Can’t find your baby’s formula? Here’s what you should (and shouldn’t) do

Baby formula shortage (CNN Newsource)

It started with supply chain issues, and then a recall hit.

Families in Virginia and across the country are struggling as the hunt baby formula intensifies — with no end in sight, according to some experts.

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Here’s what you can do if you find yourself in a pinch:

Identify if your formula is affected by the recall

  • The first two digits of the code are 22 through 37 and
  • The code on the container contains K8, SH, or Z2, and
  • The expiration date is 4-1-2022 (APR 2022) or later.
  • Products should be checked by lot number here to see if they are included in the recall.
  • DO NOT use recalled formula or throw away formula cans

Can’t find your normal formula?

  • Check online to see if you can purchase right from the retailer
  • Amazon does sell baby formula, but health experts warn to be wary of third-party sellers and urge parents to buy directly from the retailer if possible

Contact your physician if...

  • Your infant is experiencing any of the following: poor feeding, irritability, temperature changes, jaundice, grunting breaths, abnormal movements, diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps.

Still can’t find your usual formula? Here are some substitutes that are WIC approved

  • The Virginia Department of Health has released a full list of temporary formula substitutions that have been approved by WIC. Note that Isomil, NeoSure and all concentrated liquids and ready-to-feeds have not been affected by this recall.
  • You can see the full list of substitutes here

Here’s what you shouldn’t do, according to health experts...

  • Make your own formula
  • Over-dilute formula
  • Feed your baby cow’s milk or cow’s milk substitutes if they are under one year old

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