Little Village's response to the high cost of infant formula

High cost of baby formula forcing families into impossible choices

At Little Village, we see firsthand the devastating impact of soaring formula prices on families struggling to make ends meet. The recent report from the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) confirms what parents have been telling us for years: the cost of infant formula is simply too high, forcing many to make impossible choices. We’re calling for urgent action to ensure all babies get the nutrition they need.

Sophie Livingstone MBE, chief executive for Little Village baby banks said:

“No parent should have to choose between feeding their baby and making ends meet, yet the extortionate cost of baby formula is making this a grim reality for many. Nearly 1 in 10 families supported by Little Village have resorted to watering down formula just to make it last longer – a desperate measure which combined with high housing, energy and food costs, are yet another unbearable burden for struggling parents.

“The cost of baby formula is simply too high and the government must step in with clear guidance that allows baby banks to safely supply formula to those in need. Every child deserves access to the essential nutrition they need to grow and thrive – families need solutions, not impossible choices.”