Store brands and wholesale clubs offer safe, budget-friendly options that meet FDA standardsInfant formula represents a significant expense for families, costing thousands of dollars during a baby’s first year. However, Consumer Reports experts say there are safe ways to reduce costs without compromising nutrition.The Food and Drug Administration recently announced a new initiative to strengthen oversight of the formula industry, including increased testing for heavy metals and other contaminants. The announcement follows Consumer Reports findings of concerning contaminants in some infant formula samples.By six months of age, three out of four babies in the United States are drinking formula as part of their diet, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Consumer Reports has identified several strategies to make formula feeding more budget-friendly.Many store-brand infant formulas are manufactured by the same companies that produce name brands. All formulas sold in the United States must meet the same FDA nutrition standards. Parents should always check with their pediatrician before switching formulas.Shopping at wholesale clubs like Costco, Sam’s Club, or BJ’s can provide savings. Store brands like Kirkland from Costco and Member’s Mark from Sam’s Club scored highly in Consumer Reports’ recent formula contaminants tests. The findings demonstrate that safe infant formula can be produced at lower cost while meeting high standards.If approved by a pediatrician, powdered formula offers another cost-saving option. Powdered formula costs less than ready-to-feed varieties. Auto-delivery programs, such as Amazon’s Subscribe and Save, can reduce costs by 5 to 15 percent and include free shipping.However, Consumer Reports emphasizes critical safety guidelines. Parents should never dilute formula to save money. Diluting formula can reduce nutrient levels, affect a child’s growth and development, and even cause electrolyte imbalances that may lead to seizures.Consumer Reports also warns against making homemade formula. Babies require precise nutrition, and improper formulation can be dangerous to their health.While families can look for safe ways to save money on formula, Consumer Reports stresses that parents should never cut corners on their baby’s health. Read More