Jonah JacobsMillions of babies in the U.S. alone rely on formula for their nutritional needs as they grow. But with nearly half of the top brands sold out at stores from coast to coast, their parents are now scrambling for solutions. If you are one such parent, don’t panic, as we will reveal a new website that can help you find infant formula while sharing several tips that may assist as well.
The New Infant Formula Website From The Department Of Health And Human Services
The HHS just launched a new site listing resources that parents can use to find baby formula during the shortage. The website can be found here, and it’s quite easy to use. Contact each of the resources listed on the site and follow any tips, and you should soon feel better about your baby’s nutritional needs.
Tips For Finding Baby Formula
While you may strike gold via the new website from the HHS, here are other ways to fill the baby formula void until everything goes back to normal, as recommended by pediatricians and health experts.
Switch To the Store Brand
Are you having trouble finding baby formula because you are loyal to one specific brand? If so, give the store-brand formula a try, as it may be easier to find, and it probably has similar ingredients, unless your infant is using a specialty formula. To play it safe, read the labels before purchasing.
Call Your Pediatrician
Many pediatricians keep formula samples on hand. Give yours a call to see if you have any luck, as some samples may hold you over until stores are restocked. When speaking to your pediatrician, ask about European baby formulas that may be easier to find.
Use This Baby Formula Alternative
If your baby is six months or older and does not have special needs, you may be able to substitute whole cow’s milk for formula for a short period. Before making the swap, consult your pediatrician.
Contact Breast Milk Banks
Many women donate their breast milk to nonprofit milk banks, which then distribute those donations to local milk banks, pharmacies, and other organizations. Ask your pediatrician if your baby can accept donated breast milk. If so, they can give you a prescription for it. Then, contact a local milk bank to get a donation.
You can find milk banks via Google or try this site.
Get On Social Media
Support groups on social media are starting to spring up in response to the baby formula shortage. On Facebook, for instance, you can do a search for baby formula, then select the groups tab to see what’s nearest you. Join the group and start communicating, and you could find what you need. If Facebook doesn’t yield any results, try Nextdoor.
Try Breastfeeding
If your baby is on a formula diet, reach out to a lactation consultant to see if breastfeeding can be a solution. If it is and you need to buy a breast pump, know that most insurers will cover the cost.
Avoid Homemade Solutions
Experts warn that giving a baby a homemade formula during their first few months could be dangerous. Diluting formula to make it last longer is also not recommended.
