The High Cost of Baby Formula: Parents Feel “Punished” for Not Breastfeeding
Parents across the UK are expressing frustration with the escalating prices of baby formula, feeling that they are being unfairly penalized for not breastfeeding. The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) found that formula prices have jumped between 18% and 36% from December 2021 to December 2023, with just three companies controlling over 90% of the UK market.
Current regulations prohibit retailers from advertising or offering discounts on infant formula, ostensibly to encourage breastfeeding. However, many parents and the parenting site Mumsnet argue that these restrictions have only driven up prices without increasing breastfeeding rates.
Clare Smyrell, unable to breastfeed due to medical reasons, spent £30 weekly on baby milk and resorted to online marketplaces to manage costs. She felt like a “failure” and believes the restrictions are unfair, stating, “You have offers on unhealthy adult food, but you can’t have offers on baby formula which is perfectly healthy.”
Natasha Kurzeja from London describes formula costs as “extortionate,” particularly challenging for parents who cannot breastfeed due to medical circumstances. She questions why parents must pay premium prices for an essential nutritional need, especially when medical prescriptions for babies under 12 months are free.
The CMA has suggested potential solutions, including:
– Better consumer education about formula
– Potentially introducing an NHS-branded formula sold at lower prices
However, a former industry insider warns that an NHS-branded product could trigger a “race to the bottom” in quality, with manufacturers competing solely on price.
Justine Roberts from Mumsnet criticizes the current approach, noting that the UK has some of the lowest breastfeeding rates globally. “The way it’s been regulated… simply hasn’t worked,” she says.
Parents like James Gilmartin, who has nine-month-old twins, are particularly impacted. With specialized formula costing £14 per 800g tub and requiring two and a half tubs weekly, his family spends over £100 monthly on baby milk. He describes the promotional ban as “completely disgusting and verging on discrimination.”
Nelson Dean, another parent, suggests that instead of restricting promotions, the government should provide financial assistance for essential baby needs, especially given the rising cost of living.
The experiences of these parents highlight a broader issue: the financial burden of infant nutrition and the complex challenges surrounding breastfeeding. While the original intent of restricting formula promotions was to support breastfeeding, the current approach appears to be creating additional stress for parents who cannot or choose not to breastfeed.
The ongoing debate calls for a more nuanced approach that supports all parents, regardless of their feeding choices, and ensures that essential nutrition remains accessible and affordable.
