Tennessee Ranks Top In Nation For Baby Formula Shortage

Tennessee tops the list of states across the nation facing a baby formula shortage.  The country was already experiencing infant formula supply issues due to COVID-19 when the problem was exacerbated after Abbott, the largest supplier of formula in the U.S., was forced to recall several major brands and close a manufacturing plant in February due to contamination concerns.  Now, according to Moneywatch, 54% of the top-selling baby formula products are sold out in Tennessee.  Texas is next on the list at 53%, with Iowa, North Dakota and South Dakota all at 50-51%.  WVLT reports that the FDA is expanding operating hours at plants and making it easier for approved baby formula to be imported. Abbott, the Similac maker, said the Michigan plant at the center of a recall could restart within two weeks, pending FDA approval. If it’s allowed to re-open, experts said it will take at least six to eight weeks for its formula to be back on store shelves.