There are some major happenings going on in the United States at the moment.
Happenings which will likely impact the supply chain and economy in upcoming months.
In reality, it will likely impact much more than that too...
Port closures and strikes are causing significant disruptions already to the flow of critical goods, including food, baby formula, and medical supplies, particularly on the East and Gulf coasts of the U.S. The situation largely due to the ongoing strikes by dockworkers, have halted operations at some of the nation's busiest ports. On October 3, negotiations were reached and the strike was suspended with return to work the following day. (https://www.nytimes.com/2024/10/03/business/economy/port-strike-suspended.html) The supply chain impact remains though. While I am grateful this was resolved much quicker than anticipated, the reality is still there as well. We will see impacts on the consumer side. Here is what is likely to be impacted:
Impact on Food and Formula: Ports handle a major portion of food and baby formula imports, and the closures have already begun affecting availability. Perishable goods, such as fresh fruits and vegetables, are particularly at risk as these products rely on timely transportation to prevent spoilage. Already, some grocery stores are reporting shortages in items like citrus fruits, berries, and seafood, which are typically shipped through these impacted ports. As these essential goods sit in containers waiting to be unloaded, grocery stores and suppliers are experiencing delays. The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is closely monitoring the situation and working with manufacturers to mitigate shortages of infant formula. Just-in-time inventory practices have left many retailers with limited reserves of critical products.
Infant formula specifics:
Brands known to be impacted by this strike: Kendamil ;
Brands that have made statements of limited impact: Bobbie, Baby's Only, ByHeart, Happy Family Organics/ , Similac
Formula manufacturers and distributors are in close contact with government agencies like the FDA and HHS to address any shortfalls. However, the strikes may still cause delays that could push availability down at a time when families need consistent access to infant nutrition.
Impact on Medical Supplies: The strikes also impact the availability of life-saving medications and medical devices. Over 90% of containerized pharmaceutical imports are handled by the affected ports, and a disruption of even a few days can lead to shortages in essential drugs like insulin, chemotherapy medications, and anti-rejection drugs used by organ transplant patients. Health professionals have raised alarms about the potential consequences if the interruptions persist, as hospitals and pharmacies often keep only a few days' worth of these critical supplies on hand.
While government agencies are working to identify and address shortages, consumers are advised to consider stocking up on key medications, if possible, to prevent running out. Moreover, the effects of the strikes may ripple through the entire medical supply chain, exacerbating existing shortages and leading to potential delays in patient care.
Practical Recommendations & Resources:
With the impact of port closures likely to persist, here are a few practical steps citizens can take to prepare:
Plan for Shortages: If you rely on specific foods or formula brands that may be affected by the port closures, try to stock up on a reasonable supply, but avoid panic buying, which can worsen shortages. Aim for a few weeks’ worth, especially for baby formula or specialized medical diets.
Look for Local Alternatives: Support local farmers' markets and producers, particularly for fresh produce. Many communities have local food systems that are less dependent on imports and may offer seasonal produce as a substitute.
Use Substitute Formula Brands: If your preferred brand of baby formula is unavailable, consult with a healthcare provider to explore safe alternative brands. Many stores offer generic versions that meet the same nutritional standards.
Stay Informed: Keep an eye on local news regarding specific shortages in your area. Retailers will likely provide updates on stock availability, and some may offer delivery or pickup options for essential goods.
Consider Preordering Medications: If you or a loved one rely on medication or specialized nutritional products (like infant formula for medical purposes), try to order in advance or request a 90-day supply from your pharmacy to prevent interruptions
With continued uncertainty surrounding the strikes, these steps can help mitigate some of the stress surrounding the availability of essential goods, especially for families with young children or specific dietary needs.
TLDR:
Key Details on the 2024 Dock Strike
🔴 What’s happening? 450,000 dockworkers on strike, affecting U.S. East and Gulf Coast ports.
🚢 Ports impacted: 50% of the nation’s ocean shipping halted, including vital trade routes for food, formula, and medical supplies.
⏳ Duration: A two-week strike could lead to months of recovery, with significant delays expected into 2025 (McKnight's Senior Living).
Effects on Essential Goods
🍼 Baby formula & food shortages: Imports delayed, increasing risks of shortages in infant formula and fresh produce.
💊 Medical supplies at risk: Limited impact so far, but potential delays for life-saving medicines if strike persists
🔍 What can you do? Stock up moderately, explore local alternatives or comparable items, and stay informed about shortages!
Meanwhile, back at the ranch...
Hurricane Helene has had significant impacts across multiple states in the southeastern U.S. This storm has led to widespread destruction and additional disruptions. Most heavily though, this storm has devastated lives. As I send my love, prayers, and resources, here are a few things to know about the hurricane and it's impact.
Evacuations & Power Outages: Several states, including Alabama, Georgia, and the Carolinas, faced evacuation orders due to flooding, high winds, and power outages. Thousands of people were displaced, and many areas still rely on generators for power
Supply Chain & Transport Disruptions: Ports, roads, and railways were severely impacted, causing significant delays in the transport of essential goods, including food and medical supplies. This has created bottlenecks in replenishing store shelves with formula, baby food, and other essential medical items
Medical Facilities: Hospitals and medical centers have been pushed to their limits, with several facilities experiencing power loss and resource strain. There are reports of difficulty accessing critical medicines and treatments due to transport delays
Economic Impact: Hurricane Helene’s economic impact is expected to be substantial, with FEMA and the IRS offering tax relief to affected individuals and businesses. Many businesses face operational challenges due to damage and staff shortages
Recommendations for us as Citizens:
Stock Up: Keep essential supplies like food, formula, medications, and water handy in case of further disruptions. Please do NOT overstock or hoard, as this makes the scenario worse. (See some tips on what moderate stocking looks like below!)
Check Local Resources: Monitor local news and FEMA updates for relief centers, food distribution points, and medical services.
Volunteer: If safe, assist in community relief efforts or donate to organizations providing aid to impacted areas.
Tax Relief: If you are affected, make use of the IRS’s tax filing extensions and other available financial relief programs
This hurricane’s lasting effects on transportation, food supplies, and medical access will take time to resolve, so staying informed and prepared is crucial.
TLDR:
Hurricane Helene - Key Impacts 🌪️
States affected: Alabama, Georgia, Carolinas, parts of Florida & Tennessee.
Evacuations: Widespread evacuations due to flooding and wind damage.
Power outages: Many areas still without power, relying on generators
Supply Chain & Medical Impacts
🚧 Road, port, and rail disruptions affecting transport of food, formula, and medical supplies.
🏥 Hospitals strained: Limited access to medications & treatments due to delays
What can you do?
Stock essential supplies.
Stay informed via local resources.
Use available tax relief if impacted
For those impacted by the port closures and Hurricane Helene,
there are several resources available to help:
1. Government Assistance:
FEMA: Provides disaster relief services, including emergency shelter, food, and financial aid. You can apply for assistance at FEMA's website.
IRS Tax Relief: Affected residents in states impacted by Hurricane Helene, such as Alabama, Georgia, and the Carolinas, have extended tax deadlines until May 2025. More information can be found (IRS)ps://www.irs.gov/newsroom/irs-provides-relief-for-helene-various-deadlines-postponed-to-may-1-2025-part-or-all-of-7-states-qualify).
2. Food and Formula Shortages:
Food Banks & Community Centers: Many local food banks are offering free or low-cost food and formula. You can locate a nearby food bank using Feeding America’s website. (https://www.feedingamerica.org/find-your-local-foodbank )
WIC (Women, Infants, and Children): If formula shortages impact you, WIC offers assistance for low-income families to access formula. Contact your local WIC office for updates.
Utilize Facebook, local mom groups, friends of friends, the local church, the YMCA, the library, etc. for additional connections and resources. Feeling really stuck?! Email me! (Babyfoodandfun@gmail.com)
For breastmilk: Check out Share The Drop (https://sharethedrop.com/) or It's My Leche (https://itsmyleche.com/)
https://www.milkhoneylactationservices.com/hurricane-helene
3. Medical Supply Shortages:
Hospitals & Pharmacies: If you are struggling to obtain medications, some hospitals and larger pharmacies may have emergency supplies. Contact your healthcare provider for guidance on alternatives or shortages.
Local Clinics: Check local community health centers, which may offer emergency medical services or alternative medications.
4. Evacuation and Shelter (Hurricane Helene):
Red Cross: The American Red Cross offers emergency shelter and disaster relief services. You can find a nearby shelter or donate at Red Cross's website.
Local Emergency Services: Stay tuned to local radio or social media for updates on shelters, food distribution points, and other assistance programs in your area.
These resources can provide critical aid during times of need, especially for families dealing with food, medical, or shelter emergencies.
*As I was writing this article, I saw this urgent posting from Milk+Honey Lactaction Services.
My heart sank. I've been in the position of providing aid during hurricane relief before. I absolutely understand what is being said. Now add in the impact of so many young ones?!....
I've decided to take a collection of donations down this week. I will be leaving southern Ohio ~midday Monday and I hope to provide even a tiny bit of relief to these communities with formula, bottles, breastfeeding equipment, and maybe most importantly.... WATER.
Let's do something to help. Let's bring nutrition to families in crisis. Let's feed babies.
How You Can Help:
Donate feeding supplies:
Unused and unopened formula,
Bottles, Nipples (can be used as long as in decent condition and complete! * I can take care of assessing / sanitizing bottles*),
Breast Pumps (manual and electric)
Generators
Storage bags for breastmilk
Coolers/Ice Packs
Baby Water
and other infant feeding items are greatly needed.
Monetary donations: Help us purchase formula, water, and support families in crisis with a financial contribution. (see links below).
Spread the word: Share our mission with your network to help amplify our call for support.
This devastating crisis has taken so much away from so many families. We believe that every child deserves nutrition, safe nutrition, even in the midst of crisis. Your support and attention to this can help make that possible. With your help, we can provide families with the critical resources they need.
Monetary Donations can be made at the linked site: above, https://www.milkhoneylactationservices.com/hurricane-helene
or on my website: www.babyfoodandfun.com - there is a donation form on the homepage.
Physical Donations can be left between hours of 8am-8pm at:
4451 Ebenezer Road, Cincinnati OH 45248
*There will be a bin on the porch & yes, we have camera coverage on it*
So, what IS a moderate supply of items?
For stocking baby formula and medical supplies, it’s best to aim for a moderate supply that covers a few weeks without overstocking. Here are some general guidelines:
Baby Formula:
Aim for a 2-3 week supply to ensure you’re prepared for temporary disruptions but not contributing to shortages.
For formula-fed infants, this can vary based on age and consumption. A newborn may consume about 25-30 oz/day, whereas older babies may need 32 oz/day. Plan accordingly based on your baby’s needs.
Don’t forget to check expiration dates and store formula properly.
Medical Supplies:
For prescription medications, it's advisable to keep a 30-day supply if possible. Ask your healthcare provider or pharmacy if they can provide early refills or larger quantities in light of disruptions.
For medical devices (like oxygen, diabetic supplies, etc.), consult with your healthcare provider about obtaining a backup supply, especially if they are critical for daily functioning.
Essential Over-the-Counter Medications:
Stock a moderate supply of common over-the-counter medicines (pain relievers, allergy meds, etc.), just enough for 2-4 weeks.
General Tips:
Avoid panic buying to help everyone access what they need.
Stay updated on local supply chain conditions and resupply stores as needed without hoarding.
Consider shopping at stores you do not typically shop at:
Examples: Aldi, Whole Foods, Dollar General, the local mom & pop shops, specialty stores such as the local butcher, etc.
If you are concerned about how much to store, consult your healthcare provider or local pharmacy for personalized recommendations based on your family’s specific needs.
Practical Tips & Resources:
Since the formula shortage has unfortunately continued on + it is likely to worsen again before improving + we can clearly see how important total infant feeding education is, check out a resource I made- I've updated my infant formula comparables guide which categorizes each formula based on nutrient breakdown and other special features! It also has common terms to know when it comes to formula feeding!
Storage Guidelines
Wondering how long a bottle of breastmilk can remain at room temperature? Confused about how long prepared infant formula can stay in the refrigerator? Not sure about the storage guidelines for breastmilk and formula?
Check Out Our Shop For Resources!!
❤❤
Thank you for your support and love in this space! It means more to me than you will ever know.
I truly enjoy sharing this information and I hope you find the information provided valuable. If you do find this information helpful, I kindly ask that you consider sharing - via social media, word of mouth, email, etc. I would love to help support as many out there as I can! <3
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Thank you again for giving Baby Food & Fun, LLC a place to grow and flourish, just like our kids :)
Jessica Enderle, R.D., L.D.
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