Baby Formula From U.K., Australia Shipping To RI Stores

RHODE ISLAND — Rhode Island families may be see a little relief from the national baby formula shortage this week, Gov. Dan McKee said.

McKee said the FDA notified the Rhode Island Department of health (RIDOH) that baby formula from the United Kingdom and Australia is approved and determined to be a healthy alternate formula for use in the United States.

The first bath of shipments from the two countries is expected to be in Rhode Island Target stores this week, McKee said.

"We are grateful that the United Kingdom and Australia's formula manufacturers were able to make these products available to families here in Rhode Island and the United States, through the President’s Operation Fly Formula," McKee said.

The first batch of formula includes Kendamil Classic, Kendamil organic formula, and seven types of Bubs brand formula.

"Although the labels look a little different, this formula has been approved by the federal government and is safe for parents to use," said RIDOH Interim Director James McDonald. "This is just the first batch of formula that will be available soon in retail stores. More is coming. Please buy just what you need, as we want to assure that everyone has the chance to buy some."

Anyone with questions about which formula to use should call RIDOH’s health information line at 401-222-5960 or their child’s pediatrician.