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Infant formula shortage advice from SMDHU

June 16, 2022   ·   0 Comments

The availability of some hypoallergenic infant formulas is currently limited in Canada due a supply issue originating in the United States, according to the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit.

Regular infant formulas are not being impacted by this shortage.

Health Canada is working on a strategy to increase the availability of products.

If you use hypoallergenic or amino acid-based infant formula and are unable to find it, you should contact your healthcare provider for information about alternative feeding solutions.

The SMDHU is offering advice to those parents who may be affected by this shortage.

Homemade formulas are not recommended.

Homemade formulas may not provide the proper balance of nutrients that an infant needs. They may also contain ingredients or allergens or be prepared in a manner that can result in contamination by harmful bacteria that cause serious illness.

Informal breastmilk sharing may have risks; Infants who require hypoallergenic formulas my not be able to tolerate breastmilk. Sharing unprocessed breastmilk obtained from a private source is not recommended and has risks which can cause your baby to become ill.

Lactation may be an option for some families: Infants who require hypoallergenic formulas may not be able to tolerate breastmilk and parents should consult with their healthcare provider about whether this is an option.

This will require consultation with a nutritionist and/or a registered dietitian.

If you have questions about the hypoallergenic infant formula shortage and what you can do, you should consult with your healthcare provider, or call Health Connection to speak with a public health nurse at 1-877-721-7520.

By Brian Lockhart

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