It can be challenging to find baby formula in stores right now, and you may be tempted to add water to your baby’s formula or use a recipe you found online to make your own. DO NOT DO THIS! The first year of life is a key time for your baby’s brain and body to grow. It’s important for your baby’s health to stick with products that meet federal standards, prepared according to directions on the label.
Diluting formula (adding water to make it last longer) can lead to water poisoning.
Homemade formula recipes may not have the right amounts of essential nutrients for your baby.
If your baby has consumed diluted or homemade formula, contact your healthcare provider immediately.
If you are having a hard time finding or paying for formula, these programs may be able to help you!
🍼 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. Learn how to apply here.
🍼 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 here.
🍼 Feeding America is a nonprofit network of 200 food banks. Many provide free baby food, infant formula, diapers and other supplies. Here is a link to the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma.
🍼 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
This article found on HealthyChildren.org includes more formula-feeding tips from the American Academy of Pediatrics and answers some common questions parents have about baby formula. https://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/baby/formula-feeding/Pages/Is-Homemade-Baby-Formula-Safe.aspx
