Parents may feed an infant homemade formula for a number of reasons. If made improperly this formula can cause serious problems for the infant.
Reasons for preparing homemade formula:
(1) unable to breastfeed
(2) unable to obtain or afford commercial formula
(3) religious belief
(4) dietary beliefs (vegan, etc)
Sources of hazard:
(1) inadequate vitamin D supplementation
(2) use of unpasteurized cow, goat or other milk
(3) use of cow's milk
(4) deficiencies in micronutrients and minerals
(5) deficiencies in macronutrients
(6) excessive phosphorus
Problems with the formula may be compounded by neonatal malnutrition caused by maternal malnutrition.
