What is causing the baby formula shortage? Supply chain issues, product recalls blamed
The ongoing infant formula shortage appears to be getting worse, with nearly 40% of popular baby formula brands sold out at retailers across the U.S. during the week starting April 24, according to an analysis by Datasembly, which assessed supplies at more than 11,000 stores.
That's a higher level than other products, said Ben Reich, CEO of the Tysons, Virginia-based research firm.
"Inflation, supply chain shortages, and product recalls have brought an unprecedented amount of volatility to the category, and we expect to continue to see baby formula as one of the most affected categories in the market,” he said.
Some retailers have been rationing sales.
Maker recalls Similac, Alimentum and EleCare formulas
In February, Abbott Nutrition voluntarily recalled three types of infant formula after four babies became sick with bacteria infections after consuming the products.
The recall was for select lots of Similac, Alimentum and EleCare formulas that were manufactured at an Abbott facility in Sturgis, Michigan.
In March, the Food and Drug Administration issued preliminary findings about the formula maker's failure to maintain sanitary conditions and procedures at that plant.
CVS, Target, Walgreens limit amount of formula shoppers can purchase
Walgreens continues to limit shoppers to three infant and toddler formula products per transaction, Walgreens Boots Alliance spokesman Steve Cohen said. "Due to increased demand and various supplier challenges, infant and toddler formulas are seeing constraint across the country," he said.
Baby formula shortage worsens: About 40% of popular brands sold out across US
The situation is the same at CVS, which limits three baby formula products per purchase in its stores and online, according to a statement to USA TODAY from CVS Health, which owns the pharmacy chain. "We’re continuing to work with our baby formula vendors to address this issue and we regret any inconvenience this causes our customers," the statement continued.
Target is also limiting shoppers to up to four formula products at a time, the retailer told CBS News.
How to cope with the infant formula shortage
As if having a newborn during a pandemic isn’t hard enough ongoing formula shortages have thrust new parents into a state of panic. But if you find the shelves at your local grocery bare, there are other options you can try.
Baby formula: Shortage is getting worse—here are other options to feed an infant
You may find a better supply at convenience store chains, local pharmacies and baby specialty stores in your area. Manufacturer websites often have information on where to find stock, so you can usually even check before you make the drive.
You can also ask your pediatrician for assistance, especially if you need a specialty formula for health reasons.
“Most have a [variety of samples] and a stock of products for children of complex needs. They don’t have enough supply to feed all of their patients, but, if you are waiting on a formula order, your pediatrician can help you make it through,” says Adam Barsella, a pediatrician at Northwestern Medicine Central DuPage Hospital in Winfield, Illinois.
This article originally appeared on Akron Beacon Journal: Baby formula shortage in Ohio, USA: What's the cause?
