05/16/2022
We are aware of the formula shortage that is causing distress for many of our patient families. Here are the recommendations from the American Academy of Pediatrics that we would like to share.
* Check smaller stores and drug stores, which may not be out of supply when the bigger stores are.
* If you can afford it, buy formula online until store shortages ease. Purchase from well-recognized distributors and pharmacies rather than individually sold or auction sites. DO NOT import formula from overseas, since imported formula is not FDA-reviewed.
* For most babies, it is OK to switch to any available formula, including store brands, unless your baby has a doctor-diagnosed allergy or intolerance and requires specialty formulas such as Nutramigen or Elecare (no store brand exists). It is also fine to use concentrate or ready-to-feed for a child who usually uses powdered formula. At this point nutrition is most important and some may have to put up with additional spitting or gas.
https://www.perrigopediatrics.com/AbbottRecall/
* Check social media groups. There are groups dedicated to infant feeding and formula, and members may have ideas for where to find formula. (FB group - St. Louis Formula Swap. Beware of scammers!)
* DO NOT add more water to formula to stretch it out. Always follow label instructions or those given to you by your pediatrician. Watering down formula is dangerous. It can cause nutritional imbalances in your baby and lead to serious health problems. Always mix formula as directed by the manufacturer.
* Toddler formulas are not recommended for infants. 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.
* Whole milk may be started early within a few weeks of the baby's first birthday but not earlier than 11mo. Be sure to include plenty of iron-containing solid foods (meat, spinach, beans) in their diet while you are using whole cow's milk.
* Milk alternatives are not recommended for babies under a year of age or infants with certain medical conditions requiring specialized formulas. Be especially careful to avoid almond milk or other plant milks as these are often low in protein and minerals.