North America and Infant Formula

I am a student of the sociocultural anthropology undergraduate program at the University of Toronto. I am conducting a small anthropological media analysis to analyze the chain through which Casein and infant formula travels from its point of production, through distribution, to consumption in North America. For the purpose of this survey, I am concerned with how North American parents and caregivers make sense of their consumption of casein and infant formula.

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1. I use infant formula to feed my baby because:

I am unable to produce sufficient breast milk

I am unable to breastfeed my child

I am unable to feed my child solely with breastmilk (I combine breastfeeding with infant formula feeding)

Personal preference

Other (please specify)

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2. Were you ever presented with ready-to-use formula samples from a medical professional or formula company?

Yes

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3. Which of the following brands (if any) have you frequently purchased?

Enfamil

Similac

Gerber Good Start

Bobbie

Other (please specify)

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4. Why this brand?

It was recommended by friends or family

A medical professional instructed me to use it

It is the only one in stock

Other (please specify)

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5. How do you feel about relying on infant formula rather than breastfeeding?

I wish I could breastfeed instead

I feel negatively about it (some participants mentioned feelings of shame, embarrassment, failure, etc)

I am glad I rely on formula

Other (please specify)

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6. Did you experience any stigma for your feeding choices? (From friends, family, medical professionals, etc.)

Very often

Often

Occasionally

Once or twice

Never

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7. How have the formula shortages affected you?

My mental health has been affected

My financial stability has been affected

My child's physical wellbeing has been affected

Other (please specify)

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8. What strategies or resources have you depended on to cope?

Online formula search forums

Family members abroad

I have visited the hospital

I switched formula brands

Other (please specify)

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9. How likely are you to choose a casein-dominant formula?

Very likely

Likely

Neither likely nor unlikely

Unlikely

Very unlikely