In the face of the ongoing nationwide shortage of baby formula, the Florida Association of Healthy Start Coalitions and its members are sharing guidance and resources to families struggling to keep their babies healthy. Coalitions are actively working with local and state partners to identify options for parents.

 

Recent reports indicate that 43% of the nation’s baby formula products are currently out-of-stock. The Healthy Start Coalitions recommend breastfeeding as the best source of nutrition for babies, although they recognize that this is not an option for some families. Families should not water down formula mix, make homemade formula, or use animal milk or any milk alternative, as these can lack a proper nutritional balance and pose a risk to young children. The Healthy Start Coalitions are recommending that families who need to find formula look into the availability at smaller stores and pharmacies or try purchasing formula from reputable online sources. Families should check with their pediatrician about changing formula, or for any advice needed.

 

We share the public’s concerns about the current nationwide shortage of baby formula, and are actively working with our various partners to help identify options for affected families. The Healthy Start Coalitions believe breastfeeding is the best source of nutrition for babies, but recognize that it may not be an option for some families for a variety of reasons. For those seeking formula, we recommend checking with smaller stores and pharmacies, or trying to purchase formula from reputable sources online. Families should not water down formula mix, make homemade formula, or use animal milk or any milk alternative.

If families have questions about their baby’s health, Healthy Start recommends families reach out to their pediatrician.

Families looking for additional information about best practices can find dependable, verified information from the American Academy of Pediatrics at HealthyChildren.org.

 

 

Locally, the Healthy Start Coalition of Okaloosa and Walton Counties has identified the following resources for families:

 

Local WIC Offices:

Fort Walton Beach………. (850)833-9254

Crestview……………………. (850)689-7858

DeFuniak Springs………… (850)892-8020