The B.C. government is asking pharmacies to keep a specialized form of baby formula behind the counter in order to preserve limited supplies.
In a Friday media release, the Ministry of Health said there was no shortage of normal baby formula, but that specialized hypoallergenic infant formula — needed by about two per cent of babies — is in short supply.
The shortage includes products with extensively hydrolyzed formulas and amino acid-based formulas.
The ministry said the specialized formula, which is for babies with food allergies and certain medical conditions, is being distributed to pharmacies exclusively while supplies are short.
The additional extra step of keeping the product behind the counters is meant to ensure they’re available to families who genuinely need them, the ministry said.
Families who need the products will also be limited to buying a seven- to 10-day supply at once, though pharmacists can make exceptions for people with barriers such as living in remote communities, according to the ministry.
It added that some families who use the specialized formulas may be able to swap to a less specialized product, in consultation with their health-care provider. Families can also call the 811 health line to discuss their child’s needs with a registered dietitian, registered nurse or pharmacist.
The ministry said the shortage, which is nationwide, is “temporary,” and due to the interim closure of the Abbott’s manufacturing plant in Sturgis, Mich., along with the voluntary recall of product made there.
The plant reopened on June 4, but supply has not stabilized yet, the ministry said.