If you typically feed your infant name-brand formula, such as the Similac options impacted by the recall, consider checking out the generic version, says Robert Dracker, M.D., founder and medical director of Summerwood Pediatrics in Syracuse, New York and a Forbes Health Advisory Board member. “In most cases, wholesale store brands, such as Walmart, BJ’s and Costco, are acceptable since they are usually relabeled formulas made by FDA-approved formula manufacturers,” he explains. Indeed, all infant formulas—name brand or not—must meet the same FDA requirements and contain certain key nutrients before being sold in stores in the U.S.
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It’s also worth reaching out to your child’s pediatrician if you haven’t already. “Doctors can contact formula representatives who can assist them in obtaining formula for children, especially those who require specialty formulas,” says Dr. Dracker. “I have had success doing this for some of my infants who need special formula types.” Above all else, stick with formulas that have FDA approval.
If you’re breastfeeding and considering making the switch to formula amid the shortage, Dr. Dracker advises banking any excess breastmilk and freezing it whenever possible, making sure it’s…
