Using a Breastmilk Substitute
We acknowledge that individuals of all sex and gender identities/expressions may be in a feeding relationship with their baby. The term “breastfeeding” refers to feeding directly from the breast. Some individuals may use the term “chestfeeding” rather than “breastfeeding," or use “chest milk” rather than “breastmilk." The Health Unit recognizes that language is constantly evolving, and we strive to use gender-affirming language when talking about infant feeding and parenting.
Parents may consider formula feeding their baby for various personal or medical reasons. For parents who cannot breastfeed or have made an informed decision not to, properly prepared commercial infant formula is a safe alternative.
If you have made the decision to feed your baby infant formula, the following information can help you prepare to feed your baby infant formula safely:
- Health Canada must review all infant formulas before they can be sold on the Canadian market to make sure they are safe and contain all the nutrition a baby needs.
- Health Canada occasionally issues recalls for infant formula
- Check the label to see what kind of formula it is: read-to-feed, liquid concentrate, or powder.
- Read the directions on the package. Some formula needs water added. Use the exact amount of water listed. Too much or too little water or formula can make babies very sick.
- Check that the formula is not expired.
- Throw away any formula your baby does not drink.
- Use safe water to make formula. The water should not have harmful bacteria or high nitrate levels.
- Sterilize bottles, feeding supplies, and water used for formula for babies of any age. There is no clear research that shows when it is safe to stop. It is safest to sterilize water and bottle-feeding supplies for as long as your baby drinks formula.
- Store formula safely. Follow the directions on the package.
For further information on sterilization and preparation visit Best Start's Infant Formula: What You Need to Know.
Contact Us (Family Health Information Line) at 1-800-563-2808 ext. 5351.
Infant Feeding Survey
Thank you to everyone who agreed to take part in our Infant Feeding Survey.
We are no longer looking for new participants, but we will continue to contact those who have already agreed to take part. After we finish collecting and reviewing the information, we will share the results.
If you have any questions, please contact our Family Health Information Line at 705-474-1400, ext. 5351.