Evaluation of Feeding Practices in Latin American Infants at a Medical Home in Austin, Texas

The purpose of this study is to determine the methods of formula preparation and feeding practices in Latin American households in the first 12 months of life. There is limited published information on the feeding practices of infants in disadvantaged households, and still less information is available regarding disadvantaged Latin American households. Studies have shown that certain feeding practices such as diluting infant formula, warming bottles in a microwave, or storing partially used bottles in the refrigerator can be dangerous for the infant. Previous pilot data in other states have documented that up to 15-21% of parents dilute infant formula. Motives for doing so included an attempt to avoid infant hunger, save money, or make formula last longer.