Many parents have found themselves dejected with a common scenario recently- empty shelves where Kendamil baby formula once was. A host of caregivers have been unable to locate this popular infant nutrition option.
"I'm unable to secure it within my vicinity or for delivery," a desperate mother expressed. "I'm fretting because we have only half a can left and it is the only formula my child with special dietary needs has ever accepted." Yet, another distressed parent revealed: "It's sold out in ALL my nearby stores and isn't available online. Thought I had stumbled upon it via Instacart, only to have my order cancelled unexpectedly in the early hours."
The prime cause for public concern involves a Kendamil baby formula shortage occurring due to unforeseen demand surges and shipment delays. The shortage has compelled many parents to find alternative sources or possibly even change brands altogether.
The company is acutely aware of the issue and has implemented measures to restock the formula as fast as possible. Kendamil is reportedly increasing supply, expediting shipments, and closely collaborating with retail partners to alleviate the issue.
Despite the current shortage, it's expected that the situation won't linger for long. Kendamil's management team announced in mid-October that Kendamil Goat should return next week and Kendamil Organic the following week. Kendamil Classic, however, is predicted to take a bit longer and will hopefully start appearing on shelves again in early November.
Nonetheless, you might be wondering, why is Kendamil so strikingly absent from store shelves right now? The primary reason, as per Kendamil representatives, is simply a surge in demand.
"In the short span of two years after entering the market, demand for Kendamil increased by over six times. Just last week, we provided our retail partners with more formula than ever in our history. And this wasn't a temporary surge," exclusive information provided by Kendamil’s co-founder Will McMahon to concerned caregivers.
A port strike, which concluded on the 4th of October, has also contributed to the shortages. Although the strike has ended, there is still a significant backlog of containers that are impeding the replenishment process, leading to scarce formula supplies.
McMahon assured, "We understand how stressful it can be for parents when they can't find the formula they rely on, and we're working tirelessly to resolve this."
Whilst Kendamil formulas may not be available on store shelves right now, the company is making all efforts to resolve the issue rapidly. McMahon revealed, "We took additional measures to direct Kendamil formula to alternative ports across North America, a process that started even before the strike. However, these alternative routes are also experiencing delays."
Despite these setbacks, shipments are leaving European ports as per the standard schedule. Still, it might take a few more weeks for widespread availability to be resumed.
"We are relieved to state that shipments are now finally starting to clear customs," reassured McMahon. This would allow the products to find their way to the warehouse before finally reaching grocery store shelves.
In light of these developments, if you are a parent relying on Kendamil for your baby's feeding needs and unable to find it, healthcare professionals have a suggested alternative. Pediatrician Whitney Casares, M.D., recommends that the safest option is to look for a similar commercially available formula.
Kendamil's customer support team can also provide specific recommendations based on your child’s requirements and your family's budget constraints. Experts urge that if you still have some of the original Kendamil formula, a gradual transition to the new brand is the optimal course to prevent any gastrointestinal discomfort for your child.
It is not unusual for kids to have some side effects when transitioning to a new formula, such as increased gas and spit-up, says Dr. Casares. More severe side effects could include vomiting, blood in stool, or refusal to feed. It is always recommended to contact your child's pediatrician immediately, should you notice any of these.
Dr. Casares empathetically reassures parents, "Though it can be scary to navigate a formula shortage, remember that these shortages are usually temporary. Thankfully, there are a variety of formula alternatives available on the market."