Baby Formula Resources

In February, Abbott, the largest producer of baby formula in the U.S., and the maker of Similac, was ordered by the FDA to shut down their production facility which produces Similac, EleCare and several other leading powdered baby formulas. Cronobacter bacteria had been found in infants who consumed formulas produced at the plant. Two infants became sick, and two died.

Three and a half months later, the Sturgis, Michigan facility is still silent, with no infant formula rolling off the production line.

This has drastically reduced the availability of formula across the U.S., and left parents scrambling to feed their newborns.

In a statement last week, Abbott said it can resume production within two weeks if the FDA signs off. Once the facility reopens, it will take six to eight weeks before the product is available on shelves.

Unfortunately, other formula makers (Gerber, Perrigo and Mead Johnson) have not been able to make up for the loss of Abbott products.

Manufacturers Hotlines:

Gerber’s MyGerber Baby Expert: reach a certified nutrition or lactation consultant by phone, text, Facebook Messenger, web chat, or video call who can help you identify a similar formula that may be more readily available.

Abbott Consumer hotline: call 1-800-986-8540. Abbott’s urgent product request line. Ask your OBGYN or your infant’s pediatrician to submit an urgent product request.

Reckitt’s (makers of Enfamil) Customer Service line: 1-800-BABY-123 (1-800-222-9123)

Community Resources:

United Way’s 2-1-1 Hotline: Dial 2-1-1 to be connected to a community resource specialist affiliated with United Way who may be able to help you identify food pantries and other charitable sources of local infant formula and baby food.

Feeding America: Call your local food bank to ask if they have infant formula and other supplies in stock.