A lot of parenting is timeless, but baby supplies and tech just keep getting better
Whether you’re a brand new parent or a few years in, we’re constantly on the lookout for baby supplies to make everyday tasks easier. Anything that gives us time back for ourselves and allows us to be more present for our families is a win in our books, so we’ve brought you our list of some of the best tech for babies out there that does all that and more! This is the gear that you might not even know you needed, but these baby supplies and tech is about to change your life.
eufy S340 Smart Sock Bundle
eufy
Baby monitors have come a long way, and the Smart Sock Bundle from eufy proves it. You get alerts when your babe is awake or fussy both through your phone and through the included base. The Smart Sock keeps track of your baby's real-time sleep data, including heart rate, sleep status and movements, and provides daily sleep reports—all without having to pay a monthly fee. Plus, the 2K resolution camera allows you to check on your little one anytime. eufy S340 Smart Sock Bundle ($449.98)—Buy Here!
Baby Brezza Pro Advanced Formula Mixer
Baby Brezza
Imagine this: a fresh bottle of formula with no measuring, no mixing, no problem. Sound good? The Baby Brezza mixes formula and water with the tap of a button with fully customizable sizes from 2-10oz, three heat settings, and a water-only dispensing feature. It works with virtually all brands of baby formula and all bottle designs. Over 8,000 reviews rate the Baby Brezza 4.5 out of 5 stars. Baby Brezza Pro Advanced Formula Mixer ($177.06)—Buy Here!
Baby Brezza Smart Soothing Mat
Target
Designed by a maternity nurse and baby crying expert, the Baby Brezza Smart Soothing Mat is the only one of its kind that mimics the sounds and motions of the womb, which turns on your little one's self-soothing and sleep impulse. Use the free app to operate via Bluetooth and customize the Soothing Mat's settings. Plus, it's light and portable, so you'll never have to be without. Baby Brezza Smart Soothing Mat ($99.99) Buy Here!
This is a level of baby bathing we not-so-secretly would love for ourselves, too. The rotating shower arm plus soft-feel sling cradle your wee one and can be removed as they grow. The handheld shower head gives you full control and offers a massage to soothe and calm little ones. The First Years Rain Shower & Baby Spa Tub ($69.99) Buy Here!
Nanit Pro Complete Monitoring System
Nanit
The Nanit Pro Complete Monitoring System includes everything you could possibly need to monitor your infant's every move. Including the pro camera, wall mount, portable multi-stand, small sensor-free breathing band, and Smart Sheet to track growth! It also includes two-way audio, and the split-screen feature allows you to to see and control more than one camera simultaneously in-app. Nanit Pro Complete Monitoring System ($343.90) Buy Here!
TruBliss Evi Smart Bassinet
Target
This bassinet does it all. No, seriously. From ambient light, to sounds, to rocking, to even connecting to Alexa, Google Home, or the app, it does it all.TruBliss Evi Smart Bassinet ($399.99)—Buy Here!
Tiny Traveler Portable Video Car Baby Monitoring System
Tiny Traveler
We've bought more than one of those backseat mirrors and honestly, we just don't love them. This car baby monitoring system takes car safety to the next level. With up to 4 hours of battery life, night vision, and split-screen monitoring, you'll wonder how you lived without it. Tiny Traveler Portable Video Car Baby Monitoring System ($269.99)—Buy Here!
Smart Weigh Comfort Baby Scale
Smart Weigh
One of the most important indicators of baby's health is their weight, and this smart digital scale lets you stay on top of it! It's perfectly designed for your little one and offers a 44lb. capacity. Almost 3,000 Amazon reviews rate it 4.3 stars, so you'll feel good adding it to your baby supply list. Smart Weigh Comfort Baby Scale (34.99)—Buy Here!
BlueSmart mia2 Intelligent Baby Feeding Monitor
Target
You may have been keeping track of your little one's feedings using a notebook by the rocking chair, or trying to rely on your memory (hello, Mom Brain), but this Intelligent Baby Feeding Monitor takes all that off your plate. It automatically records feeding portions using its baby-safe silicon sleeve that fits on almost any regularly-shaped bottle and syncs to the BlueSmart Baby Tracker App. BlueSmart mia2 Intelligent Baby Feeding Monitor ($99.99)—Buy Here!
The noise detection on the Sense2Snooze Bassinet responds to baby's cries and adjusts soothing settings like motion and sound to gently encourage them back to sleep. It also includes dimmable lighting and built-in wheels so you can relax them in any room of the house. Graco Sense2Snooze Bassinet ($319.97)—Buy Here!
All the products listed are independently & personally selected by our shopping editors.
If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation. Prices and availability reflect the time of publication.
All the benefits of painter’s tape, the ultimate formula hack, and how to get away with overpacking
Traveling as a family is hard enough, but add a baby into the mix and your trip can go from fantastic to frightful in a heartbeat. Thankfully, parents from all over the world have gone before us and figured out everything from the best way to baby-proof a hotel room and how to get through TSA without breaking a sweat, to securing the coveted bassinet on a long-haul flight. These baby travel hacks from TikTok are bound to make your upcoming trip an actual vacation.
Once you’ve had a baby, reality sets in: babies have so.much.stuff. It’s one thing to keep a well-stocked home but traveling is another story. Travel light by getting creative with must-have baby necessities like this inflatable tub. When not in use, it can be folded down to easily fit in a suitcase, then simply blown up when it’s bath time.
You Can Bring Lots of Bottles and Snacks Through TSA
Getting through security can be intimidating enough, but toting a baby, bottles, and all the other infant sundries can make the process near nightmarish. The good news is that baby bottles and snacks are not subject to the 3 oz. liquid rule the rest of the population must abide by. So stock up that carry-on with all the supplies you need, and per TikToker Jai Lynn, you are able to request that no agent tampers with anything your little one might touch with their mouth.
I never pack for a trip traveling with children without packing painter’s tape! And I have never been on a trip where I packed the painter’s tape where I haven’t used the painter’s tape! It’s a miracle item that helps us sleep better, play better, and live safer while we’re on the go! What is your must-have family travel item?? . side note, if you’re wondering why you’ve seen this video before with someone else, it’s because she stole my content off of my Instagram and reposted it before I could get it posted on here. I promise this is the original video 😢 . . . . . #kelsewhatelse#familytravel#travelwithtoddler#painterstape#familytravelhack#travelhack#momhack#momtips
You’re done packing: did you pack the painter’s tape? This household product is there to help baby-proof, provide entertainment and basically be there for all your needs in a pinch. Grab a roll the next time you’re placing an Amazon order!
Over-packers unite! You don’t have to pare down to the bare minimum on your next trip with your baby. This genius hack from Kaleigh Gawn uses vacuum seal bags and a handheld sealer to shrink down bulky items like diapers and extra blankets so you can reclaim all that suitcase space.
Vacation is supposed to be a time when you leave your cares behind, but not when it comes to cleaning baby bottles! That’s why we think this collapsible bottle drying rack is so genius. Everything you need fits in a compact case and come with everything you need to both wash and hang dry both pump and bottle parts.
Baby gear takes up a ton of space on a good day, but even more so on a road trip when you have to share trunk space with luggage. This hack from @where.is.briggs involves leaving bulky items at home and using a rental service like rents4baby that provides everything from cribs and strollers to beach supplies like tents and wagons. Just place your order and the service will drop off your items at your destination.
The rumors are true: bassinets on flights do exist! While this option doesn’t exist for every airline, many long-haul flights offer free bassinets for bulk-head seats. Most of the time they are first come, first serve so be sure to ask the ticket counter when you arrive if there are any available for your trip. Weight limits do apply.
When it comes to baby travel hacks from TikTok, this one takes the cake. Cruises are known for their plentiful array of cuisines, and baby doesn’t have to miss out. Nowadays, many cruise lines offer options to request baby food alongside your meal in the dining room (with advance notice) or to have the chef puree just about anything for your tot. Make sure you check out your cruise line before embarking to your destination.
There’s barely enough room to stow your carry-on in the seat in front of you on an airplane, so having to constantly dig around for a lost toy is a no-go. This hack from @mothercould involves grabbing a couple of suction cup toys that easily stick to the window so everyone stays happy.
As adults, we can forget that planes are LOUD. Protect baby’s ears with a pair of ear muffs that not only block out the potentially scary sounds of taking flight but also provide a quieter atmosphere for a nap or two.
While this baby travel hack from TikTok is only currently confirmed to work in the UK, it’s worth its weight in formula gold. TikTok parents @thetravelinggays share how to take a vacation’s worth of baby formula with you by ordering a supply at the airport Boots store. We can only hope the idea catches on in the States!
Many parents feel the most comfortable bringing their car seat for air travel, but here are some hacks you might not know. You can skip booking a ticket for your baby and take a gamble by asking if there’s an open seat you can snag for free. If there isn’t one, you’ll be able to check your car seat for free at the gate or when you arrive (we highly recommend a seat cover for protection). If you’d rather not lug a giant seat around the airport, there are always options to rent a seat at your destination.
Sure, your baby loves to sit at the table with the family, but who wants to cart around a booster all vaycay? Make staying with grandparents or friends a cinch and pickup up this compact and foldable harness seat for your next trip.
If you’re not already baby-wearing, traveling is the perfect time to start. Not only do you have to get your own luggage to your destination, but all your wee one’s accessories too (with the same two hands you’ve always had). Using a baby carrier or wrap is the perfect way to navigate checking luggage, getting through security, and getting seated on your plane. Plus, who doesn’t want some extra baby snuggles?
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Amazon parents have a lot of opinions. These are the best baby bottles according to reviews!
Fed up with spending hours researching for the best baby bottles online? Look no further! Our roundup is based on Amazon customer reviews and satisfaction, so you can trust that you’re getting exactly what your fellow parents trust the most. These baby bottles are designed to reduce colic, reflux, and other challenges in babies that can come from bottle-feeding. No more searching and comparing – we’ve got you all taken care of.
Every baby is different, so we made sure to include baby bottles of all kinds (is there anything Amazon can’t do?). From bottles designed to mimic the breast, to vented designs, collapsible silicon, and angled options, we’re confident there’s a solution to your feeding issues, or an improvement to what you’re already doing. Of course, we also recommend you connect with your child’s pediatrician if you’re struggling with feeding your baby to rule out any kind of underlying issues that may be impacting them. Once you know it’s time to change up your bottle game, start reading!
Dr. Brown’s Natural Flow Anti-Colic Options+
Dr. Brown's/Amazon
Dr. Brown's anti-colic vent system is clinically proven to reduce colic, gas, spitting up, and general tummy discomfort. The breast-like nipple shape encourages your baby to latch correctly for more natural bottle feeding and eases the transition from breast to bottle and back again!
Glowing Amazon Review:I bought these for my granddaughter. She was getting hiccups and had a lot of excess gas and spitting up from regular bottles. These bottles have alleviated gas and spitting up and she hardly ever gets hiccups after eating now. Highly recommend these bottles. And they are so cute.—Pamela Collins
Philips Avent Natural Baby Bottles with Natural Response Nipple
Philips
The opening and tip of these bottles from Philips is uniquely designed to only release milk if your wee one is actively drinks, just like breastfeeding! They can drink, swallow, and breathe, so they can control the flow.
Glowing Amazon Review: Only bottle I could get my strictly breastfed baby to take after trying so many brands! He did not do well with the "breast like/ orthodontic" nipple shape and took to this one almost immediately.—Abigale R.
MAM Easy Start bottles have a vented base that releases liquid slowly, reducing colic in 80%* of babies! (*Market research 2010-2020)
Glowing Amazon Review:These are great bottles! I spent hours reading bottle reviews and I hesitantly picked these. My son started using them at one month old. The flow is perfect. The nipple is perfect. They don’t leak. They’re sturdy. I used pumped/frozen milk and they do fine in the bottle warmer. When I switched to formula, I found that the mouth of the bottle is big enough for scooping formula. They’ve held up well. I would recommend these bottles to any parent.—Amazon Customer
In addition to the same great features we've been loving (anti-colic vents, breast-like feeding design), this set is a win thanks to the variety included in the bundle: two 5oz. bottles, two 8oz. bottles, and a package each of slow flow, medium flow, and fast flow replacement nipples!
Glowing Amazon Review:I steered clear from these because of the hype at first, but then I tried it the one in my sample pack of different bottles and it was the only one to not leak and not dribble. So I got more and more. These are amazing. My baby loves the comotomos. As do I. The only things are that the 4 oz easily tips over, so be careful. And, they're a little too wide to fit in some insulated holders properly.—Y.
Your babe will ingest less air and more milk to prevent colic, plus the flexible nipple is closer to the breast! (Also, how cute are these limited-edition colors?!)
Glowing Amazon Review:I purchased these for my niece who I keep during her parents working hours. The bottle we did use was out of stock and we could not get them in. We purchased these based on other positive review of breastfed babies. She did not have any issues switching from her previous bottle to this one and there was not any nipple confusion between mom and bottle. She was an older baby when we started using these therefore established with breastfeeding. They were easy to clean and assemble. It says to not use a normal bottle brush for the actual nipple. So I would recommend getting the bottle brush for this bottle to have on hand.—Anonymous
These super cute bottles have a silicon pouch design that collapse as your baby drinks, decreasing air intake to prevent colic-like symptoms. They're also reusable and can be boiled, microwaved, frozen, sterilized, and are dishwasher safe!
Glowing Amazon Review:Only bottles we use in this house. So easy to clean, cute colors to pick from, easily graspable for child. Totally leak proof until they get older (past 1) and learn how to shake it and drip it everywhere but that’s what the cap is for! I love that you can buy different parts like the interchangeable sippy cup top or the storage pods. I love that you don’t have to replace the whole bottle to get a new one you can just buy new inserts. We have 9 of these bottles, only because I wanted the different styles.—Diana Cheyenne Brown
With extra-soft silicon and triple-vented design to mitigate colic and colic symptoms, the Flexy is definitely a parent fave.
Glowing Amazon Review:My first daughter rejected bottles and it was very rough on me going back to work. Second time around, I wanted to introduce bottles early so that I don’t have the same issues/stress when it’s time to return to work. My second baby was initially taking some bottle between breast feeding and recently started to scream/cry and reject. Obviously this was overwhelming. I looked up new bottles and read the reviews for this. Decided to give it a try since it’s supposedly good for breastfed babies. Oh my god. What a difference! She accepts it, will go back to it even if she pauses (previously would not if she stopped for any moment), and will actually finish a bottle. Wow. Thank you. So far this is a god send.—Alyson
Evenflo's angled shape promotes a semi-upright feeding position that decreases the chances of ear aches, reflux, and gas!
Glowing Amazon Review:Our baby for some reason will only take bottles with the slimmer nipple. He doesn't like the "just like mom" nipples or the ones that are supposed to resemble breasts. We were using Dr. Browns, but they started leaking on us and the only option after 4oz was 9oz and those didn't fit in our diaper bag anyway. These were much cheaper, had less parts and fit in our bag. They work great! The angle makes upright feeding really easy and I like the colors the plastic is super durable and the vent in the nipple makes them really easy to clean. Only complaints: the oz on the bottle can be hard to read of the formula inside got too frothy or bubbly and the kids are hard to take off until you find the right technique. Bottom line.... Well worth the money.—Samuel
If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation. Prices and availability reflect the time of publication.
We’ve got your packing list, must-visit stops, where to purchase forgotten diapers, and so much more
If you are eager to go to Disneyland with a baby or toddler, but overwhelmed by the logistics of how to do it, we’ve got just the recommendations for you. We chatted with Allison Mertzman (aka Adventures with Allison Wonderland), Disney Vacation Planner and owner of an “Earmarked” agency, and got all her tips for what to bring, where to go when your kids need a break, how to maximize your time in the parks, and so much more. While these tips are specific to families looking to bring toddlers (and babies) to Disneyland and Disney California Adventure, most of them would help any family making a visit to the parks.
Is it worth it to go to Disneyland with a baby or toddler?
Allison says it definitely is. (We see where you’re coming from, Allison!) Kids are free until they turn three years old so you don’t have to worry about a ticket for them. By the time your little one is two, they likely can recognize characters like Mickey Mouse and the Disney princesses and will love the magic that Disney brings. In addition, Disney has done a great job making it a multi-generational destination for everyone from 0-99 so, yes, bring your little one along!
What are the best Disneyland attractions for toddlers?
Joshua Sudock/Disneyland Resort
Here are Allison’s Disneyland recommendations for this age:
Top pick:Allison raves about Walt Disney’s Enchanted Tiki Room for families as it is quieter than other areas of the park, there is A/C, you don’t usually have to wait too long, and best of all, you can bring your own food! Plus, most of the action is overhead so kids can easily see.
Anything in Fantasyland
Mickey’s Toontown. This part of the park just re-0pened after a massive renovation (more details on Mickey’s Toontown below). Toddlers love seeing Mickey and Minnie and riding Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway.
Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters and The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh are great rides for this age.
It’s currently under renovation, but the Adventureland Treehouse is a top pick for little ones.
Don’t miss the Magic Happens Parade!
What about the Haunted Mansion? Allison says that if you start them early, kids will know what to expect and won’t be afraid.
What to expect from the new, re-imagined Mickey’s Toontown at Disneyland
Disneyland Resort
For 30 years, Mickey’s Toontown has been delighting kids and adults alike—and recently received its own renovation as part of the park’s centennial celebration. Check out the highlights below—from interactive play areas like CenToonial Park to toddler-friendly amusement rides, it’s the must-go spot for anyone with small kids and contains some of the best rides for toddlers at Disneyland.
Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway: This family-friendly adventure is full of surprising twists and turns—so much so, you’ll want to ride this one again and again.
Chip ‘n’ Dale’s GADGETcoaster: This fun-sized coaster is a great introduction to roller coasters for kids that may be too intimated (or too small) to ride the larger ones at the park. There’s just enough speed, twists, and turns to thrill without scaring even the youngest of riders.
Roger Rabbit’s Car Toon Spin: Just like Roger Rabbit, the cartoon, this is a zany, fast-paced ride that spins and turns throughout. For kids that are easily scared, we suggest skipping this one as its dark, loud, and some of the characters might be considered frightening.
Disneyland Railroad: Located at the entrance of Mickey’s Toontown, you can easily climb aboard the steam-powered Disneyland Railroad for a scenic tour around the park.
Character Sightings Galore: The beauty of Toontown? All the characters hang out here so you and your toddler can visit with Goofy, Mickey, Minnie (and visit inside each of their houses!), as well as the park’s newest cast member, Pete.
Good to Know: Good Boy! Grocers, one of Toontown’s roadside stands offers a variety of grab-and-go drinks, snacks and novelties. Want to make it extra special? Pick up the “Perfect Picnic Basket,” a limited-edition, novelty basket that includes up to three snack-sized items. You can even add the “Perfect Picnic Blanket” to go with your basket.
What are the best Disney California Adventure attractions for toddlers?
Disney Junior stage show—it has all their favorites!
The Little Mermaid ride is great for little ones because it is slow-moving and quiet with familiar songs.
Everything at Pixar Pier (minus the Incredicoaster)
The Redwood Creek Challenge Trail is a great spot for families when you need to get away from the crowds. Toddlers can run around here and explore the play structure. There’s never a wait.
All of Cars Land
Web Slingers and Monsters, Inc. are great rides for this age.
What are the easiest ways to meet characters at Disneyland?
Laura Green
The great thing about Disneyland is that characters just walk around the parks. You’ll find them greeting you when you walk in. They also gather around the train station on Main Street and are also found under the awnings near Disneyland Presents Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln. Character meals are a guaranteed way to meet some of your favorites. The Disney Jr. show in DCA is another good option. If you want to find a specific character, use the app to locate them.
What are some strategies for making the most of your time at Disneyland and DCA?
Allison says that Genie+ works great at these parks because of their smaller footprint, and she recommends families take advantage of it. You can only start using it once you are in the parks so you are only fighting for Lightning Lane privileges with those already in the parks.
Rider Switch is also a great option for families with little ones. You choose the ride you want to go on and approach a Cast Member there to let them know you are interested in rider switch. Adult 1 would wait in the normal queue, while Adult 2 stayed with the kids outside the ride. Once Adult 1 has completed the ride, Adult 2 returns to the ride and boards through the attraction return line and doesn’t have to wait in the normal queue.
Should you bring your own stroller to Disneyland? Or rent one at the park?
Laura Green
The benefit of bringing your own stroller is that you’ll have it available to use from the hotel or parking lot, whereas strollers rented at Disneyland can only be used inside the park. Also, the strollers available at the park are not infant strollers. You’ll be in better shape if you can bring your own stroller or take advantage of various companies that will deliver a stroller to your hotel in advance of your arrival if you don’t want to travel with one.
At the parks, there will be designated stroller parking. Figure out a way to differentiate your stroller from the hundreds of other black strollers that will be there. Or, better yet, put an AirTag on your stroller so that if it gets moved by a Cast Member for some reason, you’ll be able to find it.
Are there baby changing stations and nursing rooms at Disneyland?
Yes! There are Baby Care Centers at both Disneyland and Disney California Adventure. In Disneyland, it is located at the end of Main Street by First Aid, and in DCA, it is in the new San Fransokyo near Ghiradelli. Forget to bring extra diapers? You can grab some here! They even have toddler food, baby formula, sunscreen, over-the-counter medications, and pacifiers in the vending machines. There are toddler-size toilets, feeding stations, and microwaves for warming meals.
What should you do if your toddler is getting overwhelmed? Are there low-sensory areas?
In Disneyland, the area in Critter Country near the Hungry Bear Restaurant tends to get less traffic. You can watch the canoes and Mark Twain River Boat go by.
The Grizzly Peak area in DCA gets less traffic and is a great spot to go with little ones.
What are some tips for making mealtime easy at Disneyland?
Joshua Sudock/Disneyland Resort
Bring your own food. You can bring in whatever you want so pack those snacks so nobody gets hangry.
If you are going to order lunch, place your order early, like 9 a.m. You can always move the pick-up time to later but it’s almost impossible to move it earlier once the lunch rush starts.
Book dining reservations 60 days in advance when reservations open. The only in-park character meal is Minnie & Friends – Breakfast in the Park at the Plaza Inn so it books up fast.
Should you stay on property when visiting Disneyland?
Yes, because there are some exclusive benefits. You’ll get 30 minutes of early access to the parks before the regular guests which allows you to walk on the rides without a wait. You also get an exclusive entrance to the parks, thus avoiding the long lines at the main entrances. You won’t have to deal with parking before entering the park.
What do you need to bring with you to Disneyland?
Here’s Allison’s packing list:
neck fans and stroller fans
sweaters, ponchos, sunscreen, and stroller cover for changes in weather
diapers and wipes, more than you think you need
snacks (yes, you can bring in your own food!) and a reusable water bottle (you can ask at any quick-service station for a cup of water)
purchase a fuel rod from Amazon before you go (it’s cheaper) or buy one in the park. These allow you to charge your phone and then when it’s dead, you can swap it for a fully-charged fuel rod for free.
Magic Bands (if you are using them) and mouse ears (always!)
your phone—you’ll need it to take pics and use the Disneyland app.
Why should you use a Disney Vacation Planner to book your trip?
Allison Mertzman
You are going to be spending quite a bit of money to go to Disneyland and Disney California Adventure so you’ll want to make the most of your visit. Hiring an expert like Allison or a member of her team means you’ll get recommendations from someone who is super passionate about Disney and the Disney vacation experience. Allison’s team includes a military veteran who is well-versed in using military benefits at the parks. There’s also a mom with special needs kids who can give you advice on visiting with special needs kids or adults.
The news for women in the US continues to be frighteningly bleak. Another supply chain issue, similar to the baby formula shortage, is happening in the US, this time with feminine products. A shortage of tampons and pads is hitting manufacturers because of staffing and transportation issues, and the rising costs of raw materials, making it difficult for women to find products in stores.
The shortage was first reported in an article in Time, calling the issue one “no one is talking about.” The magazine spoke to Dana Marlowe, founder of I Support the Girls, which provides essential items to people experiencing homelessness, who said they’ve see shortages in tampon donations. “What’s been going on for a couple months is that organizations call us up and say, ‘we need tampons,’ and we go to our warehouse and there’s nothing there,” Marlowe said.
"Women are not only faced with a baby formula shortage, but now tampons are in short supply" as Biden's supply chain crisis worsens. pic.twitter.com/dJZWpuL7n4
CVS, Target, and Walgreens told NPR that they were “aware” of shortages at some of their locations and that suppliers haven’t been able to fill orders for several weeks. Walgreens said its shortages “may only be in specific brands while we navigate the supply disruption,” and that it is updating store-specific websites with availability.
Procter & Gamble told the outlet that “the Tampax team is producing tampons 24/7 to meet the increased demand.”
“To put it bluntly, tampons are next to impossible to find,” Michelle Wolfe, a radio host in Bozeman, Montana, told TIME. She also penned an essay about the issue for her radio station’s website in March about not being able to find tampons. “I would say it’s been like this for a solid six months.”
Because of the shortage in raw materials, prices have been steadily rising for feminine products, nearly 10% this year alone, Bloomberg reported. One reason is the materials like cotton and rayon were also being used to make masks and other medical products during the pandemic.
The great tampon shortage of 2022 is the supply chain problem no one's talking about https://t.co/GMiAe4GUP0
“Getting raw and packed materials to the places we need to get them to continues to be costly and highly volatile,” said Andre Schulten, Procter & Gamble’s chief financial officer, on a recent earnings call.
A P&G spokesperson told CNN: “We understand it is frustrating for consumers when they can’t find what they need. We can assure you this is a temporary situation.”
Parents are breathing a sigh of relief hearing the news this morning that the first shipment of baby formula arrived as part of Operation Fly Formula, a USDA and Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) program that uses DOD-contracted aircraft to bring back formula from overseas amid the shortage in the US.
President Joe Biden made the announcement yesterday on Twitter, saying in part that, “Our team is working around the clock to get safe formula to everyone who needs it.” Additional formula will begin arriving in stores “as early as this week,” Brian Deese, President Joe Biden’s top economic adviser in the White House, said on CNN’s State of the Union.
Folks, I’m excited to tell you that the first flight from Operation Fly Formula is loaded up with more than 70,000 pounds of infant formula and about to land in Indiana.
Our team is working around the clock to get safe formula to everyone who needs it. pic.twitter.com/cX4KU0eDtZ
“Folks, I’m excited to tell you that the first flight from Operation Fly Formula is loaded up with more than 70,000 pounds of infant formula and about to land in Indiana,” Biden also said in his tweet. The first plane that landed in Indianapolis from Germany will account for “15% of the overall national volume that we need,” Deese said.
“Given their unique needs, children who lose access to it can require medical supervision until the formula is returned to the shelves,” Robert Ford, CEO of Abbott Laboratories, said in a Washington Post opinion piece over the weekend, following a recall of the company’s products in February. “I will not mince words — this is tragic and heartbreaking, and it is consuming my thoughts and those of my colleagues.”
This shipment contained Nestlé Health Science Alfamino Infant and Alfamino Junior formula, according to Bloomberg. A second flight of Nestlé formula with cow’s milk protein allergy will arrive in a couple of days.
I have an update on Operation Fly Formula. We have secured a second flight to transport Nestlé specialty infant formula to Pennsylvania.
The flight and trucking will take place in the coming days, and I will continue to keep you updated.
For parents who have been at their wit’s end about the lack of formula to feed their children, this news couldn’t come soon enough. The shipment will provide enough formula for 9,000 babies and 18,000 toddlers for a week, Tom Vilsack, the agriculture secretary, said in televised remarks from the Indianapolis airport.
Bare formula shelves here in Dover, Delaware, where the state’s formula shortage is reportedly one of the worst in the nation. pic.twitter.com/eln9hGOmk5
In addition to Operation Fly Formula, Congress last week passed a bipartisan bill called the Access to Baby Formula Act, requiring formula manufacturers to make additional supply in the event of future shortfalls and get rid of any barriers for WIC program participants related to buying formula.
It’s always a good time to give back to your community. Why not give back, declutter your closets and toy bins while helping the planet at the same time? We’ve gathered a list of places where you can used toy donations support great causes and families in need. Everybody wins!
Looking to offload some of your pre-loved toys to another family in your community? ToyCycle is perfect and offers peer-to-peer toy recycling where you post available items and arrange for pick up and vice versa if you see an item that you can use. They even have an app that makes it easy to post the items that you'd like to pass down. Note: Items are sorted by age to make it easier to find what you need.
SCRAP Old objects find new lives at SCRAP, the Bay Area's first re-use center for creative education. Donations of art supplies, craft supplies, toys, textiles and office supplies are sorted, stored and made available to the community for educational programs and creative projects in the classroom and at home. SCRAP accepts donations of clean, reusable materials Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Check online for a full list of accepted materials and call ahead to ensure that they have enough storage space to accept your donation.
801 Toland St. San Francisco, CA Online: scrap-sf.org
Salvation Army The Salvation Army Family Store and Donation Center in San Francisco accepts used toy donations, books and children's clothing. Mon.-Sat., 9 a.m.-7 p.m., and Sun., 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Donated items are sold in the Family Store and the proceeds are used to fund the Salvation Army's Adult Rehabilitation Centers. You can even schedule a pickup!
Editor's Note: Edgewood Center for Children and Families has moved from San Carlos to San Francisco.
New Location Alert! The Edgewood Center for Children and Families has moved but is still providing treatment and prevention programs to children, youth and families that have experienced traumatic stress. Show your support by donating to their wish list that includes art supplies, gently used tablets, personal care items, sports equipment, household items, books, dolls, puppets, toy trucks and games in new or excellent condition. Donations are given directly to clients.
1801 Vicente St. San Francisco, CA Online: edgewood.org
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Goodwill Goodwill in San Francisco accepts donations of household items, women's clothing, men's clothing and children's items including books, baby gear (must meet current safety standards), sports equipment, games and toys. Drop off hours are Mon.-Sat. 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Sun. 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Donated items are sold in Goodwill stores and the proceeds are used to fund programs that help disadvantaged individuals learn competitive job skills and find employment.
1669 Fillmore St. San Francisco, CA Online: goodwill.org
Homeless Prenatal Program For over 30 years the Homeless Prenatal Program in San Francisco has been serving as an empowering resource center for families. The center accepts gently used baby and maternity clothing, children's and parenting books. COVID-19 Update: The program is ONLY accepting baby formula, baby food, diapers and wipes at this time. Call for drop-off hours. You can also make a cash donation online.
SF Smiles SF Smiles collects donations by appointment only of new and gently used essentials for individuals and families in need throughout the San Francisco Bay Area. SF Smiles is run on a volunteer basis by Chad Christensen out of his family home in the Inner Sunset neighborhood of San Francisco. Chad and his volunteers redistribute donations directly to families and also work with many local organizations to reach their programs’ clients.
Editor's Note: BANANAS is not accepting on-site donations at this time. Visit their Virtual Boutique to learn how to help those in need.
BANANAS provides affordable child care, workshops, classes and support groups for families in Northern Alameda County. Their BANANAS Boutique provides low-income parents with free books, toys and equipment for their children. Your donations of clean and gently used toys, books, puzzles, games, children's clothing and maternity wear keep the boutique stocked up. Items can be dropped off during business hours. Due to limited space, the BANANAS Boutique occasionally reaches storage capacity, so call ahead before heading over.
Davis Street This organization assists families in need by addressing issues facing low-income families and the homeless. In addition to gently used clothing, the organization also accepts household items, backpacks and school supplies in the fall as well as new toys for its holiday program. Donation hours are Mon.-Tues. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. COVID-19 Update: Only donations of in-kind donations of unexpired non-perishable canned food are being accepted.
3081 Teagarden Street San Leandro, CA Online: Davisstreet.org
Loved Twice is a nonprofit organization that supports new mothers by providing them with baby clothing. They accept baby clothing sizes 0-12 months only and can also take small blankets and board books. Loved Twice has several Bay Area drop-off locations for your convenience. Visit their website to see if there’s a location near you and make a donation today!
Salvation Army The Salvation Army Family Store and Donation Center in Alameda accepts used toy donations, books and children's clothing, Mon.-Sat. 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Donated items are sold in the Family Store and the proceeds are used to fund the Salvation Army's Adult Rehabilitation Centers.
Goodwill Goodwill in Oakland accepts donations of household items, women's clothing, men's clothing and children's items including books, baby gear (must meet current safety standards), sports equipment, games and toys. Drop-off hours are Mon.-Sat. 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Sun. 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Donated items are sold in Goodwill stores and the proceeds are used to fund programs that help disadvantaged individuals learn competitive job skills and find employment.
Goodwill Goodwill in Palo Alto accepts donations of household items, women’s clothing, men’s clothing and children’s items including books, baby gear (must meet current safety standards), sports equipment, games, and toys. Drop-off hours are Mon.-Sun. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Donated items are sold in Goodwill stores and the proceeds are used to fund programs that help disadvantaged individuals learn competitive job skills and find employment.
4085 El Camino Way Palo Alto, CA Online: goodwill.org
PARCA PARCA helps people with development disabilities and their families at all stages of their lives, from children’s services to independent residential programs to respite care. Through a partnership with Saver’s Stores, PARCA turns used clothing and household item donations into funds that support their programs. Requested items include toys, games, puzzles, stuffed animals, bicycles and sports equipment, as well as clothes and household items. Donors can schedule a donation pick up over the phone and online, or drop off donations at Saver’s Thrift Store in Redwood City or Milpitas, during store hours.
800 Airport Blvd., Suite 320 Burlingame, CA Online: parca.org
This organization supports families escaping intimate partner abuse. Their needs include diapers, new clothing, umbrellas, strollers and more. They run seasonal school supply drives. You can view their wish list here and drop off donations at their office. COVID-19 Update: CORA is currently not accepting donations of goods. Check their website for updates.
LifeMoves LifeMoves provides interim shelter and services for families. Linens, towels and blankets are among the family shelters' greatest need. Household supplies such as towels are also needed for incoming residents. View shelter wish lists here and consider making a donation today.
184 South 11th Street San Jose CA Online: lifemoves.org
Salvation Army We moved! The Salvation Army Family Store in San Jose is now located on West Taylor Street. It accepts used toy donations such as books, bikes, games, stuffed animals and children's clothing, Mon.-Sat. 9 a.m. to 8p.m. and Sundays 10 a.m.-6p.m. Donated items are sold in the Family Store and the proceeds are used to fund the Salvation Army's Adult Rehabilitation Centers.
Santa Maria Urban Ministry was founded in 1983 to provide emergency food to impoverished families in downtown San Jose. Santa Maria has provided a food pantry continuously for 38 years and also collects donations of clothing and goods for families in need. In addition to clothing and care items, there is a need for school and craft supplies. Learn more about their wish lists and make a donation.
Salvation Army The Salvation Army does more than just ring bells and accept change! Their Family Store and Donation Trailer in San Rafael accepts donations Tues.-Sat. 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. Donated items are sold in the Family Store and the proceeds are used to fund the Salvation Army's Adult Rehabilitation Centers.
Goodwill Drop off your used toy donations, household items, women's clothing, men's clothing and children's items including books, baby gear (must meet current safety standards), sports equipment, games and toys at Goodwill's Drop Off Center, located inside the Mill Valley Safeway on Camino Alto. Drop off hours are Mon.-Sun., 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Donated items are sold in Goodwill stores and the proceeds are used to fund programs that help disadvantaged individuals learn competitive job skills and find employment.
1 Camino Alto Mill Valley, CA Online: goodwill.org
There is in fact a formula shortage––to the tune of 31% of products being out of stock this month, according to Datasembly, a retail software company. In addition to higher demand, the industry is still trying to recover from the Abbott recall that sent thousands of cans of formula to the trash, many of which were speciality formulas like Similac, Alimentum and EleCare.
According to The Guardian, the hardest hit states (with 40%+ out-of-stock percentages) have been Minnesota, Connecticut, Hawaii, Iowa, Louisiana, Maryland, North Dakota, Rhode Island, South Dakota and Texas.
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Plagued by months of formula shortages, retailers are now instituting purchase limits that are trying to help the masses, but frustrating many parents who are fearful of not getting the speciality formulas their babies need. If you’re a formula-feeding parent, you’ve likely spent a decent amount of time figuring out the best one that works for your baby. Finding empty shelves is especially scary.
Neil Saunders, managing director of GlobalData Retail in New York shares in an email to The Washington Post, “Baby formula is still available in some shops, but supply is very patchy and out of stocks arise very quickly. Unfortunately, shortages encourage some people to buy in bulk and hoard, which further contributes to availability issues. This is why some retailers have put in place quantity restrictions.”
According to The Washington Post, Walgreens and CVS have limited formula purchases to three per transaction online and in stores. Target has put a cap on online purchases to four maximum and Costco’s website only allows two per order. The Wall Street Journal is reporting more restrictions at other retailers as well, such as Walmart’s five-per-day rule.
Brian Dittmeier, senior director of public policy at the National WIC Association shared in an email, “We are particularly concerned about risky practices that can jeopardize an infant’s growth and development.” As parents wait for the supply chain issues to resolve, be sure to talk to your pediatrician before making any major dietary changes for your baby.
Is your family drowning in stuff? We’ve all been there when our closets have been full, drawers were overflowing, and our garages hadn’t seen a car parked in there in years. Where did all of this stuff come from, and how do you get rid of it? While it does take some time, it is doable, and there are lots of nearby places to donate used toys, clothes and kid gear that are taking up much-needed space at your place. Here’s what you need to know.
Where to Start
If you already know what items need to go, you’re off to a great start. If not, it’s recommend that you go from room to room with three boxes or containers marked: “To Keep”, “To Throw Away” and “To Donate.” Tackle those piles by putting items in the appropriate box. You might need to make some tough decisions on what not to keep, but experts suggest that if you haven’t used it in over a year, it’s time to toss it.
Where to Donate
Goodwill
Goodwill Industries
Seattle Goodwill provides job training and education to help individuals overcome barriers to employment. They offer 30 donation centers making it really easy for families bringing in pre-sorted used goods. If you'd like to give new life to toys, clothes and other small items, this is the spot to do it. The process is pretty quick during the week, but you might experience a longer wait time during the weekend, so plan accordingly.
What used items to donate: Right now, Goodwill is taking clothing, accessories, shoes, toys, sporting goods, books (and other media), household appliances and items. Most locations are accepting furniture donations, but not all, so be sure to check the list before you go.
Did you know food stamps don't cover diapers? Westside Baby provides diapers, clothing and other critical items to children and families throughout King County. In 2021, Westside Baby saw record-high need. They responded by distributing 2.5 million diapers, 1,600 car seats and over 2,000 bags of clothes. Consider helping out a new baby by adding a box of new diapers and wipes to your donation. Westside Baby has two drop-off locations that you can schedule a donation online. Drop-off locations are at South Lake Union on Mondays and White Center on Wednesdays, both from 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
What used items to donate: Diapers, wipes, hygiene items (baby wash/shampoo, etc.), infant bathtubs, potty chairs, bouncy seats, winter clothing (especially 0-6 months), books, toys, shoes, bottles, baby-wearing carriers and diaper bags.
What NEW items to donate: Socks, underwear and formula (especially Similac).
Note: Westside Baby will not accept expired car seats and are not collecting furniture, changing tables, "exersaucers" or baby swings.
10002 14th Ave. S.W. Seattle, WA 98146 206-767-1662
Simply put, Habitat for Humanity helps low-income families build their own homes and restore dignity. Their Habitat ReStores are home improvement stores that accept small and large donations of new or gently used furniture, appliances, housewares, building materials and more. Proceeds from the sales of these items help Habitat’s work in your community and around the world. Habitat ReStore staff and volunteers make the donation process as simple as possible. You can always donate goods in person, and many Habitat ReStores offer free pickup of large items. There is one very large ReStore in Tukwila near Southcenter.
Seattle-King County ReStore 1185 Andover Park W. Tukwila, WA98188 888-507-7078
With thrift stores similar to the Goodwill, St. Vincent de Paul also serves the community by running a food bank, programs for Veterans, basic health assessments, language and social services to the Hispanic community in King County and a case management program and call center to help individuals access social services. The charity is currently accepting donations at the Georgetown Kent, Kenmore, Burien, and Renton locations. Donations can be given Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. (However, the Georgetown location does not accept donations on Saturdays). Make sure your items are in sellable condition—no rips, tears, stains or big scratches. When you arrive, you'll be asked to place your donation in wire-framed boxes, and you can download an e-receipt online for donations over $250.
What used items to donate: They're currently accepting clothing, electronic items and household items. Everything needs to be in good working order. Hard surface furniture donations (tables, wooden chairs, desks, etc.) our being accepted at the Kent, Kenmore, Burien, and Renton locations only.
Eastside Baby Corner provides direct assistance to local families challenged by job loss, homelessness, medical crisis and poverty. Each year they provide more than 8,000 clothing bags (each with a week's wardrobe) and more than 1,324 car seats to local families, keeping children safe and families comforted in their time of greatest need. Your donations won't gather dust here; items are matched to deserving families within a week of the item being requested.
What used items to donate: Clothing for children (birth through size 14), maternity clothing, baby gear, shoes, bottles, toys, diapers (new or opened packages), school supplies and books, blankets, bedding, towels, bicycles, and more. Check their website for the complete list of items.
Most needed items: Boy’s clothing: size 12-14, children’s pants sizes 2T-14, shoes (boy’s size 7C – 1Y and girl’s size 8C – 1Y), umbrellas, baby monitors, safety gates, safety locks, pajamas, towels, bedding (especially queen sheets and comforters of all sizes) and infant fleece blanket sleepers size NB-9 mos.
Note: EBC does not accept walkers with wheels, used nipples or pacifiers or those made in China, crib bumpers, open food or formula packages, flat fabric slings, sleep wedge, oral medication, toys with magnets, teethers containing gel or liquid, or made with wood, amber, marble or silicone. Other Items not accepted include toys bigger than a school backpack, adult clothing (except for maternity), ski equipment, electric breast pumps, humidifier/vaporizers, furniture, large train tables and stuffed animals longer than 12 inches. When in doubt, give them a call.
1510 N.W. Maple St. Issaquah, WA 98027 425-865-0234
This standout organization's mission is to "give foster kids a childhood and a future." Among the myriad of services Treehouse provides to youth in the foster care system is an awesome warehouse filled to the brim with new and like-new clothing, shoes, toys, school supplies and books. This is where the kids can go "shopping" (everything is free) for what they want and need. This is a particularly great choice if along with your toy donation, you have a fashion-conscious tween (or toddler for that matter) who has outgrown their stylish brands.
What used items to donate: Infant/toddler, kids and young adult clothing, shoes and basic accessories, luggage, books, toys and games.
What NEW items to donate: Socks, underwear, bras, swimwear, blankets, stuffed animals, school supplies (including lunch boxes and backpacks), hygiene items (including diapers and baby wipes), bikes, scooters and skateboards. Other ways to donate can be found online.
Note: Treehouse will not accept items that are worn and/or out of date – such as: clothing in poor condition, toys and games that are missing pieces, luggage that has broken straps, zippers, or wheels; furniture, mattresses, play structures, used baby equipment (car seats, pack-n-plays, strollers, etc.), electronics (video games, phones, DVDs, CDs, etc.), household Items (appliances, kitchenware, decorations, wall decor, pillows, bedding (sheets and comforters), etc., breast pumps or breast pump accessories, food, beverages, or baby formula.
2100 24th Ave. S., Suite 200 Seattle, WA 98144 206-767-7000
Drop-off Hours: Tue. & Thu., 10 a.m.-3 p.m. or by appointment.
Northwest Center
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The Northwest Center has created schools and bustling social enterprises which demonstrate the powerful benefit of people of all abilities working together. Your toys will be used in one of their awesome early learning programs where children with and without developmental disabilities learn and play together. With two dozen drop off locations, this organization makes donating super easy. Currently, the Northwest Center Big Blue Trucks aren't making rounds for donation pick-ups, but families can still drop off clothing only in the Big Blue Bins. Find one near you online. You can also donate to Northwest Center at any Value Village store.
7272 W. Marginal Way S. Seattle, WA 98108 206-285-9140
Mary's Place
Mary's Place
This safe haven provides more than just the tangible needs of food and shelter for homeless families with children; Mary's Place also provides a community and a safety net for women and families looking to rebuild their lives and move back into housing quickly. They are always in need of gently used items and other items. They have donation stations in SODO (Mon.-Sat., 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m.) and Seattle Regrade (Mon.-Fri., 9 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sat., 9 a.m.-1 p.m.). More information about each location and drop-off hours can be found online.
What new or used items to donate: Children's books, backpacks, tote bags, fanny packs, small suitcases, bottles, sippy cups, in-season clothing for men, women and kids, raincoats, towels, utensils, small appliances (microwaves, crock pots, toasters, blenders), digital ear thermometers,
What NEW items to donate: Diapers (especially sizes 5 & 6), baby wipes, hand sanitizer, antibacterial hand wipes, individual tissue packets, alcohol wipes, cough drops, Pedialyte packets, pain relievers (Ibuprofen, aspirin), topical antibiotic ointments (like Neosporin or PolySporin), cough drops, hairbrushes, hair ties, body wash, ethnic hair care, lotion, Chapstick, razors, nail clippers, makeup, mouthwash, toothbrushes and toothpaste.
Items with a high need: Twin sheets, blankets, pillowcases, auto shop gift certificates, maternity clothes, new underwear (all sizes - men, women and children), stroller covers and towels. Check online for the complete, most up-to-date list.
The Healing Center
Pixabay
As the only drop-in grief support center for youth (ages 4-18) in the area, The Healing Center fills an important gap in supporting kids who've experienced loss or trauma. The Healing Center also offers grief-support for adults, children and families as well as a day camp in the summer. The organization offers a unique, long-term, multi-faceted approach to grief support, combining group support with informal events and social networks.
Children’s programming supplies needed: Crayons, markers, colored pencil, coloring books, notebooks, board games, sketch book, Play-doh, model magic, beading supplies, watercolor supplies, washable kid's paint, construction paper, plain white paper and stickers.
Household supplies needed: Furniture (couches and chairs), lamps, side tables, office chairs and office desks.
If you have a LEGO lover in your life who's ready to release his or her (millions) of LEGO bricks and figurines, do not put them in your normal "donate box." Organizations like the Goodwill, Salvation Army, etc. will just throw them away if they're not in a complete set and if you try to recycle them, the city will sort them out and send them to the landfill. Give your LEGOs a new lease on life by sending them to the Brick Recycler. They will then send sets of LEGOs to schools in low-income areas, foster care programs, hospitals, and other organizations are also in need of LEGO sets but don’t have the money to buy them. You can ship them your mixed bag of LEGOs (for free if you ship via ground service including UPS Ground and FedEx Ground) and they'll sort and pass your bricks along to future builders. What a brick-tastic idea!
Address shipments to: Brick Recycler c/o Guaranteed Express 652 N. King Rd. San Jose, CA 95133
Before you start your post-nap time stealth purge of the toy bin or (gasp!) before enlisting the kids in selecting a few of their treasures to share with a child in need, here are a few tips for donating used toys:
1. Make your donations count by only offering items that are truly "gently used" and in good working order. Almost all organizations will throw away broken, stained or otherwise unusable toys, clothes or other donations, including toys missing any of their parts. St. Vincent de Paul estimates their annual garbage bill at over $60,000 because of unsellable items that include things like shirts with stains or broken zippers or puzzles with missing pieces. Hint: Local subscription service, Ridwell is a great place to threadcycle non-wearable clothing.
2. Don't donate toys or items that have been recalled. Those drop-side cribs are a no-no, even if it was a gorgeous family heirloom that all your kiddos slept safely in.
3. Put fresh batteries in automated toys. Or include a new pack of batteries with your donation.
4. Sort your donations. Though it isn't a requirement, it really helps the donation stations process donations when items are pre-sorted. For an example, place all clothing in one bag and shoes in another.
5. Double check on questionable items. Plush animals are frequently not accepted due to allergens. Big-ticket items like play furniture or outdoor play equipment may not be accepted as many organizations don't have room to store these biggies, so you might want to give your local organization a call before you haul it over there. (Don't stress! We have some options below for such cases.)
6. Don't forget to ask for a receipt. Most places will give you a tax deduction for your donation, so ask for a receipt!
The US Food and Drug Administration on Thursday cautioned people to avoid select Similac, Alimentum or EleCare powdered infant formulas due to potential contamination with Cronobacter, a type of bacteria that can cause severe food-borne illness.
The recall impacts formula produced in Abbott Nutrition’s Sturgis, MI facility and those with the first two digits of the code are 22 through 37; the code on the container contains K8, SH or Z2; the expiration date is April 1, 2022, or later. The codes are located near the expiration date on the product packaging.
Image via iStock
Four children were hospitalized and one baby died of bacterial infections, and an investigation into the source of the bacteria is ongoing. The infections were found in Texas, Ohio and Minnesota, the FDA said in a news release. They also noted that “Parents and caregivers of infants who have used these products, and are concerned about the health of their child, should contact their child’s health care provider.”
Three infections stemmed from Cronobacter, a bacteria that can cause severe, life-threatening infections or inflammation of the membranes that protect the brain and spine. The third infection was from Salmonella, a group of bacteria that can cause digestive illness and fever.
However, “During testing in our Sturgis, Mich., facility, we found evidence of Cronobacter sakazakii in the plant in non-product contact areas. We found no evidence of Salmonella Newport,” Abbott Nutrition said in a news release. “Importantly, no distributed product has tested positive for the presence of either of these bacteria, and we continue to test.”
This news comes at a bad time—the US is facing a shortage of baby formula due to challenges across the supply chains, including impacts on transportation, labor and logistics. According to market research firm IRI, stores’ infant formula inventories in mid-January were down 17% from where they were in mid-February 2020, just before the pandemic hit US shores.
