Why is there a formula shortage?
There are several reasons, including supply chain "snags", rising inflation, and recalls of baby formula products. One "snag" was the shutdown of a factory that has not reopened and another is shortages of key ingredients.
Good news - there has been an increase in production over the past few weeks and there should be more formula available soon.
Can I switch between formula brands? formula types? and between powder and Ready-To-Feed?
In most cases, the answer will be Yes. Many standard formulas are made very similarly. Common brand names like Enfamil, Gerber, and Similac are comparable to generic/store labels manufactured by Target, Walgreens, Walmart, and Costco. The main components of these formulas are often similar/same.
Yes, you can try a similar version of the same brand. Just take it slow and monitor. For example, you can temporarily switch between Enfamil neuro pro, enspire, and gentlease.
Yes, you can switch between powder and Ready-To-Feed formulas
Parents have asked if they should expect problems going from an Organic brand to a standard brand. Most infants will tolerate this just fine.
When switching formulas, try to stay within the same category as your current mixture. These categories include milk-based and soy-based varieties.
Please portal message or call our office, if your child is on a special formula. Specifically any "hydrolyzed formulas" like Nutramigen, Alimentum, or Gerber Extensive HA. We can provide recommendations.
If your baby is on Elecare, please call our office for advice.
Can I make a homemade formula using an online recipe?
No. Commercially manufactured formula is carefully designed to deliver the right balance of protein, carbohydrates, and fats with vitamins and minerals similar to breast milk
Should I dilute or add more water to the formula to make it last longer?
No. Never dilute formula. It is dangerous and can lead to metabolic or electrolyte imbalances. Always mix formula as instructed.
What about donor breast milk?
This is a very personal preference. You would want to consider using an established breast milk bank if you decide to do so.
Can I get formula shipped from other countries?
We advise only formulas regulated and approved by the FDA.
Many imported formulas are not held to the same monitoring and standards as those approved by the FDA
I can not find any formula at all, what now?
Our office has very limited samples available for pick up in our office. Please send us a message in the portal with your request and we will let you know if we are able to provide you a sample that meets your babies needs.
Purchase from well-recognized distributors and pharmacies rather than individually sold or auction sites
Can I use toddler formula?
In general, we do not advise use toddler formula in infants. Infant formula is designed specifically for the developmental and nutritional needs of babies under 12 months.
However, if you absolutely have no other choice, toddler formula is safe for a few days for babies who are close to a year of age, no younger than 11 months old.
How early can we introduce whole cow's milk in the current situation?
It is rare that children under 12 months can tolerate, digest, and get needed nutrients from a cow's milk predominate diet.
It is challenging to provide general guidance in this area. Please do not start cow's milk before 12 months without consulting with our office.
Some infants over 11 months can tolerate a brief shift to whole cow's milk during this shortage. Parents should only use until formula is available and monitor for stomach upset, diarrhea, and blood in stool. They would also need to increase solid foods in a balanced manner.
If you have any non-urgent questions please portal message us.
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