Missouri health officials urging caution for nationwide infant formula shortage

State health officials are urging Missourians to refrain from hoarding infant formula, as a nationwide shortage impacts parents and caregivers.

State Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) acting director Paula Nickelson says the formula shortage began as a result of the COVID pandemic and has also been impacted by recent recalls.

“The combined shortage and product recall have created anxiety among infant parents and caregivers. What often happens in these situations is that parents find alternative methods for feeding, and for infants, this could be dangerous and should be done in consultation with the child’s health care provider,” Nickelson says, in a written statement. “We understand that manufacturers are doing everything they can to increase availability of formula, and they’re working closely with the FDA to ensure these products return to shelves to meet the current demand.”

Director Nickelson recommends feeding your baby over six months old more baby food and less formula as well. She also urges you to not hoard formula, and to only keep one month’s supply at the most.