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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 13, 2022
MEDIA CONTACT
Jeff Powell, (402) 471-6223, jeff.powell@nebraska.gov
Safety Notifications and Tips for Parents and Caregivers During Nationwide Baby Formula Shortage
Lincoln, Neb. – The Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) is urging all parents and caregivers to contact their pediatrician or other healthcare provider during the nationwide baby formula shortage before pursuing alternatives.
Do not put more water in baby formula.
- While it may be tempting to water down formula to stretch it out, this is not safe. Always follow the label instructions or those given to you by your pediatrician. Watering down formula is dangerous and can cause nutritional imbalances in infants and could lead to serious health problems. Always mix formula as directed by the manufacturer or pediatrician.
DHHS strongly advises against making your own baby formula.
- The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) strongly advises against homemade formulas. Although recipes for homemade formulas circulating on the internet may seem healthy or less expensive, there is a good possibility that they are not safe and do not meet an infant’s nutritional needs. Infant deaths have been reported from the use of some homemade formulas.
For other Frequently Asked Questions, please visit the following link provided by the AAP.
DHHS is also urging all Nebraskans to check their pantry to see if they have unexpired formulas in their household that they no longer need and consider donating it to their local food bank
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.
Also, all baby formula manufacturers have formula locater tools on their websites. These websites are not typically recommended since accuracy varies. It is recommended to call the individual stores listed on the formula locator first before going.
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