“Unprecedented times,” is how Michelle Ross, program manager of the Clinical Nutrition and Lactation Program at Nationwide Children’s Hospital describes the nationwide shortage of infant formula.
“We know that families are struggling day to day to find formulas for their babies,” said Ross.
Ross explains she and her team have monitored the dwindling shelves of infant formula at local stores where various brands of formula should be available. She said formula of every type has been affected by the shortage.
“It includes milk-based, soy-based, specialty formulas,” said Ross. “The entire market has been impacted. We’re getting calls from parents on a daily basis with concerns of not being able to find the regular formula they feed their child.”
Ross advises parents to maintain the use of FDA-approved formula, although they may have to select a different brand than they normally choose.
“It's recommended to have at least a week to two weeks on hand just to make sure that you can make it through,” said Ross. “But also making sure that we're not hoarding any formula and keeping an oversupply because that only takes it away from the other child that needs it as well."
Ross said her program will continue to encourage new moms to breastfeed as much as possible. However, there are other sources of breast milk.
“Milk banks are definitely an option for certain individuals, and I would highly recommend working with your pediatrician and your dietician to further discuss that option,” said Ross.
Ohio Health Mothers’ Milk Bank is one source for breast milk that Ross said her program utilizes. Anyone interested in donating can call (614) 566-0630.
