As the infant formula shortage in the U.S. continues into the summer, many parents are struggling to find their baby’s formula.
And while many parents are sourcing formula through Facebook parenting groups, help from their pediatrician, or savvy online shopping, others have turned to making their own homemade infant formula from recipes found online.
This dangerous practice puts babies at risk for nutrient imbalances, infections, and digestive problems. Read on to learn the dangers of homemade infant formula and safer options to feed your baby during the formula shortage.
Homemade Formula May Lead to Nutrient Imbalances
The U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) warns that homemade infant formulas are not evaluated by the FDA and are not nutritionally complete, as they may lack critical nutrients for a baby’s growth and development. There are even reports of some babies hospitalized with hypocalcemia (too little calcium).
According to the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, homemade infant formula may lack iron (which can lead to anemia), Vitamin D (which can lead to rickets – softening and weakening of bones), and Vitamin C (which, if severe, can lead to scurvy). Homemade infant formula recipes may also provide too much of other nutrients, like Vitamin A or sodium (salt), which can damage a baby’s liver and kidneys.
Modern advances in medicine and technology means that commercially available infant formula is designed to meet a baby’s unique nutritional needs. The FDA has strict guidelines that formula manufacturers must meet to ensure their product is safe for babies.
Food Safety Concerns
Making your own infant formula at home is risky. Infant formula manufacturers have rules and procedures in place to reduce the risk of contamination with harmful bacteria and viruses. The production, storage, and transportation of infant formula is highly regulated by the FDA.
With homemade infant formula, there is risk of contamination, and, if using raw or unpasteurized milk, they may contain E. Coli or Salmonella, which can cause infection.
Digestive Problems
Many homemade infant formula recipes include animal milk like cow’s or goat’s milk, or plant-based milk like soy or almond milk. But a baby’s digestive system is not fully mature and may not be able to properly digest these ingredients. The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics warns that these can cause an upset stomach, bleeding in the digestive tract, and changes in your baby’s pooping patterns.
Safer Options
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that, if you are unable to find or have trouble afford your baby’s infant formula, you should seek support from an accredited human milk bank, your local office for the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC), and see if you qualify for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) or your state’s Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program.
Homemade infant formula is not a safe option for feeding your baby. Speak with your pediatrician about safe ways to feed your baby during the infant formula shortage. Some common questions for pediatricians can be found here.