TO: Illinois WIC Vendors
FROM: Stephanie Bess, M.S., R.D., LDN
Chief, Bureau of Family Nutrition
SUBJECT: Infant Formula Supply Issues
DATE: May 18, 2022
Illinois Department of Human Services, Bureau of Family Nutrition is aware of the recent issues with Infant Formula supplies that have affected the whole country. We are working very closely with our contract infant formula supplier, Mead Johnson, who has been very responsive and helpful throughout the issues that have arisen as a result of the Abbott formula recall in February 2022.
Mead Johnson has shared with us some of the recommendations that they have shared with retailers, and the Department is strongly encouraging that vendors implement these measures as much as they are able. These recommendations are to:
- Limit purchase quantities of small size powders to 2-3 cans per customer (WIC or non-WIC).
- As long as the limits imposed on WIC participants are not more stringent than the general public, these quantity limits may be imposed on WIC participants as well as the general public.
- Sell WIC small size powders only to consumers that are participants of the Illinois WIC program.
- While we understand that this may be difficult to implement, if a store chooses to do this, we request that signage be posted in the store to direct WIC customers to how to find their formula.
In an effort to help alleviate some of the concerns of our vendors, IL WIC Vendors will not be sanctioned if the minimum stock of infant formula is not maintained at all times through August 2022. We encourage our vendors to continue to maintain some stock of Enfamil Infant and Enfamil ProSobee for participants to purchase as you are able.
If you have any questions, we strongly recommend referring to the DHS WIC Vendor page (www.dhs.state.il.us/wicvendor) for up to date information and regular updates about the WIC Vendor Program. You may also reach out to our offices at DHS.WICVendor@illinois.gov or by phone at 844-901-0962 (leave a message with as much information as possible and we will call you back within 1 business day).
