COVID-19 Leads To Baby Formula Shortages

COVID-19 has led to some unusual shopping behavior, with many people loading their shopping carts with toilet paper, pasta, rice, flour as well as baby formula

While there is no production shortage of any of these and other products that are produced on a “Just In Time” basis, this stockpiling has led to empty shelves and shortages. The follow on effect is that as soon as the product is replenished it is simply cleaned out again.

What To Do

First thing is to take a deep breath, stay calm. The run on goods may have only been at one or two stores that you usually shop at, so have a look at other stores in the vicinity or get online on your smartphone.

One of the major well-known formula Manufacturers Similac has stated “there has been no impact on availability of Abbott Nutrition products or distribution in the United States. We have a large global manufacturing and distribution network and have plans in place to manage contingencies as needed”.

There is no need to panic buy and stockpile. Buy enough for your requirements, remember there are other Mom’s in the same predicament who also require formula.

Once stores and supermarkets adjust their restocking levels there will not be any shortage of stock issues.

Still worried, a few things that can help you get through

• If your child is younger than 6 months, talk to your pediatrician and see if they can source some formula from a local representative. Try the local WIC Office or local charities they may be able to assist.
• It is a little easier if your child is older than 6 months, you can substitute whole cow’s milk for a few days until the shortage is overcome. Although this is not ideal it will get you by
• Also, check smaller stores and drug stores, as they are not frequented as much they have stock, it may be a little more expensive, but it will get you through.
• Buy formula online until shortages are overcome. Remember to buy from well known retailers rather than “one-off” individual offerings online or online auction sites.
• In an emergency it is OK to switch to any available formula for most babies, unless your baby is on a specific diet that limits or restricts the formula you can offer. If you have any doubts whatsoever discuss it with your pediatrician.
• Possibly the simplest solution borrowing from a friend if you are unable to find a store or online stockist with any product available.

Even though your local supermarket, corner store or drugstore are all out of baby formula there are many well known online retailers such as Amazon.

Once again just buy enough, and possibly a little more, for your needs, don’t go overboard.

Some further ideas to keep in mind if you cannot get your regular brand

• Buy made in USA products. This will ensure that the baby formula is made to FDA regulations, and will be within the expiration date
• If your usual brand isn’t available talk to your pediatrician about what brands and types of formula you can substitute. For babies with dietary issues you will need to stick with the same type, if your baby has soy formula, then you will need to stick with soy.

If you cannot get your brand locally, go to the supplier’s website and use the store locator function, before heading to the store, then give them a call to make sure that they have stock.