Powder dispensing apparatus

A powder dispensing apparatus (1) for dispensing a powder (46) either with or without a liquid (82) is presented. The powder dispensing apparatus (1) includes a base (2), a dispenser (4) and a tower (3). The base (2) is adapted for receiving a container (63). The dispenser (4) includes a rotatable carriage (6) contacting a support element (16) with an opening (35). The rotatable carriage (6) includes a plurality of compartments (30). The rotatable carriage (6) is horizontally disposed above a, optional funnel (5) and rotatable about a central axis (20). A hopper (60) is disposed above the rotatable carriage (6) and communicates with less than all compartments (30). Each compartment (30) is capable of separately dispensing a powder (46) from the hopper (60) through the opening (35) into the optional funnel (5) and thereafter into the container (63) resting on the base (2). The tower (3) is disposed between and attached at opposing ends to the base (2) and the dispenser (4). The powder dispensing apparatus (1) is useful, for example, in preparing baby formula and other food for infants, as well as in preparing food and drink for children and adults.