Parents are resorting to "unsafe" practices, such as watering down baby milk, to cope with rising costs, according to Moorside Baby Bank founder Megan Sinden. Sinden described families putting less powder into formula to make it last longer, a practice she called "quite dangerous."
Infant formula is designed to provide a precise balance of nutrients for babies who are not breastfed. Adding extra water alters this composition, potentially leading to nutrient deficiencies and reduced nutrient absorption. According to the National Childbirth Trust (NCT), this can result in poor weight gain, growth problems, and developmental delays. In more severe instances, excessive water in formula can cause immediate health issues due to a baby's inability to process the excess water safely.
The NCT also reported that nearly half of parents (48%) are facing increased financial struggles after having a baby. The organization emphasized that infant formula should always be prepared strictly according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Recent data from the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) indicates that the average retail price of some infant formula products has risen by over 25% in recent years. Sinden noted that baby milk is particularly difficult for her organization to receive as donations due to its high cost, with the baby bank often relying on grants to purchase formula.
Moorside Baby Bank, which opened in February 2025, has provided assistance to 226 families with essentials such as clothes, nappies, and baby wipes, primarily through community donations. Sinden called for a cap on the rising costs of formula, stating, "It's not a luxury item, it's a basic need for a baby."