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Infant Formula Vanishes in Gaza, Newborns Fed Harmful Substitutes

With formula prices soaring past $100 under the blockade, families are grinding legumes and herbs into dangerous pastes

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Overview

  • Gaza markets have run out of infant formula and the few cans available sell for more than US$100, making them unaffordable for most families.
  • Israel’s ongoing blockade and repeated delays in aid approvals have stalled formula deliveries through key crossings.
  • Maternal malnutrition across the territory has left many women unable to breastfeed, intensifying reliance on external infant nutrition.
  • In desperate attempts to prevent starvation, caregivers are feeding babies harmful mixtures of ground legumes, herbs, animal feed and sand.
  • Gaza health authorities have confirmed at least 159 hunger-related deaths, including 90 children, as security incidents and logistical hurdles continue to hamper relief efforts.