Utah Department of Health gives update on formula shortage
May 26, 2022, 12:29 PM
The Utah Department of Health gave an update on Thursday on availability of formula in the state. Photo credit: Graydon Johns.
SALT LAKE CITY — On Thursday, the Utah Department of Health released updates on the availability of baby formula in the state.
According to the UDOH, pre-mixed formulas continue to be delivered to Utah.
Where to look:
For the first time since before the recall, a limited supply of Similac Sensitive powdered cans with the orange lids, are stocked.
The Walmart in Ephraim has some Similac Advance on store shelves.
The UDOH said to expect inventory to differ in each county and per vendors like Walmart, Smith’s, and Associated Food Stores.
In Cache County, Smith’s stores have the best inventory, while Walmart is the leader in Salt Lake County.
Associated Foods is still receiving very little product and have extremely low inventory. Resolving this issue was noted as UDOH’s highest priority.
The Utah WIC team has:
• Expanded the list of authorized formulas
• Requested product be sent between stores
• Spoken directly with representatives of Gerber and Mead Johnson and requested more inventory
“It is still going to be some time before supplies are normal again, but we are hopeful we will get there. The lack of specialty formulas still remains one of our biggest problems,” read a statement from UDOH.
Answering parent questions:
How long will it take a baby to get used to a new formula?
According to UDOH, most babies change formulas without any major problems but noted in may take 3 to 5 days to get used to a new formula.
Should parents be worried if a baby has side effects after changing formulas?
The UDOH said, not usually. A baby may be more fussy or gassy than normal and parents may also see changes in a baby’s poop as their body adjusts. A baby may also spit up more.
Can parents give a baby water, juice, or tea?
The UDOH answered, no. It’s not safe to give babies younger than 6 months old any of these drinks. They do not provide the nutrients needed and can cause life-threatening health problems.
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services announced the creation of a network to help parents find infant formula during the shortage. Visit hhs.gov/formula to find out more.
