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.

Infant Formula Guidance for Families:

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 on Formula Imported from Other Countries

The federal government is facilitating the importation of additional infant formula to ease the shortage Some of this formula is being imported through Operation Fly Formula and being distributed through typical distribution channels to stores and health care providers. The Food and Drug Administration is also easing some regulations to support the import of additional brands and types of formulas from overseas. Families can follow updates and product information on the FDA’s website.

Recommendations for using imported formula:

  • Follow the mixing instructions on the product label. These instructions may be very different from what you are used to. Some instructions will be in metric units. For more information, review the FDA’s Tips for Preparing Imported Infant Formula. 
  • Do not try to import formula yourself, because you can't be sure it meets U.S. safety standards. Rely on what has been approved by the FDA. Contact your pediatrician if you are unsure if a formula has been properly imported.  
  • Imported formulas may be labeled as "Stage 1" (for the first six months after birth, but generally can be used throughout the first year), and "Stage 2" (just for babies who are over 6 months of age).  
  • The American Academy of Pediatrics also has helpful guidance on using imported formula

Download social media graphics to help families safely use formula imported from other countries.
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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