Edward-Elmhurst Health: What to do during baby formula shortage

Feeding infants has gotten more complicated lately.

Abbott Nutrition recently recalled Similac, Alimentum and EleCare powdered formulas after several babies were sickened by bacterial infections after ingesting them, and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is investigating.

The FDA is investigating complaints of cronobacter and salmonella infections in infants who consumed powdered infant formula produced at Abbott Nutrition’s Sturgis, Michigan facility.

“Infants have a high risk of complications from infections with cronobacter and salmonella,” says Victoria Uribe, M.D., pediatrician with Elmhurst Clinic. “Parents should call their pediatrician right away if their baby exhibits symptoms of these infections.”

Symptoms of a cronobacter or salmonella infection, include:

• Poor feeding
• Irritability
• Temperature changes
• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
• Grunting breaths
• Abnormal movements
• Lethargy
• Rash
• Blood in the urine or stool

In the meantime, between supply chain delays and the recall, infant formula has been more difficult to find.

There are options:

• Check with the baby’s pediatrician. Pediatricians and OB/GYNs often have samples of formula in their offices. They can also suggest substitutions or potential new sources.
• It’s OK to switch brands. Parents should not switch types of formula, like swapping cow’s milk protein-based formula for soy.
• Shop around. Smaller stores may have formula in stock. Infant formula can also be purchased directly from the manufacturer. The Infant Nutritional Council of America warns against buying infant formula from individuals, such as at flea markets, on e-commerce websites, or on internet auction sites. The products may have been improperly stored or shipped, which can affect the quality of the formula. Always check containers for punctures, dents or evidence of potential tampering, and check the use-by date on each container before buying and/or using.
• Don’t try to dilute formula to make it last longer. Parents should not try to make their own formula, either. Straying from the recommended usage could cause health problems for your baby.

Get more information at EEHealth.org/services/children.