Finish Formula Release For Free

The Abbott closure was the catalyst to a crisis that has been years in the making: Policies and legislation that have permitted market consolidation of formula production by just a few companies, ongoing supply chain issues due to the pandemic, and corporate profiteering made this national shortage possible.

2. Why is there a shortage? Long-term economic pressures collided with a sudden supply shock. The long-term issues stem from the pandemic, which disrupted supply chains of myriad products -- including ingredients used in baby formula -- and caused labor shortages that are vexing many industries.

The US Food and Drug Administration commissioner said last week that formula production needs to continue at high levels for six to eight more weeks for supply to keep up with demand. Programs designed to help families affected by the shortage are being extended, too.

The initial cause of the formula shortage was COVID-19-related supply chain issues, with some sources, including The Atlantic and Popular Mechanics, identifying these as still being (as of mid-May) the leading cause. The shortage began in the early days of the pandemic, and worsened with subsequent labor shortages.

No one's ready to declare the formula shortage of 2022 resolved. In many locations, Kroger, Walmart and Target are still limiting the amount of formula an individual can purchase. The federal government is still flying formula in from overseas. The popular brand Similac is still weeks from distribution.

The President invoked the Defense Production Act. This law puts U.S. formula manufacturers first in line to receive the resources they need to increase formula production. The President is also working with other countries to airlift formula to the U.S. through Operation Fly Formula.

If you run out of formula and can't find any, in a pinch you can give oral rehydration solution (such as Pedialyte, Enfalyte, or a store brand) for a couple of days. Babies older than 4 to 6 months can also get pureed (finely ground) foods.

Call your pediatrician if you can't formula you need for your baby. They may have samples in stock, connections to other local organizations or ideas of other places to call, such as your local WIC clinic. Also consider: If you can afford it, buy formula online until store shortages ease.

On Feb. 17, 2022, the U.S Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced a recall of certain Abbott powder infant formula and exempt infant formula, which exacerbated existing supply chain issues resulting from the ongoing Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic.

The US Food and Drug Administration commissioner said last week that formula production needs to continue at high levels for six to eight more weeks for supply to keep up with demand. Programs designed to help families affected by the shortage are being extended, too.