The nationwide baby formula shortage impacted many families during the spring and summer. Unfortunately, some families in Arkansas still struggle to find the formula their babies need heading into the Christmas season.
First-time mom Baley Shell said it is definitely a struggle and very nerve-wracking. Shell added that finding a formula for her newborn has been a challenge; the only one she can find in stores now is Gerber.
Shell said that she usually feeds her baby Enfamil Gentlease, but that product has become hard to come by. She explained that she could only get it on Walmart's website. Usually, the formula is delivered the same day, but it is missing from their shelves.
Nutramigen is hard to find in stores
Fellow mother Abbey Johnston also knows that struggle and now does her best to help others with that same predicament. Johnston said they have some formula leftover from when they were in a bind, trying to find a formula. She said that she saw a girl posting the other day needing it, so they were able to give back to her for what people had done to them.
Johnston told THV11 there were not many formula options for her young daughter, who has allergies. She has relied on hypoallergenic formula, Nutramigen, in the past, but other parents are searching for it as well. Johnston said it is not fun when you can't find a formula for your baby.
Sondra Rodocker, a lactation consultant, said she noticed empty formula shelves when shopping. She added that it is common for stores to put only some of their supply out, especially with Nutramigen. Rodocker noted that there are a lot of theft issues with Nutramigen because it is expensive, but their baby needs it.
Parents should try other formula brands
She recommended trying the off-brand to some parents if they can't find their usual name-brand formula for their babies. She said many store name brands are just as good as the name brands. She noted that as long as it says infant formula and has been through FDA testing, it is where it should be.
She also advised parents to do their research and talk to a pediatrician if they are looking to make a switch. Rodocker said it is just disheartening knowing there is a shortage again because not many parents have support on their lactation journey.
She said some mothers must return to work quickly, so they do their best. Rodocker said they try to fit in and help them as they can.
