Tracy J. Chappelle 
The nationwide shortage of infant formula is affecting New Jersey mothers despite federal action to find a solution.
President Joe Biden invoked the Defense Production Act to boost supply, while the House passed a bill to help low-income families buy infant formula. But that doesn’t help the parents who are stuck now.
“Very worried,” Kabulo Mwilambwe told News 12. “We looked at local ShopRite, couldn’t find any.”
Mwilambe is just one of many mothers coping with the agonizing feeling of scarcity.
“It’s surprising that this happens, especially when it comes to babies,” she added. “You want to make sure they are well fed.”
Pediatrician Dr Sheeba Ben of the Riverside Medical Group says she has received calls from parents worried about the most common questions about the brand change. Ben told News 12 that switching brands is OK and even generic brands will work if the child is not on a specialist formula.
But Ben says mothers who make their own formula at home or dilute the formula they already have to make it go further are problematic.
“You might get nutritional deficiencies if you try to make your own formula at home,” Ben said. have enough calories.”
Mothers looking for formula milk can contact their pediatrician. Many doctor’s offices have samples of different formulas on hand and can give them to those who need them. Ben also suggests checking small stores or pharmacies.
Some pediatricians say it’s okay to let babies about 1 year old drink cow’s milk in an emergency.
