More than 30 online and brick-and-mortar retailers across the state received a warning Friday from New York Attorney General Letitia James to stop speculating and overcharging for baby formula, following several complaints from consumers about unreasonable price increases.
Due to recalls and supply chain disruptions, there has been a shortage of baby formula across the country and this has caused the product to surge.
In a statement, the Prosecutor’s Office reported that it received several complaints from buyers. A consumer reported that a 19.8-ounce can of Enfamil Nutramigen formula, which normally retails for $44.99, was selling at an Erie County store for $59.99. Another shopper said a Bronx retailer was selling a 32-ounce bottle of ready-to-use Enfamil NeuroPro for $17.99 when it previously sold for $11.99.
New York’s price gouging regulations prohibit merchants from charging excessive prices for essential goods or services during abnormal market disruptions.
“It is inconceivable that some retailers are taking advantage of a national shortage of baby formula while parents struggle to find food for their children,” James said in the statement.
“In the midst of this crisis, families already have enough to worry about and they shouldn’t have to worry about price gouging. We are warning all retailers that New York will not tolerate price gouging on baby formula, and I encourage anyone who witnesses this speculation to continue to report to my office.”
The State Attorney General’s office encourages parents who are having difficulty finding formula to contact their child’s doctor before attempting to dilute the formula or prepare their own, as both can be potentially dangerous to a child. To report the increase in prices of baby formula in any physical establishment or online, you can call 1800-771-7755.
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