa Barbara

Families across the nation are feeling the impact of the infant formula shortage. Efforts to mitigate the shortage are ongoing at the state and national level. 

Parents and caregivers who face a shortage should call their healthcare providers first to help them navigate formula options when supplies are scarce.

Parents and caregivers are advised to NOT dilute formula or use homemade recipes for substitution as this can seriously harm a baby’s health. Homemade baby formula recipes on the Internet may seem like the solution, they can be dangerous to your baby’s health. Pediatricians warn that homemade formula may not be safe or meet your baby’s nutritional needs.

Babies usually tolerate alternative formula products except in the case of special therapeutic formula and that’s why it’s important to consult with their healthcare provider first to get help or to discuss alternatives.

Due to recent formula shortages, some stores may limit the number of cans that can be purchased per shopping trip. 

Baby_Formula_5-03.png

WIC recommends:

  • Contact WIC for Temporary Powdered Infant Formula Options.
  • Shop on or sooner after your benefit start date.
  • Call stores before you shop to ask if your formula is in stock or to find out when they expect to receive their next shipment.
  • Talk to your pediatrician about a safe alternative if you are having trouble finding your specific formula.
  • Parents and caregivers should never dilute infant formula and should not make or feed homemade infant formula to infants. 
     

Click here for a list of WIC authorized stores and their phone numbers in Santa Barbara County. 

Additional FAQ’s and information can be found on the California Department of Public Health‘s website.

What do you think?

Comments

0 Comments deleted by Administrator

Leave a Review or Comment

3 Comments

California Assembly Advances Gun Violence Prevention Package

Firefighters Battling Fire in Santa Maria Condo Complex