Baby Formulas: The High Cost of Nutrition Hits Nigerian Families Hard
By Precious Nwonu for LightRay!
The Impact of the Rising Cost of Child Formula on Nigerian Families
Child formula, also known as infant formula, is a specially designed milk product that provides essential nutrients for babies who cannot be fully breastfed. It contains a blend of proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals to support a baby’s growth and development. Different types of formulas are available, including those made from cow’s milk, soy, or designed for babies with specific allergies or digestion issues.
Infant formulas like NAN, Lactogen, SMA Gold, Similac, etc. are important for infant nutrition because they provide the essential nutrients babies need to grow and stay healthy. They are a vital alternative for many families, especially when breastfeeding is not possible or sufficient. These formulas contain a balanced mix of proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals that support a baby’s brain development, bone growth, and overall health.
For mothers who cannot breastfeed due to medical, work, or personal reasons, formula serves as a safe and reliable alternative to ensure their babies get the nutrition they need during their critical early months of life.
According to Kristy, the Corporate Communication Officer of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), “Baby formula is what we regulate. We take premium on it because children, especially infants, are very tender, so we take regulation of food seriously.”
NAFDAC advises mothers on exclusive breastfeeding from 0-6 months, but for mothers who are unable to breastfeed their babies on health grounds or mothers who are deceased, the baby formula is regulated properly for them to feed on.
The cost of child formula has been increasing steadily over the years, creating financial strain for many families. Factors such as supply chain disruptions, inflation, and higher production costs have contributed to the price hikes. In some regions, the issue is worsened by shortages, making formula not only more expensive but also harder to find.
For low-income families, this can lead to difficult choices, as child formula is an essential product. Most child formulas in Nigeria are imported, and this significantly increases their cost. Import duties, taxes, and high shipping expenses make formula more expensive by the time it reaches the market.
Additionally, fluctuations in exchange rates between the Nigerian Naira and foreign currencies make it harder to keep prices stable. For locally produced formulas, the cost of raw materials is a major factor. Many of these materials, like milk powder, are still imported. High energy costs, transportation, and packaging further increase the overall cost of production.
Some nursing mothers shared their concerns about the high cost of baby formula in the country. Ogechi Ihegworo shared, “I spend around ₦60,000 each month on baby formula, depending on the local price. I’ve definitely noticed the increase in cost.”
Mrs. Chiamaka, a nursing mother, said the high cost of child formula is affecting her. “The price of the brand I use, Lactogen, keeps increasing drastically, and this affects my monthly budget.”
Biola Geoffrey shared, “I spend ₦52,000 a month for formula, which costs ₦13,000 each for my twins. The price increase is outrageous.”
Nigeria’s rising inflation rate affects almost every product, including child formula. Economic instability and frequent changes in fuel prices lead to higher transportation and distribution costs, which are passed on to consumers.
Emeritus Professor of Pediatrics at Prime Life Medical Care, Prof. Bede Ibe, discussed the impact of Nigeria’s economic situation on the high cost of infant formula. “Many mothers, and even some wealthy families, now find it hard to afford infant formula.”
To address this issue, Prof. Ibe encouraged mothers to practice exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months. After that, he recommended introducing complementary foods, such as well-prepared soft meals made from cereals like maize, sorghum, or millet, as well as soybeans.
There are very few local companies producing child formula, leading to a heavy reliance on foreign brands. This limited competition allows sellers to charge higher prices since families have fewer affordable options.
Factors like poor infrastructure, delays at ports, and road network challenges affect the smooth distribution of formula. These disruptions often lead to shortages, driving prices even higher due to increased demand.
Health Implications
Child formula provides essential nutrients that support a baby’s growth and development, especially when breast milk is not available. It helps build strong bones, develop the brain, and strengthen the immune system.
Babies who get the right formula can grow healthily and meet developmental milestones. Improper preparation of formulas, such as adding too much or too little water, can cause health issues.
Parents must carefully follow the instructions on the formula packaging. Some babies may have trouble digesting certain formulas, leading to issues like gas, constipation, or diarrhea.
Others may develop allergies, especially to cow’s milk-based formulas, which can cause symptoms like skin rashes or difficulty breathing. In such cases, switching to specialized formulas
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