Do boxes of formula powder really go off?

[teacher123]

DS 7 1/2 months has finally started drinking formula, but currently only drinks the ready made stuff. I bought a couple of boxes of powder to try about 2 months ago which he refused. Obviously ready made stuff costs a fortune and would like to try him again on the powder. But the boxes say that they go off after 4 weeks of being open... I would really like to use them up as they cost about a tenner each! Will of course throw them away if there really is a risk. Any advice? Thanks.

Hmmm, I wouldn't risk it. I mean, at 7.5mo, your DS's digestive system is stronger than a newborns. But I tend to follow recommendations with formula by the letter as they can be organisms in there that, if not made with boiling water (over 70 degrees) can be harmful, i.e. organisms that can cause tummy bugs. My worry is that something would upset the baby's tummy if the powder was off, IYSWIM.

I just saw my HV and she said the same so have ditched it. I made one portion this morning (with 70 degree water etc) to make sure he'd actually drink the stuff, and am going to ditch them now. I've just bought some new ones (on offer in boots!) thank you

Glad you ditched it. Worth also bearing in mind that the nutrients in formula deteriorate over time (so formula which is nearing its use by date is not so nutritious as stuff which has been freshly manufactured).

That's interesting! I have to say that I am counting down the months until he can just have normal milk, he has been a very reluctant formula drinker and I have tipped pints of the stuff down the sink... It's such a waste of money!