— Recommendations are independently chosen by Reviewed’s editors. Purchases you make through our links may earn us a commission.
As if having a newborn during …
— Recommendations are independently chosen by Reviewed’s editors. Purchases you make through our links may earn us a commission. As if having a newborn during a pandemic isn’t hard enough ongoing formula shortages have thrust new parents into a state of panic. Get deals and shopping advice delivered straight to your phone. Sign up for text message alerts from the experts at Reviewed. The reason for the baby formula shortage is unclear. Chains like Walmart and CVS blame supply issues, while manufacturers like Gerber, Enfamil and Similac say retailers aren’t getting their products into stores once it is delivered. Not surprisingly, bare shelves at stores across the U.S. are causing parents of infants to worry. If you find yourself looking at low levels of baby formula at home, we are here to tell you there is no need to stress. There are many options and smart steps you can take to keep your baby healthy and fed. ►Baby formula shortage worsens: About 40% of popular brands sold out across US A bare grocery store shelf may cause a sense of panic, but know that your local grocery isn’t the only place to buy or find infant formula. You may be surprised to find a better supply at convenience store chains, local pharmacies and baby specialty stores in your area. Manufacturer websites often have information on where to find stock, so you can usually even check before you make the drive. If all else fails, you can also order infant formula directly from the manufacturer. Most manufacturers seem to have full stock and can even offer discounts on subscription orders, to ensure you never run out. According to Adam Barsella, a pediatrician at Northwestern Medicine Central DuPage Hospital in Winfield, Illinois, your own pediatrician will likely have a host of solutions for you, should you be unable to find your preferred brand of baby formula. “Your pediatrician should be able to triage and troubleshoot for you,” he says. If your baby requires a specialized formula, your pediatrician can call in for medical requests to get them exactly what they need. Barsella also says that most pediatricians’ offices can help in the event of an emergency.
