Stressed by the baby formula shortage? Here are 10 tips to know.

Beth Reese Cravey, Florida Times-Union
·2 min read
Baby formula is displayed on the shelves of a grocery store with a sign limiting purchases in Indianapolis on May 10.
Baby formula is displayed on the shelves of a grocery store with a sign limiting purchases in Indianapolis on May 10.

Amid the ongoing baby formula shortage, parents are looking for alternatives. Here are some tips from the American Academy of Pediatrics, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and news reports:

• Check smaller stores and drug stores instead of the big retailers.

• If your normal baby formula has become unavailable, consult your pediatrician's office. They may have samples in stock and can also recommend the best other options for your child.

• Check with manufacturers: Gerber’s MyGerber Baby Expert, gerber.com/mygerber-baby-expert; manufacturer Abbott, (800) 986-8540; manufacturer Reckitt, (800) 222-9123.

• If you can afford it, order online. But do not order formulas from abroad unless you first ensure that they have been FDA-reviewed for nutrition and safety.

Baby formula shortage worsens: About 40% of popular brands sold out across US

What is causing the shortage?  Supply chain issues, product recalls blamed

Closed baby formula factory to reopen: FDA reaches deal with Abbott; how long until it's back on shelves?

• Switching formula brands and/or seeking out donor breastmilk banks are safe. Find locations at hmbana.org/find-a-milk-bank/overview.html. Informal breastmilk sharing is not usually recommended because of potential health and safety risks.

• Never dilute formula or try homemade recipes.

• Never use cow, goat or plant-based milk. Soy milk may be given to babies who are close to a year of age for a few days in an emergency, but only the kind that is fortified with protein and calcium.

• Do not use toddler formula instead of infant formula. They address different nutritional needs.

Baby formula recall 2022: FDA warns consumers not to use select Similac, Alimentum and EleCare

What are safe substitutes? Amid worsening shortage, avoid homemade recipes

• Seek help from social media groups dedicated to parenting.

• Children who are over 6 months old can slowly receive supplemental nutrition with some solids, according to the CDC. Talk to your pediatrician about options and preparation.

bcravey@jacksonville.com, (904) 359-4109

This article originally appeared on Florida Times-Union: Stressed by the baby formula shortage? Here are 10 tips to know