America has been undergoing a baby formula shortage and there appears to be no solution in sight.
On April 24th the baby formula was out of stock was 40% across the U.S.
Due to the inflation, supply chain shortages, and product recalls the category is facing vitality and is amongst the most affected products in the market. It is also clear that the problem is going to slow down any time soon.
Michigan production shutdown
After the Michigan production facility was shut down this year, there have been several rises in shortages. Brian Dittmeier, the Senior Director of public policy at the National WIC Association- an advocacy group for women, infants, and children, shared in a statement, “Unlike other food recalls, shortages in the infant formula supply affect a major — or even exclusive — source of nutrition for babies. Inadequate nutrition could have long-term health implications for babies.”
States with the worst shortages
Across the U.S. there are around 26 states that have out-of-stock rates of 40-50% in the baby formula category. These states include Missouri, Texas, Iowa, Tennessee, North Dakota, and South Dakota. Whereas, in some of the metro states the rates have reached 57%. Memphis and Nashville are at 52% while Houston and Des Moines are at 50% shortage of supplies.
As a measure, the stores are limiting the customers to only 3 products of baby formula per purchase. Also, the retail giant Target has inflicted a limitation on online ordering for baby formula but it is not applied to in-person stores.