packaging, labor shortages and a formula recall early this year.
“This is a shocking number that you don’t see for other categories,” Reich says.
RELATED: Abbott Recalls Three Formulas After 5 Infants Develop Bacterial Infections
Among the causes was a widespread recall in February of Abbott Nutrition powdered baby formula products amid reports of illnesses in babies. Last week, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration warned consumers not to use any of the recalled products manufactured at Abbott Nutrition’s Michigan facility because of unclean conditions.
“Inflation, supply chain shortages and product recalls have continued to bring volatility to the category, and continues to be one of the most affected products in the market,” Reich says.
Stores have been limiting sales of the products in response to the shortages. A Walgreens spokesperson says the chain limits customers to three infant and toddler formula products during each transaction, the same number cited by CVS Health. Target is limiting customers to four products, CBS News reports.
“Product supply challenges are currently impacting most of the retail industry,” a CVS Health spokesperson shares. The company is working with “national brand baby formula vendors to address this issue and we regret any inconvenience that our customers may be experiencing.”
Meanwhile, prices have risen by about 18% on the most popular products, according to CBS News.
The Infant Nutrition Council of America has asked parents to not stockpile products while encouraging them to keep a 10-day to two-week supply.
How to stretch your supply
Parents are having a hard time getting their hands on formula and when they do, it may not last long, which is a cause of concern for infants who need special formula. Premature babies, are struggling because the formula they need is in the lowest supply, according to pediatrician William Spohn.
This has caused parents to search for alternative ways to feed their child. However, Spohn says almond, oat, or cow milk are not suitable options for infants.
He says giving infants whole milk can cause them to have an inflammation of their bowel (called colitis), which leads to a