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Coping with the 2022 infant formula shortage.
Maria Kalaitzandonakes1, Brenna Ellison2, Jonathan Coppess1
1Department of Agricultural & Consumer Economics, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Champaign, IL, United States.
Preventive Medicine Reports
|February 17, 2023
Summary
During a 2022 formula shortage, 35% of US consumers searched for infant formula. Many utilized store searches, while some attempted risky alternatives like homemade formula.
Area of Science:
- Consumer Behavior
- Public Health
- Nutrition Policy
Background:
- The 2022 infant formula shortage significantly impacted US consumers.
- Understanding consumer responses and policy support is crucial for future preparedness.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the percentage of US consumers seeking formula during the shortage.
- To identify coping mechanisms employed by consumers.
- To assess public support for infant formula policy changes.
Main Methods:
- An online survey was administered to approximately 1,000 US consumers in August 2022.
- The survey collected data on formula acquisition attempts, coping strategies, and policy opinions.
Main Results:
- Approximately 35% of surveyed consumers attempted to purchase infant formula.
- The primary coping strategy involved searching multiple retail outlets and online sources.
- Public health recommendations like brand switching and breastfeeding were less frequently adopted; some consumers made homemade formula despite warnings.
Conclusions:
- Consumer behavior during the shortage highlights the need for targeted public health communication.
- Significant public support exists for policies ensuring formula availability, including imported formula and increased domestic production oversight.
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