Where is all the baby formula? Frustrated parents are scrambling to find some types of infant formula amid a nationwide shortage.
The reason for the shortage is the shutdown of a Michigan formula processing facility that was blamed for producing contaminated formula that resulted in the deaths of two babies. The company, Abbott, disagrees with the findings. Abbott has said they could open back up in as soon as two weeks.
There are also supply chain issues related to pandemic purchasing patterns and trade laws that prevent getting formula from other countries, such as Canada.
Specialty formulas and critical medical foods, those used by people of all ages with severe food allergies, are the most scarce right now. Some pediatricians have samples that they can share, or families can deal with Abbott, who makes most of the highly specialized formula.
The FDA warns parents to be leery of recipes for homemade baby formula and should never water down formula to make it last longer. Toddler formulas are recommended only as a last resort for older babies. A link to more information can be found at WGRT.com.
Anyone needing specialized formulas can call Abbott at 1-800-881-0876 to request a product on a case-by-case basis.
Reporting for WGRT – Jennie McClelland
