Archived FAQ’s

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What should I do if I can’t find baby formula?

If you are not able to obtain your desired formula speak to your pediatrician about the best, safest alternative. The U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) also announced it is taking steps to help improve supply of baby and specialty formula products. However, if you’re struggling to find baby formula during the shortage we encourage you to visit the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the American Academy of Pediatrics for additional resources.

Why are infant formulas regulated by the FDA?

The FDA ensures the ingredients in baby formula meet the requirements necessary for infant development, and that it contains the correct balance of nutrients, including vitamins and minerals. It also verifies that the baby formula has no harmful contaminants.

What can happen if you make your own formula?

There is a risk for contamination that may cause an infection in the baby’s body. Too many minerals or vitamins in the formula can result in overdose, or if it does not contain enough minerals or vitamins it can cause nutritional deficiencies and impact healthy development.

Why can’t I dilute infant formula?

Diluting infant formula can result in the baby receiving too much water, which can disrupt brain function and cause dangerous imbalances in the baby’s electrolytes.

If you have questions or someone has been exposed to homemade or non- approved infant formula, contact call 1-800-222-1222.

What COVID-19 social media resources are available?

Download our COVID-19 Social Media Toolkit. This resource provides social media information and resources about poisoning concerns related to COVID-19.

Who should I contact with questions related to COVID-19?

  • The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) has COVID-19  public hotline available from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday-Friday; Saturday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. call 1-833-431-2053.
  • MDH’s COVID-19 website and CDC’s Coronavirus Disease 2019 website are the best places to get the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Are more poison exposures happening due to COVID-19?

  • Many poison centers across the country have been seeing an increase in calls related to hand sanitizer, bleach, and other cleaning products. This is most likely due to increased usage of these products as well as routines being disrupted and more time being spent at home.
  • As you continue to clean and disinfect your home, please remember that products can be harmful if used in the wrong way, in the wrong amount, or by the wrong person. Some key prevention tips include:
    • Always read the label
    • Follow any safety warnings
    • Dilute products as directed since using them at a higher concentration than recommended can be dangerous
    • Ensure adequate ventilation by opening windows and doors
    • Do not mix cleaning products as this can create hazardous gases
    • Keep products up, away, & out of the sight and reach of young children
  • Click here to download MDH’s Cleaning & Disinfecting for COVID-19 PDF handout. This resource has helpful information about safely using chemicals to reduce the spread of COVID-19.
  • For information in Spanish, please visit the CDC’s webpage on Cleaning And Disinfecting Your Home and click on “Other Languages” or go to the National Pesticide Information Center’s website.