Current:Home > ScamsHere's what the FDA says contributed to the baby formula shortage crisis -Ascend Finance Compass
Here's what the FDA says contributed to the baby formula shortage crisis
View
Date:2025-04-15 12:42:58
The Food and Drug Administration listed more than a dozen factors contributing to the national baby formula shortage earlier this year, but stopped short of attributing blame to a specific individual or agency.
An internal review of how the agency handled the crisis cited a lack of training and outdated information technology as two of the 15 reasons behind the critical baby formula shortage. The report said it couldn't find a "single action" to explain why the formula crisis occurred.
The internal review was conducted by Steven M. Solomon, director of the FDA's Center for Veterinary Medicine, who said in a statement that he identified five major areas of need in his review: upgraded information technology to exchange data during an emergency; updated staffing, training and equipment; updated emergency response systems; an assessment of the infant formula industry; and a better scientific understanding of cronobacter — the bacteria that caused the shortage.
There were other factors that led to the formula crisis, Solomon said — such as the limited number of formula manufacturers and issues with the ingredient supply chain and product distribution — that need to be addressed outside of the FDA.
"Simply put, if the FDA is expected to do more, it needs more," Solomon said in a statement. "As the agency evaluates its workforce needs related to infant formula regulation and oversight, we recommend that it utilize the appropriations process to help secure the authorities and resources needed."
Last February, baby formula manufacturer Abbott initiated a voluntary recall after consumers reported cases of cronobacter, a bacterial infection especially dangerous for infants, in products manufactured at a facility in Sturgis, Mich. The shortage forced parents to hunt for formula, as markets and retail stores struggled to keep up with demand.
Abbott said in an August news release that it had restarted production at the Sturgis facility, and that products should begin shipping in late September or early October.
The FDA also admitted in its findings that it — and other federal agencies — "do not have the authority, expertise, or resources to manage supply chain issues and shortages of critical food products." In order to address this, Solomon recommends the government work with federal agencies to establish roles and responsibilities for managing critical food product supply chains.
veryGood! (47)
Related
- Global Warming Set the Stage for Los Angeles Fires
- The northern lights could appear over parts of US Friday night: Where to watch for auroras
- Jennifer Lopez cancels This is Me ... Now tour to spend time with family: I am completely heartsick
- Fact checking Trump's remarks after historic conviction in hush money trial
- Could Bill Belichick, Robert Kraft reunite? Maybe in Pro Football Hall of Fame's 2026 class
- 'Knives Out' 3 new cast reveals include Jeremy Renner, Kerry Washington: What to know
- Olympic gold medalist Katie Ledecky says faith in anti-doping policies at 'all-time low'
- The ANC party that freed South Africa from apartheid loses its 30-year majority in landmark election
- Juan Soto to be introduced by Mets at Citi Field after striking record $765 million, 15
- 'Knives Out' 3 new cast reveals include Jeremy Renner, Kerry Washington: What to know
Ranking
- Romantasy reigns on spicy BookTok: Recommendations from the internet’s favorite genre
- US gymnastics championships highlights: Simone Biles cruising toward another national title
- Dance Moms Alum Kelly Hyland Reveals How Her Kids Are Supporting Her Through Cancer Treatments
- With strawberries and goats, a ‘farmastery’ reaches out to its neighbors
- Mets have visions of grandeur, and a dynasty, with Juan Soto as major catalyst
- The Top 12 Must-Have Lululemon Gifts for Father's Day 2024
- What was Trump convicted of? Details on the 34 counts and his guilty verdict
- Marian Robinson, mother of Michelle Obama, dies at 86
Recommendation
2 killed, 3 injured in shooting at makeshift club in Houston
Nevada State Primary Election Testing, Advisory
Missy Elliott is ditching sweets to prepare to tour, says her dog is 'like my best friend'
Eiza González Defends Jennifer Lopez After Singer Cancels Tour
'Squid Game' without subtitles? Duolingo, Netflix encourage fans to learn Korean
Kansas City Chiefs visit President Joe Biden at White House to celebrate Super Bowl win
Swimmer Katie Ledecky on athlete doping scandals: I think our faith in some of the systems is at an all-time low
Nelly Korda among shocking number of big names who miss cut at 2024 U.S. Women's Open