Infant Formula Safety Resources

Updated August 23, 2022: Academy members, registered dietitian nutritionists (RDNs), nutrition and dietetics technicians, registered (NDTRs) recognize the vital role of good nutrition in the growth and development of infants, children and adolescents. Consult an RDN for more information on infant feeding and overall well-being and health of children.

The Academy is working with the White House, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services (HHS) on an information campaign to promote infant formula safety to consumers as the U.S. imports infant formula to alleviate domestic formula shortages. For the most timely, accurate information on domestic supplies as well as important brands, please visit:

• White House: Addressing the Infant Formula Shortage
• HHS: Information for Families During the Formula Shortage
• USDA: USDA Extends Infant Formula Waivers, Supports WIC State Agencies
• FDA: Enforcement Discretion to Manufacturers to Increase Infant Formula Supplies and Tips for Preparing Imported Infant Formula

Additional Resources for Consumers:

For families receiving formula from WIC (the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children), you may need to contact other WIC accepting stores or pharmacies in your area if your usual location is unable to provide formula at this time. By downloading the WIC Shopper App, caregivers are able to search for other stores accepting WIC. For additional information about the WIC formula recall waiver, please visit www.fns.usda.gov/ofs/infant-formula-safety

1. Wash your hands thoroughly before preparing your child's formula
2. Ensure appropriate cleaning, sanitizing, and storage of bottles
3. Use liquid formula when possible
4. Prepare and store powdered infant formula safely

Please refer to the CDC recommendations for more in-depth guidance on formula preparation and storage.

Articles on eatright.org:

• Formula Basics for Healthy Babies
• Do's and Don'ts During a Formula Shortage
• Infant Formula Safety 101
• Health Risks of Homemade Infant Formula

If You Cannot Afford Formula:

• Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC): Mothers who qualify based on income can enroll in WIC to receive vouchers for formula. Visit WIC's website for information about enrolling.
• Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP): You can use your SNAP Electronic Benefits Transfer card (formerly called food stamps) to buy formula. If you are enrolled in WIC, you also might qualify for SNAP.
• Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF): This program offers temporary cash assistance to qualified families. Locate your state TANF program.
• Feeding America is a nonprofit network of 200 food banks. Many provide free baby food, infant formula, diapers and other supplies. Visit Feeding America's website to search for local foodbanks.
• Dial 2-1-1 to be connected to a community resource specialist who can help you find local resources. The number can be dialed from almost anywhere in the U.S. You also can get help online by visiting the 211 website.