A government web page is now available with resources to help locate formula during the current infant formula shortage. The website, HHS.gov/formula, includes hotlines for Gerber, Abbott and Reckitts. It also has information about United Way’s 2-1-1 program, Feeding America and the Human Milk Banking Association of North America.
Many families are facing challenges obtaining formula. This includes families of who have babies, children or adults with a metabolic disease.
If you are unable to find formula, try these resources:
Manufacturer Hotlines
- Gerber’s MyGerber Baby Expert: Reach out to a certified nutrition or lactation consultant by phone, text, Facebook Messenger, web chat, or video call. They may be able to help you locate a similar formula that may be more readily available.
- Abbott’s Consumer Hotline: call 1-800-986-8540.
- Abbott’s urgent product request line.
- Reckitt’s Customer Service line: call 1-800 BABY-123 (222-9123).
Community Resources
- United Way’s 2-1-1: Connect with a resource specialist who may be able to help you identify food pantries or other charitable sources for local infant formula.
- Feeding America: Call your local food bank.
- Human Milk Banking Association of North America (HMBANA): Certain accredited milk banks are distributing donated breast milk to mothers in need. However, some may require a prescription. Find an HMBANA-accredited milk bank.
WIC-Eligible Families
- Contact your local WIC office to identify or obtain additional sources of infant formula nearby.
General Guidance
- Call your OBGYN or pediatrician to see if they have in-office samples or can suggest a similar formula.
- Do not water down formula, make formula at home, or use toddler formula to feed infant. Only discard formula that is expired or is part of the recall. Check your formula’s lot code to see whether or not it was affected by the recall.
- You can find more guidance from the American Academy of Pediatrics.