Here at Weld County WIC, we want to do everything we can to help you continue to utilize your WIC benefits during this time of uncertainty.
This post will address some frequently asked questions (FAQS) regarding formula concerns and infant feeding.
What should I do if I can’t find formula at the grocery store?
Many grocery stores have decreased their hours to allow more time for restocking products.
- Consider calling your WIC approved grocery stores ahead of time to see if they have the formula you need in stock
- If not, ask them when they will be restocking
- If they do have it in stock, ask if customer service can hold formula for you while you are on your way to pick it up
- Make sure to tell them you are a WIC participant and how many cans of formula you need.
- Remember to verify the store you are shopping at is a WIC approved grocery store
- Consider asking family members to check other WIC approved grocery stores that may be closer to them, always call first if able and verify store hours
If you are breastfeeding and formula feeding, remember breast milk is free and full of amazing benefits for your baby’s immune system. Consider breastfeeding more during this time if you are able.
If you are able to purchase formula on your own, consider purchasing a few cans of store brand formula, until your WIC specific brand is restocked.
*Do not do this if your child has a medical condition requiring specialty formula.
**Call us at WIC if you have questions about other formula brands (970) 395-1113
Should I dilute the formula I have to make it last longer?
No. According to The American Academy of Pediatrics, watering down formula is dangerous!
- Babies do not need water added to formula and doing so can cause water intoxication.
- This can cause electrolyte imbalances, which can, in some cases lead to seizures.
- Adding water to the formula also decreases the nutrients and calories the infant receives at each feeding.
- This can slow proper growth and development.
*Always mix formula according to the instructions on the container.
Can I make my own homemade baby formula?
No. According to The American Academy of Pediatrics, breast milk or iron-fortified formula, should be an infant’s only milk source for the first 12 months of life.
- Iron-fortified infant formulas are FDA approved and contain the perfect balance of protein, iron, and vitamins/minerals that babies need during the 1st year of life.
- Homemade formulas are typically made with ingredients that are not easily digested by and not recommended for infants
- These formulas do NOT contain the perfect balance of nutrients that babies need in the 1st year of life.
- Feeding an infant homemade formula, even for a short period of time, can put them at risk for illness.
Where can I go for help if I can’t find any formula anywhere?
*1st Call WIC- We want to know if you cannot find formula for your child, please call us at our main office. (970)-395-1113
We are hoping that the situation at grocery stores is improving each day and you are able to find the formula you need however these other organizations may be able to help your family as well.
Feeding America is a nonprofit network of 200 food banks. Many provide free baby food, infant formula, diapers and other supplies.
https://www.feedingamerica.org/find-your-local-foodbank
Dial 2-1-1 to be connected to a community resource specialist who can help you find local resources. The number can be dialed from almost anywhere in the U.S.
http://www.211.org/services/food
Hunger Free Colorado– Food Resource Hotline (855-855-4626), M – F (8 am – 4:30 pm). Mission to help Coloradans find food and nutrition resources in their communities, has bilingual assistance for families, and can help with applications for SNAP.
https://www.hungerfreecolorado.org/covid-19/
Formula Feeding References:
https://wicworks.fns.usda.gov/wicworks/Topics/FG/Chapter4_InfantFormulaFeeding.pdf
https://www.aappublications.org/news/2019/02/25/homemadeformulapp022519