An infant formula shortage began impacting Kentucky families in November 2021. The shortage started because of pandemic-related supply chain issues. In February 2022, an Abbott Nutrition plant in Sturgis, Michigan closed due to sanitation and safety concerns. This facility being one of the largest formula production facilities in the country exacerbated the shortage. The closure deeply affected Kentucky because it produced brands of formula that many families access through the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (known as WIC). According to Datasembly, the out-of-stock rate in Kentucky at the end of May reached 77%.  

Increasingly bare shelves had families in Kentucky scrambling to get accurate information and resources to provide infants safe, wholesome nutrition. Family and Consumer Science agents recognized dangerous misinformation circulating on social media and by word of mouth in local communities. To support agents in disseminating evidence-based recommendations from national authorities on infant nutrition, health, and safety, Dr. Courtney Luecking, Extension Specialist for Nutrition and Health who specializes in maternal and child nutrition, created social media posts. Posts included tips for safely navigating the shortage, a video talking through five of the most frequently asked questions, and links to national authorities. Agents shared families felt at a loss because most advice in the media was what not do, which still had them wondering what to do. In turn, Dr. Luecking also drafted a web-based document to address all commonly questions and provide suggestions safe alternatives for dangerous advice being circulated in local communities.

In early May, a social media infographic with suggestions for locating formula and dispelling the frequently shared advice to make formula at home or serve fresh animal milk reached 32,086 people. Of those who saw the post, 1,929 people clicked on a link to the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics site with in-depth infant formula safety resources. Later in May, Dr. Luecking recorded an 11-minute video to talk through frequently asked questions and to provide actionable tips in place of dangerous information promoted by the public. Within days of posting, the video had been viewed more than 1,300 times. In total, the social media post reached 5,398 people. Of those who saw the post, 245 clicked on the link to access the web-based document providing additional information and resources. 

In times of crisis, people scramble for information. Oftentimes misinformation circulates most easily. With the infant formula shortage, Family and Consumer Science agents were able to be local voice in providing evidence-based recommendations and resources to support families in safely navigating a stressful time.