Chinese Demand for Baby Milk Causes 'Ration' in UK British retailers are limiting purchases of baby milk powder to prevent customers from bulk-buying and exporting it to China for profit. Leading supermarket chains Tesco and Sainsbury's say they have started advising customers to buy no more than two tins of milk powder in each transaction. The British Retail Consortium said Wednesday other retailers are imposing similar limits to ensure there is enough stock for everyone wanting baby milk. Dairy manufacturer Danone said the increased demand is believed to be caused by unofficial exports to China to satisfy the needs of Chinese parents who want international brands for their babies. Baby formula made by foreign brands is highly prized in China, where babies have died from Chinese-made milk powder contaminated with melamine.