Nick McWilliams reporting – Amid nationwide shortages of infant formula, local specialists are offering tips and information.
Many name-brand and commonly used formulas are missing from shelves, driven by supply chain issues, a massive recall from prominent producer Abbott Laboratories, and a factory shutdown have led to scarcity.
Director for Tuscarawas County WIC Valerie Wilson says that a statewide meeting was held Monday, discussing the matter and the recently passed House of Representatives bill.
“Unfortunately, they are still waiting on guidance from the United States Department of Agriculture. They’re the ones who fund the WIC program. We’re still waiting on updates from them regarding the House bill that was introduced and passed last week.”
The bill is set to appropriate $28 million to the USDA to assist with the shortage, which is intended to increase production and look into formula purchases from abroad.
Wilson says that around 300 infants from the county are under the WIC umbrella for formula, but she says that some might be branching out to breastfeeding during the shortage, and asks families to avoid trying to stretch supplies too thin.
“We are really encouraging individuals to not dilute formula. Make the formula according to the directions, and avoid making homemade formula. Most likely, in the stores, there will most likely be an option for formula that is similar to what you’re currently giving your baby, except it’s made by a different company.”
Additionally, WIC will also provide information about substitute formulas, along with healthcare providers.
Information about a transition to breastfeeding is also available by contacting the local WIC department online at www.tchdnow.org.
Copyright WTUZ Radio Inc., 2022