Hope you had a nice Thanksgiving and are gearing up for the holidays. This week we’re talking once again about feeding our youngest family members– our babies! Andrea Ippolito, the CEO and Founder of SimpliFed, which provides virtual breastfeeding and baby feeding support to new parents. 

ASK AN EXPERT: What to know if you’re struggling to find formula

We talked to Andrea Ippolito, the CEO and Founder of SimpliFed.  

–

Let’s jump right back in. For parents who are making the decision now on whether to breastfeed, formula feed, or a combination of the two, what should they consider? What are some of the pros/cons? 

Breastfeeding and pumping are a no-days off, a relentless activity that is both wonderful and exhausting and has a huge impact on moms both physically and mentally. It’s on-demand, and if the mom reduces her participation, it affects her supply. 

Formula saved my daughter’s life and allowed her to grow to be a healthy toddler. Infant formula was a choice I made that I did not regret for one moment. With my second daughter, I received support covered by my health plan and because of that, I was able to use both options – formula and breastmilk – like most American families. Let’s support the mom’s choice and empower her to decide with her chosen medical professional what works best for her and her baby. 

What are you hearing from your community about the formula shortage? How big of an issue was it? Has it gotten any better? 

While the formula shortage is better, it still isn’t over. High out-of-stock rates continue in several states across the US. 

What needs to change long term so this doesn’t happen again? 

We need a more resilient baby feeding system in the US to support families…Because most families will either use all formula or in combination with breastfeeding, the Federal government must lean in and invest in this broken system. One factory shutdown should not mean we can no longer feed the most vulnerable members of our society.

There are only a handful of manufacturers that actually make baby formula, right? 

In American 2022, there are four FDA-registered formula manufacturers that currently make up 90% of formula in the US. The federal government needs to invest in the rapid development of more manufacturing facilities via public-private partnerships, perhaps with state infusion of capital as well, and they should start that process now. 

You mentioned there is perhaps ONE good thing that came from all this? 

The only silver lining is that the FDA has approved several high-quality, safe formulas like Kendamil from the UK which can now be purchased at places like Target. (You can see the full list of these formulas that you can purchase here.)

Any advice for parents who are dealing with the formula shortage right now? 

My biggest advice is if you can’t find your preferred formula, check out this list of formulas that are safe and high quality that the FDA has authorized to be sold in the US as a result of the formula shortage. They are available at places like Target and on Amazon, but make sure they mention that they have been FDA authorized if you purchase them on Amazon.