Vow to boost NZ baby formula supply

THE MAKERS of a popular Kiwimade baby formula are doubling capacity to Australian and New Zealand markets after suppliers were left high and dry.

Several New South Wales supermarkets and pharmacies ran out of Karicare and Aptamil products this month.

Worried parents struggled to access Karicare Aptamil Gold, one of the most popular infant formulas in Australia. Shortages of Bellamy’s Organic formula were also reported.

Safety concerns over the quality of milk products in China has driven the demand Zealand-made goods.

Chinese customers have been stocking up on Karicare formula to ship to China, Australian media reported.

At least six babies died in China after consuming formula containing the toxic industrial compound, melamine, in 2008.

High levels of mercury were also found in infant formula produced by Chinese dairy giant Yili last year.

Nutricia said it wanted to ensure parents that while there was a supply shortage of its products in some areas, enough was still available to meet demand.

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‘‘There has been an increased demand for products that are manufactured in New Zealand following food safety and quality concerns in overseas markets,’’ Nutricia said.

‘‘This has led to greater demand for Karicare and Aptamil products in both Australia and New Zealand.’’

The company also said Australian customers had switched to Karicare Aptamil Gold from other products recently.

Frustrated new parents were forced to visit multiple supermarkets and pharmacies to search for the products and face the prospect of upsetting their baby by chang- ing brands, reported.

Shortages were not expected to hit New Zealanders as Nutricia had increased investment and production over the past three years. ‘‘We have gone from making 5000 tonnes of Karicare and Aptamil products to 20,000 tonnes each year.’’

Nutricia said it was also working with suppliers to increase capacity for both countries this year.

It would not confirm whether a permanent supply to China was being secured. ‘‘Our key priority is to ensure we are able to satisfy all Australian and New Zealand mums with the highest quality products.’’

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