You may have recently noticed a shortage of baby formula in the United States. It can be intimidating to try a new formula when you don't know which brand will best suit your child. When you find a formula that is in stock but isn't your brand, there are ways you can work with that. Here are the steps of how to choose a formula.

Parents should not use toddler-labeled formula for a baby.

A child's first year of life is critical to be aware of when feeding them because this is a time their diet is specific to their growth and development. After all, infant formula substitutes what the mother's milk resembles. Infants need different nutrients than toddlers. Categories of vital components are fats, proteins, and carbohydrates. These three categories are essential building blocks for a baby's metabolism and immune system.

Check labels to see if the package is expired.

Expired baby formula can increase the chance of your little one obtaining a foodborne illness. If your formula's shelf life has exceeded one year, throw it out. However, it is rare for your baby to become sick. Symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, or fever may show signs you should take your baby to the doctor immediately.

Do not purchase or use if the packaging looks unusual, dented, not sealed under the lid, is leaking, has puffy ends, rust spots, etc.

If dented, make sure the dent is no deeper than if you were to put your finger flat in it.

Dents usually appear to have a sharp edge on the top or side. It's best to discard if your gut tells you to.

Your infant is your number one priority, and you want to do all you can to make decisions that are suitable for your child's health. If all three criteria areas meet your expectations when searching for a new formula, it is best to check with your physician or doctor. If you still don't have the answer you need, it is wise to disregard Homemade Formula. The homemade formula is not an option because it takes several clinical tests to find a formula with the right amount of Vitamins, Minerals, etc. The FDA regularly checks facilities that make and sell the formula for your infant's safety.

Here is a list of places and ways you can find a formula:

1. Contact your local physician to hear their recommendations.
2. Post on Social Media to see if anyone has the formula you're looking for at their local stores.
3. Search for baby formula at a wholesale market. Check small stores where no one usually shops. Switch formula unless your baby is on a specific extensively hydrolyzed or amino-based formula.