As the nationwide baby formula shortage continues, parents are being urged to not take matters into their own hands. That includes making your own formula or putting more water into baby formula.
“Adding more water not only decreases the calories and protein that you’re going to give your kiddo, they won’t get adequate minerals,” says Tanya Wagner, a pediatric dietician with Bryan Health.
She recommends checking smaller chain stores to see if they have formula and be open to store brand formulas. If you are still having issues finding formula you can contact your child’s healthcare provider. “Sometimes our formula reps are able to provide samples to the doctor’s offices and they may be able to give different options.”
Families that are participating in the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program (SNAP) for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) may call their local WIC offices with further questions or concerns.
Wagner says contacting formula manufacturers and medical supply companies directly is another option.