What families can do during the baby formula shortage
COVID-19 has brought change to numerous areas of daily life. One major effect of the pandemic has been disruptions and delays in the global supply chain. And, with the recent powdered infant formula recall, baby formula has become incredibly difficult to find and purchase. San Antonio is among a handful of major metropolitan cities suffering the highest rates of infant formula shortage in the nation, causing anxiety for many local families.
So, what should families do in light of the formula shortage?
Before solid foods are introduced between four to six months of age, breast milk or U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved infant formulas are the only safe sources of nutrition for many young babies. Families can consult the guidelines provided by the American Academy of Pediatrics and follow the advice below to support the best nutritional options for babies.
If parents cannot find the formula that their baby usually takes:
- -Try another FDA-approved formula brand with similar characteristics. If you do not know which other options your baby could take, please contact your pediatrician or health care provider for more information.
- -Check for formulas in other local stores such as reputable grocers or pharmacies. Your local WIC clinic, Any Baby Can or the San Antonio Food Bank can provide more local resources.
- -If you cannot find any formula and your baby is older than six months, cow’s milk could be a temporary alternative (for no more than one week) until you can find an infant formula option. It’s important to note that cow’s milk could lead to anemia in infants. So, for children who are old enough to start on solid foods, be sure to provide iron-rich options like meat, green veggies and iron-fortified cereal.
- -Plant-based milks are usually not recommended for babies because they are low in proteins and minerals. However, one temporary alternative — for no more than one week — is soy milk. Make sure to purchase soy milk fortified with vitamin D and calcium.
- -For mothers who can breastfeed, try to pump after nursing to save breast milk supply for your baby. Make sure to talk to your pediatrician if you have any questions about how to initiate, relactation or optimize breastfeeding.
What families should avoid:
- -Imported formulas have not yet been approved by the FDA. The government is working with the FDA to review this option, but until imported formulas are approved, they should be avoided.
- -Parents should not prepare and give homemade formulas as this could increase the risk of bacterial contamination and may not offer proper nutrition to your baby.
- -Do not add water to the formula, which will reduce the caloric intake and nutritional benefits for your baby.
Mealtimes are priceless opportunities to share and nurture your relationship with your child. The pediatricians and primary care providers at UT Health Physicians can answer questions and provide guidance or nutritional support for your child during the formula shortage. To make an appointment, visit our website or call 210-450-6120.
For additional information, families can read the following articles from the American Academy of Pediatrics.