Central ND News

Senators John Hoeven and Gary Peters have introduced bipartisan legislation aimed at preventing future shortages of infant formula in the United States. This legislative move follows a serious incident of bacterial contamination at a Michigan manufacturing plant, which led to the deaths of nine infants and a nationwide shortage in 2022. The proposed bill seeks to enhance the oversight of infant formula production by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to secure the supply chain and ensure safety for American families.

"Access to safe infant formula is essential for families across the U.S., and as shortages in recent years have demonstrated, improvements are needed to ensure our nation continues to have a secure supply of this important product," stated Senator Hoeven. He emphasized that the legislation aims to strengthen market resilience against contamination while ensuring adequate supplies.

Senator Peters expressed his personal concern over the issue, stating, "As a father and grandfather, I was devastated for the parents who lost their children. Parents deserve to know with complete confidence that the formula they are giving their babies is safe." He highlighted that the bill would enable the FDA to test for dangerous bacteria proactively, thereby protecting children and preventing another widespread shortage.

The Protect Infant Formula from Contamination Act (PIFCA) proposes a three-pronged strategy:

1. Strengthening safety reporting and ensuring timely corrective action by mandating manufacturers test for Cronobacter or Salmonella in infant formula intended for consumption. Manufacturers must notify the FDA within one business day if contamination is detected, improving upon current laws where notification is only required after products leave company control.

2. Enhancing market resiliency through quarterly monitoring and reporting on in-stock rates by the FDA, in collaboration with other agencies like the U.S. Department of Agriculture, to maintain long-term market demand.

3. Increasing accountability and consultation by requiring progress reports on implementing strategies developed post-2022 recall, along with consulting industry experts on best practices for contamination mitigation and maximizing supply.