Key takeaways: During shortages, switching to a similar formula, including store brands, is usually safe. Never water down formula or make homemade formula. Toddler formula and cow’s milk aren’t substitutes for young babies, except in short-term emergencies under guidance. Check recalls at FDA.gov and call your pediatrician for help.
Formula shortages and recalls can be scary. Here’s how to keep your baby safe.
If You Can’t Find Your Formula
- Try a similar formula, including store brands. All U.S. formulas meet FDA nutrient requirements.
- Check smaller stores, pharmacies, and online retailers from reputable sources.
- Call your pediatrician, who may have samples or know local supplies.
- Contact WIC if you’re enrolled.
- Call the formula maker, which may help locate supply.
If Your Baby Uses a Specialty Formula
Call your pediatrician right away. Hypoallergenic and metabolic formulas have fewer substitutes, and switching needs medical guidance.
From the author
From First Breath to First Birthday is my month-by-month guide to your baby’s first year, written as a NICU and postpartum nurse. My book walks you through feeding month by month, from the first days home to the first birthday, with the warning signs that mean it’s time to call the doctor.
Never Do These
- Don’t water down formula. It can cause dangerous electrolyte problems and poor growth.
- Don’t make homemade formula. The FDA and AAP warn against it.
- Don’t buy from unknown online sellers or imported formula not approved by the FDA.
Emergency Options
The AAP has said that in an emergency, for a very short time:
- Toddler formula may be used for a few days for babies close to 1 year.
- Whole cow’s milk may be used for a week or so for babies over 6 months who are on regular formula, but isn’t ideal.
Talk to your pediatrician first.
Recalls
- Check the FDA recalls page and the formula maker’s website.
- Check the lot number on the can or container.
- Stop using recalled formula and contact the maker for a refund or replacement.
- Call your doctor if your baby has symptoms after using recalled formula.
If You’re Breastfeeding
Some people who stopped recently consider relactating. Talk with an IBCLC.
Call your baby’s doctor if your baby: has fever, vomiting, diarrhea, poor feeding, or seems unwell, especially after using recalled formula.
The Bottom Line
Switch to a similar formula, never dilute or make homemade formula, check recalls, and call your pediatrician for help.
Want more support for your baby’s first year? My book, From First Breath to First Birthday, is available on Amazon.
Related Articles
- Is It Okay to Switch Formula Brands?
- How to Choose an Infant Formula (Hint: Store Brands Are Fine)
- How to Prepare Formula Safely: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Switching to Whole Milk at 12 Months
Sources
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Infant formula: information for parents and caregivers; recalls. https://www.fda.gov
- American Academy of Pediatrics. How to safely feed your baby during the infant formula shortage. HealthyChildren.org. https://www.healthychildren.org
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Infant formula preparation and storage. https://www.cdc.gov
This article is for general education and is not a substitute for individualized medical advice. Always talk with your baby’s health care provider or your own provider about your specific situation. If you think your baby or you may have a medical emergency, call 911.
