Infant Formula Shortage

We know that many North Carolina families and caregivers are worried about finding formula for their babies. Formula supply is an evolving situation. Many families are having trouble finding their usual formula, and some have needed to visit multiple stores. NCDHHS is closely monitoring supply, working with the federal government, manufacturers, and retailers to get more formula on North Carolina shelves. Our goal is to ensure safe and nutritious options for North Carolina families, and the NCDHHS team has been actively working on several fronts.

Important Reminders:

  • Remember that most families have multiple safe options for their infants even if their usual formula is not in stock. If you can’t find formula or can’t find your baby’s typical formula, work with your child’s health care provider to determine the best feeding plan.
  • Do NOT water down your baby’s formula to stretch it out, it can be extremely dangerous to your baby to do so.
  • Do NOT make homemade formula. A baby's nutritional needs are very specific, and homemade formula may contain too little or too much of certain vitamins and minerals, like iron. 
  • Do NOT buy formula from online auctions, unknown individuals, or unknown origins. Storage and shipping conditions may impact formula safety.

Additional Formula Options for WIC Participants:

To support families during the infant formula shortage, the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services is making it easier for WIC participants to purchase more types of formula. On May 31, 2022, the North Carolina WIC Program began issuing benefits for more sizes of Gerber formula and two additional Gerber formula products. Effective June 6, 2022, NC WIC is making even more formula brands and types available to WIC families that can be purchased at the store when approved Gerber products are not readily available. These changes will help families buy the formula that is available in stores throughout the shortage.

Learn more about available resources and guidance on what families can do and what to avoid:

Most families have multiple safe options for their infants even if their usual formula is not in stock. We encourage families to ask their child’s health care provider about safe nutrition options for their baby if they are having difficulty finding their usual formula, particularly for babies who need specialized formula.

Learn more about standard formula options:

Information for health care providers:

Breastfeeding Resources and Support

During the infant formula shortage, some parents and expectant parents have wanted to learn more about breastfeeding. These handouts provide information and resources to support you:

More information is available at these sites:
WIC Breastfeeding Resources
NC Making It Work Toolkit
North Carolina Breastfeeding Coalition
Carolina Global Breastfeeding Institute
American Academy of Pediatrics

https://www.ncdhhs.gov/formula