JACKSON, Wyo. — A national shortage of baby formula has left parents across the U.S. scrambling. In Jackson, shelves are thinning with supply.
Industry executives say the constraints began last year as the COVID-19 pandemic led to disruptions in ingredients, labor and transportation. Supplies were further squeezed by parents stockpiling during lockdowns. Then in February, Abbott, who supplies many major baby formula brands, recalled several of its brands and shut down its Sturgis, Michigan, factory when federal officials concluded four babies suffered bacterial infections after consuming formula from the facility.
Baby formula is particularly vulnerable to disruptions because just a handful of companies account for almost the entire U.S. supply.
According to the Associated Press, months of spot shortages at pharmacies and supermarkets have been exacerbated by the recall, leaving shelves empty. Retailers including CVS, Target and Walgreens have begun limiting purchases. Nationwide about 40% of large retail stores are out of stock, according to Datasembly, an analytics firm that collects data from 11,000 locations.
The FDA said it’s working with U.S. manufacturers to increase output and streamline paperwork to allow more imports. It is also waiving enforcement of minor product labeling issues. The FDA also is letting Abbott release some specialty formulas to physicians and hospitals.
A tricky aspect of the formula shortage is that despite parents’ efforts to stock up on supply, formula does have an expiration date.
According to the CDC, once opened, formula generally lasts for a month. The prepared formula at room temperature lasts for only two hours, while the prepared formula that is refrigerated is good for up to a day.
Local Supply and Resources
At most grocery stores in Jackson, the supply of baby formula isn’t completely out, but it is certainly scarce.
For parents looking elsewhere or for a specific formula, online stores like Walmart and Amazon do have some stock.
Local pediatrician offices usually have a supply as well.
Carolyn Warziniack, executive director at Turning Point, a local pregnancy resource center, said their doors are open for parents who may need supply during the formula shortage.
“If they need resources, our doors are open,” said Warziniack.
Women, Infants and Children Program (WIC) — a federal program for mothers and children similar to food stamps — is allowing substitutions because the recall wiped out many brands covered by the program. Learn more about WIC here.
