Baby formula shortage impacts Barbados

A government official has confirmed that Barbados has been impacted by the shortage of baby formula which originated in the United States.

CBC News spoke with the Minister of State in the Ministry of Foreign Trade and Business Development, Sandra Husbands.

For some background on this matter, the shortage stems from two issues. The first is the supply chain logistical challenges as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. These were compounded by the closure of Abbott Laboratories in the US, the manufacturing plant for Similac, following a product recall.

The company has since reached an agreement with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and once the FDA issues approval, Abbott can restart production within two weeks. The company however says it will take another six to eight weeks before the product is available on store shelves.

Minister Husbands says in Barbados’ case, only one particular brand of formula is in short supply. She further notes that Barbados has an adequate supply of other brands of baby formula.

Minister Husbands added that at the moment, no other food shortages have been reported to the Ministry.

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