Ottawa Public Health report reveals costly infant formula deepening food insecurity, with one in four families struggling to afford basic nutrition.
Rising Infant Formula Costs Fuel Ottawa Food Insecurity
Growing Challenge for Ottawa Families
A new report from Ottawa Public Health (OPH) shows that one in four families in the city is experiencing some form of food insecurity. The findings, part of the 2025 Monitoring Food Affordability in Ottawa report, mark a 10 per cent increase in food-insecure households since 2020, reflecting the growing strain of inflation on local families.
Formula Expenses Exceed Support Levels
For the first time, OPH examined the monthly cost of infant formula, calculating an average of $189—well above the $145 monthly benefit provided through the Ontario Works Special Diet Allowance.
“It’s another piece of data showing financial challenges and why people can’t make ends meet,” said Emily Coja, a senior public health nutritionist who led the research.
Gaps in Nutrition Support Programs
The report also found that additional food costs linked to pregnancy and breastfeeding far exceed current social assistance. Pregnant women spend an average of $96 extra per month, while breastfeeding mothers spend $78, yet the Pregnancy/Breastfeeding Nutrition Allowance offers only $40. OPH concluded that this gap leaves many new parents struggling to afford adequate nutrition.
Decline in Breastfeeding Rates
Exclusive breastfeeding rates have dropped sharply—from 66 per cent in 2013 to 48 per cent in 2024. Registered nurse Kristina Dunkley explained that barriers such as physical difficulties, psychological stress, and workplace pressures often make breastfeeding unfeasible.
“Formula or breast milk are the only options for infants under 12 months,” she said, noting that access to affordable formula is a health equity issue.
Impact on Marginalized Communities
The report also highlights disparities in food insecurity. Nearly 47 per cent of Black households and 40 per cent of Indigenous households in Ottawa experience food insecurity—figures tied to systemic racism and the lasting effects of colonialism.
Belal El-Cheikh, food security manager at Tungasuvvingat Inuit, said formula shortages are frequent. “We often have to use our own funds to purchase formula, spending tens of thousands of dollars each month,” he said.
Families Facing Difficult Trade-Offs
Some families unable to afford formula may introduce solid foods earlier or switch to whole milk—choices that can compromise infant nutrition, Dunkley warned. “We know those options don’t meet the complete nutrient needs of infants,” she added.
Next Steps for Policymakers
The Ottawa Board of Health will review the report on Monday. Recommended actions include raising awareness about food insecurity, expanding collaboration with community partners, and reassessing financial supports for low-income families.
Public health experts hope the data will spur policy changes ensuring nutritious food and infant formula remain accessible to every Ottawa household.
