30/04/2026
The Strait of Hormuz has been closed for nine weeks. The UK is expected to be the worst-hit major economy. Government sources are already warning of crippling shortages of fuel and medicines - and the official response so far is to monitor supplies and tell people not to panic.
Nobody is talking about what this means for formula-fed babies.
Here’s what you need to know.
There is no government emergency plan for infant formula. No strategic reserve. Food banks cannot legally accept or distribute it.
The market is controlled by three manufacturers accounting for over 90% of UK supply.
Formula depends on global ingredients - vitamin and mineral premixes, vegetable oils, specialist additives - that run through the same supply chains now under active pressure. British-made formula still depends on imported micronutrients. No brand is fully insulated.
Supplies are already depleting from existing stocks. Even if the strait reopened today, analysts estimate 4-6 weeks to stabilise and 8-13 weeks to return to normal.
For the general population this means price rises and less variety on shelves. For a family with a formula-dependent baby - especially one on specialist formula for CMPA, reflux, or prematurity - there is no safe alternative, no government backstop, and no safety net.
If your baby is on specialist formula, contact your GP today about contingency.
Do not water down formula under any circumstances - it causes serious harm.
If you’re pregnant and thinking about feeding choices - breastfeeding is the only option right now that doesn’t depend on a supply chain under active pressure. That’s information you have a right to have before your baby arrives.
Getting breastfeeding established takes support - ideally in place before birth, not after.
I’m opening free online antenatal breastfeeding support groups and relactation support groups for anyone who needs them.
DM me ANTENATAL or RESTART to find out more.