Baby formula shortage: Parents scramble as problem grows

MILWAUKEE - Parents are scouring store shelves in search of baby formula. A recall and supply chain issues have caused shortages nationwide.

The problem has been amplified in the past few weeks. Parents are making it part of their daily routines to go to stores in search of formula that seems impossible to find.

For the past 11 months, little Reavy has brought so much joy to Emily Boehme. The first-time mom has been focused on helping her little one grow.

SIGN UP TODAY: Get daily headlines, breaking news emails from FOX6 News

"There’s all this pressure to be a great parent, and part of that is making sure they’re fed," Boehme said.

Recently, it has been harder and harder to make sure her baby is getting everything she needs.

Baby formula recall, shortages prompt rationing at Milwaukee-area CVS and Walgreens stores

"This is our last cannister of formula. It’s around $47," she said.

In February, Abbott was forced to shut down its largest formula manufacturing plant due to contamination concerns. Supply chain problems have contributed to the growing shortage. It is such a big problem, the White House is weighing in.

FREE DOWNLOAD: Get breaking news alerts in the FOX6 News app for iOS or Android.

"Ensuring the availability of these products is also a priority for the FDA, and they're working around the clock to address any possible shortage," said White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki.

The FDA announced it is working with manufacturers to increase supply. Boehme wants to see a solution soon, so she can get back to focusing on what's most important.

"I’ve gone to, I think, five Targets, three Costcos. I stop at Metro Market every day or Walgreens on the way home from work," said Boehme. "I would love to stop looking for formula every day after work."

Pediatricians urge parents who can't find formula to contact doctor's offices or food banks. They urge against watering down formula to stretch it or trying to make it from scratch.