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SMMC’S TIPS FOR NAVIGATING THE FORMULA SHORTAGE
By: Sejal Iyer | May 26, 2022
The current national formula shortage is distressing for all mothers who are worried about how they will feed their babies. As a mother’s club with the majority of the kids in our families under 5 years of age, we understand how greatly impacted our community is by this scarcity.
Last week, the FDA and Abbott reached an agreement that may result in easing the shortage. In the meantime, we are here with you. As usual when adversity strikes, moms like to band together to solve problems. Our club has sprung into action to pool our resources to help our members tackle this problem together.
Join the Formula Exchange!
SMMC has set up a “Formula Exchange” platform on Whatsapp to help connect the moms who need formula to those who have some to spare. Please join our Whatsapp Channel HERE >>.
Advice for Navigating the Formula Shortage
CALL YOUR PEDIATRICIAN’S OFFICE
Your pediatrician may be able to point you to known local supply. In addition, they may be able to provide you with samples of formula or connect you with local hospitals that may have extra supply.
IMPORT FROM OVERSEAS
If you are considering purchasing formula from outside the US for the first time, discuss your plans with your pediatrician first. Formula sold outside the US is not regulated by the FDA.
That said, SMMC moms have purchased European formula from the following stores:
https://organicsbestshop.com/
https://www.formuland.com/
https://www.myorganicformula.com/
VISIT A MOTHER’S MILK BANK
Mamas who produce excess supply often donate their breastmilk to a milk bank. Nutritionally, that is an unbeatable way to feed your child. The American Academy of Pediatrics supports the use of banked milk, as does La Leche League International, the world's largest breast-feeding resource. However, doctors warn against using unscreened milk, and especially against buying milk on the Internet or through friends.
There is a Mother’s Milk Bank in the Bay Area, based in San Jose.
Mother's Milk Bank
1887 Monterey Road, Suite 105-110, San Jose, CA 95112
1-877-375-6645
CONSIDER ALTERNATIVES
Take the opportunity to discuss alternative formula options with your baby’s doctor. While some babies have very specific medical needs, there are a lot of nutritional similarities across formula brands. Don’t be afraid to try store brands as well (e.g. Costco) as these haven’t been impacted by the recall, and are also regulated by the FDA.
CALL YOUR LOCAL FOOD BANK
They may be able to point you in the right direction of where to find formula.
CHECK YOUR ONLINE RESOURCES OFTEN
If you have an online resource showing no inventory, check back often. Online inventory can change daily if not hourly, and you shouldn’t rely on “restock” notifications to alert you to availability.
The New York Times has an updated list of sites and formula brands currently in stock at major retailers.
LEVERAGE YOUR PERSONAL NETWORK
Reach out to family and friends and let them know about your situation. They can be your eyes and ears on the ground to help locate formula in local markets.
For more information, resources and ideas, check out this national fact sheet.