The Infant Formula Crisis: Where We Are Now

FDA expects that the measures it’s taken, along with the June 4 reopening of the Sturgis facility will alleviate the shortage. “We will ramp up production as quickly as we can while meeting all [FDA] requirements,” an Abbott spokesperson tells Food Quality & Safety. “We understand the urgent need for formula and our top priority is getting high-quality, safe formula into the hands of families across America.”

Additionally, USDA has announced that, under the Access to Baby Formula Act signed in late May, it is offering waivers to ensure that families can use benefits from the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) to purchase formula outside what is typically designated for the program.

Investigation

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Office of Inspector General has launched an audit into FDA’s overall response to the crisis, examining whether it upheld its duty to safeguard the nation’s food supply and ensure that all ingredients are safe. FDA has stated it will cooperate fully with the watchdog’s review.