The Florida Department of Health has compiled a list of helpful tips and resources to assist your FAMILY during the current formula shortage.
• Explore alternative retail outlets for formula needs. For more information, visit HHS.gov.
• Choose a formula that is safe. For more information on choosing a formula that is safe, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) pages on the topic.
• Do not make homemade formula. See the FDA’s page for more information.
• Do not purchase counterfeit formula. Counterfeit formula labels may misrepresent the quality or identity of a formula. Visit the FDA’s page for more information.
• Do not feed your baby or toddler recalled powder formula. Check to see if you have recalled formula by visiting Abbott's website or calling 1-800-986-8540.
• Do not throw away recalled formula. Return it to the store or call Abbott at 1-800-986-8540.
How to safely use formula:
• Use water from a safe source to mix your infant formula. If you are not sure if your tap water is safe to use for preparing infant formula, contact your local health department.
• Do not water down formula. Use the amount of water listed on the instructions of the infant formula container. Always measure the water first and then add the powder.
• Too much water may not meet the nutritional needs of your baby.
• Too little water may cause your baby to become dehydrated.
Contact your child's health care provider if:
• You notice signs of illness, including but not limited to fever, poor feeding, crying, and/or very low energy.
• Your regular formula is not available, and you need recommendations on other ways to feed your baby or toddler.
Information for families who use medical specialty formula:
• Parents and guardians of infants in need of medical infant formula should contact their health care provider to determine the best course of action.
The Florida Department of Health has compiled a list of helpful tips and resources to support the families PROVIDERS serve during the current formula shortage.
Remind clients:
• Encourage clients to explore alternative retail outlets for their formula needs. For more information, visit HHS.gov.
• Choose a formula that is safe. For more information on choosing a formula that’s safe, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) pages on the topic.
• Do not make homemade formula. See the FDA’s page for more information.
• Do not purchase counterfeit formula. Counterfeit formula labels may misrepresent the quality or identity of a formula. Visit the FDA’s page for more information.
• Do not feed your baby or toddler recalled powder formula. Check to see if you have recalled formula by visiting Abbott's website or calling 1-800-986-8540.
• Do not throw away recalled formula. Return it to the store or call Abbott at 1-800-986-8540.
Manufacturer Resources:
• Abbott:
- Store Locator: https://www.similac.com/where-to-buy-similac.html
- Consumer Hotline: 1-800-986-8540
- Customer Service: 1-800-227-5767, Monday through Friday, 8:30 am to 5:00 pm EST
- A physician can submit an urgent product request by completing and submitting this form.
• Gerber:
- Store Locator: https://medical.gerber.com/storelocator/
- MyGerber Baby Expert (www.gerber.com/mygerber-baby-expert) can connect families with a certified nutrition or lactation consultant by phone, text, Facebook Messenger, web chat, or video call, who can help identify a similar formula that may be more readily available.
• Mead Johnson:
- Store Locator: https://www.enfamil.com/store-locator/
- Costumer Service Line: 1-800 BABY-123 (222-9123)
Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) Program Waivers:
Florida’s WIC Program has obtained waivers that allow WIC participants to:
• Exchange recalled formula at the store.
• Obtain non-contract brand formula without medical documentation for certain formulas.
• Obtain formula in varying container sizes and forms (i.e., powder, liquid, etc.).
Florida Resources:
• Florida’s Family Health Line provides local referral services statewide. They can be reached by calling 1-800-451-2229.
• You may be eligible for WIC services through the Florida Department of Health. For more information on this resource, visit https://www.signupwic.com/.
• Contact your local food bank.
• Visit the Mothers' Milk Bank of Florida (https://milkbankofflorida.org/)
• Local hospitals may provide education, support, and resources to assist families.