Keeping Your Baby Healthy and Fed During the Formula Shortage

Due to the formula shortage, the NYS WIC formulary has alternative options for certain formulas. Depending on the formula in your benefits, you may be able to temporarily purchase a combination of formula brands and alternate container sizes. If you cannot find your assigned formula in the stores, refer to the Resource Links in the WIC2Go app to assist you with finding a temporarily allowable substitution. Under ‘Shopping with Your WIC Card’ click on either Temporary Formula Shopping Guide or NYS WIC Approved Formulas. Please note, that not all formulas have available substitutions at this time. NYS WIC will continue to add alternative options to these documents as they become available. Participants may use WIC2Go to scan items at the store.

With more than 40% of baby formulas out-of-stock across the United States, many parents are worried about feeding their babies. Below are a few expert tips on how to navigate the current baby formula shortage and make sure your baby is healthy and fed.

• If you cannot find the baby formula you usually buy, talk to your pediatrician about switching brands. It is safe for most healthy babies to switch to any FDA-approved baby formula
• Many grocery stories are out-of-stock of formula, but try shopping at other stores, such as convenience stores, bodegas, local pharmacies, or baby specialty stores
• Try looking for formula online using the Instacart app or visiting the websites of big-box stores such as Costco, Wegmans, or Walmart
• If you are running low on formula, do not dilute it with water. Babies need a certain amount of nutrients, and diluting formula could lead to serious brain health issues for your baby
• Do not make your own baby formula. It is very hard for parents to make it with the right amount of protein and minerals that your baby needs
• If you can breastfeed, give it a try. You can also find a safe, local breastmilk bank to purchase breastmilk through the Human Milk Banking Association of North America
• Talk to your pediatrician about introducing some solid foods to your baby’s diet if your baby is over six months of age. Some good solids to start with include fortified cereal and mashed bananas or avocado
• Avoid baby formula substitutes, including cow’s milk, unless your child is over one year old