Why isn’t all baby formula organic?
Truthfully… I have no idea. It makes perfect sense that we’d want to make food for our youngest humans as clean as possible. But sadly, that’s just not the way the market works. This means that every parent who’s had to buy formula before, has had to struggle with the question – should I spring for the organic?
Well, if you are just at the beginning stages of researching formula, then I suggest you read this article first. In it, I explain that I think you should make the decision on the type of protein you want in your formula first, before you decide on organic vs. not.
This is because – in the US, all infant organic formulas are made with intact (aka: really large) proteins. So, if your baby needs a partially hydrolyzed, or fully hydrolyzed protein source, then organic is not an option for you. Some of these formulas do offer non-GMO versions, but not organic.
But if your baby does well with intact protein, then I do recommend buying organic if (and only if!) your budget allows. If organic formula is a financial impossibility for you, then that is OK! Parenthood is full of decisions and endless sources of self-inflicted guilt… the decision around organic should not be one of them!
This lovely picture is totally just a stock photo. But a cute Mama and baby in flower dresses… and a braid! I am sure they are barefoot…. It looks like every organic commercial I’ve ever seen. How could I NOT use it!?
If you can afford organic, then the great news is – you’ve got plenty of options!
This is great news because every baby is different and special. Some babies do really well with prebiotics added, while it gives some babies too much gas. Some don’t respond well to DHA and ARA. Some thrive on a lactose-reduced formula with a little bit of glucose replacing the lactose …. you get the idea. For this reason, there is not one single formula that I universally recommend.
In this article, I’ll walk you through your choices in 3 steps. First, I’ll review the components in organic formulas that differ. Second, I’ll break down your brand options and point out the differences. Third, I’ll provide a few notes on what makes each specific formulas stand out (or not…).
This way, by the time you finish this guide, your decision will be an easy one! I suggest you read through the options with your individual angel in mind. Let your intuition fill in the gaps where you are unsure and then you’ll end up with the best brand for your family.
So let’s do this!
Step 1 = The components of formula that you need to consider in order of importance (according to me anyway!).
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The protein source.
We already covered the fact that all US organic formulas are intact full-size protein. Yes it’s a bummer. But, as I tell my toddlers, “don’t dwell on sad things”. (This usually follows a meltdown because the provided sippy cup was green and not blue… but the devastation seems equally emotional).
You do have a choice in protein type. First, you have a choice between soy and cow’s milk base. Earth’s Best has an organic soy formula. This is the only brand I’m familiar with that has an organic soy option.
All the rest are cow’s milk based. Then, within the cow’s milk category, you’ve got some variation. Remember that cow’s milk proteins come in 2 categories: whey and casein. Most formulas use a base of nonfat cow’s milk (which is mostly casein with a little whey) and then add additional whey to make the ratio closer to breast milk (which is more whey than casein). There are some exceptions – like Similac’s organic formula only use “nonfat milk”. So this brand has much more casein than whey as the protein. This difference is really hard to spot! The ONLY place you can find it is the list of ingredients. Just look to see whether or not extra “whey protein” is listed somewhere in the ingredients.
If you are just starting off, then I recommend looking for a formula that has the additional whey added. I think it’s best to start here, and then you can tweak ingredients if necessary moving forward.
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The carbohydrate source.
The next big thing to consider is where the carbs are coming from. Here’s my article all about carb options in formula. Basically, breast milk contains only lactose, but it also contains lots of other stuff (very scientific word there) that help a baby digest all that lactose. If your little gas-machine has an issue with these large amounts of lactose, then you may be looking for a “lactose reduced” formula. How do you know if you have one? You have to look for alternative sources of carbohydrate on the list of ingredients. These could include:
- maltodextrin
- corn syrup solids
- corn syrup
- glucose syrup solids
- sucrose
- sugar
- brown rice syrup
Here’s a tricky truth to keep in mind. Some formulas don’t have any lactose listed on the ingredients, but DO contain lactose. What!?!? How is this possible? Well, it’s because there is a significant amount of lactose in cow’s milk, so if you see “nonfat milk” on the ingredients, then there is some lactose in that – so you may not see additional lactose on the label.
Take Happy Baby Sensitive as an example. Their formula does not have ANY lactose listed on the label. The only sources of carbohydrate on the label are: Maltodextrin and Glucose Syrup Solids. But, you do see nonfat milk on the list of ingredients, so you know this is not a lactose-free formula. In fact, the carbohydrates in this formula are the following breakdown: 75% Maltodextrin and Glucose Syrup Solids, and 25% Lactose. That is a lot of lactose for not appearing on the label anywhere! These are the sneaky things parents have to figure out for themselves. Remember if “milk” is used in the ingredients, then there is at least some lactose.
To further perpetuate inappropriate stereotyping used in organic marketing – here is a picture of one of my very own barefoot, overall-clad boys. You can even see our compost in the background … how very legit! 🙂
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The fat source.
The last major ingredient is fat. All fat in organic formulas comes from vegetable oils. There’s not that much variation between brands. The big difference is that a few formulas choose to exclude palm oil form their blends. Palm oil has a little bit of controversy to it. I’m not going to go into great detail since I have another article about it, if you are interested.
Here’s my general punchline: If your baby has a chronic constipation issue, then read the article and consider avoiding palm oil to see if that improves the situation. If you have nice consistent painless blowouts occurring in your house, then the fat blend in the formula is probably not going to be a big factor in your choice.
Baby’s Only and Similac formulas are the only ones that do NOT use palm oil.
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Sexy Extras.
These are designer additions that aren’t required so you only find them in some formulas. In the organic market, these are prebiotics and lutein and lycopene. To be honest, lutein and lycopene don’t make that much of a difference to me. They definitely don’t sway my opinion one way or the other.
I do like to see a prebiotic in a formula for most babies. There are 2 types of prebiotics in the organic formulas:
- Galacto-oligosaccharide = GOS
- Fructo-oligosaccharide = FOS
Both of these help healthy bacteria grow, which has many benefits. But neither are the type of prebiotics found in breast milk. They are our chemically-similar substitute.
Lots of the organics have a prebiotic, and these differ in amount. I tried to give an idea of how much prebiotic is in each of the brands below. I use some vague language here since some of the concentrations are proprietary (meaning secret), so we have to make some loose inferences based on the order of the list of ingredients. Happy Baby has by far the most prebiotic. I think this is fantastic for lots of babies. However, I think it is too much for some especially sensitive gas-prone kiddos. (just my opinion!) It may take a little bit of experimentation to find the right amount for your own special baby.
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DHA and ARA
I’ve got a whole video about hexane-extracted sources of the fatty acids DHA and ARA.
These ingredients are controversial in some circles. There have been reported cases of some pretty bad negative responses in some babies. But these bad reactions are extremely rare. Hexane-extracted DHA and ARA are very common in formulas. In fact there is only one option on the market that does NOT include DHA and ARA.
Earth’s Best sells a “no DHA” version of their standard formula (look for the green can).
Lastly, Baby’s Only is the only formula in the US that uses a non-hexane extracted source of DHA, which comes from egg yolk. But note – this is a TODDLER FORMULA, so has to be cleared with your doctor for use in babies under 12 months.
6. Lab-based extras
These are last on my list because they are lowest on the list of ingredients (meaning lowest in quantity), and also less commonly reactive. There are lots of things that are in breast milk that are technically not nutrients. Some of these things are added to formula to try to make it like breast milk. These include: carnitine, taurine, and nucleotides.
Here’s why some people find these ingredients controversial. The way the human mammary gland packages these chemical compounds is really different and more elegant than the way we scientists are able to extract or build them in a lab (and then sprinkle them into formula). For this reason, some parents like to avoid these ingredients and stick to a more simple formula recipe. If that speaks to your intuition, then you can look in the N/C/T column in the mega-chart below to see if the formula contains Nucleotides, Carnitine, or Taurine.
I am personally pretty indifferent about these extras.
Step 2 = The Breakdown of differences between brands.
You made it!! Now that you now what differences to look for, you’re ready to compare your options. Below is the master chart of your brand options and what they offer in each of the categories we just discussed. I included two “honorable mention” formulas in the list. I included Similac’s Pure Bliss formula even though it’s not organic. This is because it is the only grass-fed option currently available in the US.
Again, why aren’t ALL formulas grass-fed and organic?! **exasperated sigh** I don’t know. But, if organic is important to you, then grass-fed is likely also an appealing option, so it is nice to see how it stacks up with organic competitors. (For more background on grass-fed and Pure Bliss, check out this article).
I also included Baby’s Only Whey formula. This is technically a toddler formula, but is a common organic competitor, so I wanted you to see it side-by-side with the infant formula options. (For more info about toddler formulas in general, check out this video). Again, you MUST clear using a toddler formula with your pediatrician if your baby is under 12 months.
So here’s the juicy (or should I say milky…. haha!) breakdown:
| Brand | Protein | Carb | Fat | Extras | N/C/T? | DHA? | $ per oz |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 Similac Organic (old) |
Nonfat Milk | Maltodextrin, Sugar (45% Maltodextrin, 27% Sugar, 8% Lactose) |
High Oleic Sunflower Oil, Soy Oil, Coconut Oil | FOS Lutein Lycopene |
N/C/T | Less than 2% | $1.14 |
Similac Ogranic (new) |
Nonfat Milk | Lactose | High Oleic Sunflower Oil, Soy Oil, Coconut Oil | FOS Lutein Lycopene |
N/C/T | Less than 2% | $1.14 |
 Similac Organic A2 (old) |
Nonfat Milk | Maltodextrin, Sugar (45% Maltodextrin, 27% Sugar, 8% Lactose) |
High Oleic Sunflower Oil, Soy Oil, Coconut Oil | FOS Lutein Lycopene |
N/C/T | Less than 2% | $1.16 |
 Similac Organic A2 (new) |
Nonfat Milk | Lactose | High Oleic Sunflower Oil, Soy Oil, Coconut Oil | FOS Lutein Lycopene |
N/C/T | Less than 2% | $1.16 |
 Similac Pure Bliss |
Nonfat Milk, Whey Protein Concentrate | Lactose | High Oleic Sunflower Oil, Soy Oil, Coconut Oil | GOS Lutein |
N/C/T | Less than 2% | $1.10 |
 Earth’s Best Standard |
Nonfat Milk, Whey Protein Concentrate | Lactose | Palm or Palm Olein, Soy, Coconut, High Oleic Safflower or Sunflower Oil | FOS Lutein |
N/C/T | Less than 1% | $1.17 |
 Earth’s Best no DHA |
Nonfat Milk, Whey Protein Concentrate | Lactose | Palm or Palm Olein, Soy, Coconut, High Oleic Safflower or Sunflower Oil | FOS Lutein |
N/C/T | None | $1.30 |
 Earth’s Best Sensitivity |
Whey Protein Concentrate, Milk Protein Concentrate | Corn Syrup Solids
(99% Corn Syrup Solids, 1% Lactose) |
Palm or Palm Olein, Soy, Coconut, High Oleic (Safflower or Sunflower) Oil | FOS Lutein |
N/C/T | Less than 1% | $1.11 |
 Earth’s Best Gentle |
Nonfat Milk and Partially Hydrolyzed Whey | Lactose and
Maltodextrin |
Palm or Palm Olein, Soy, Coconut, High Oleic (Safflower or Sunflower) Oil | FOS Lutein |
N/C | Less than 2% | $1.21 |
 Earth’s Best Soy |
Soy Protein | Corn Syrup Solids | Palm or Palm Olein, Soy, Coconut, High Oleic (Safflower or Sunflower) Oil | None | N/C | Less than 1% | $1.25 |
 Earth’s Best – No DHA |
Nonfat Milk, Whey Protein Concentrate | Lactose | Palm or Palm Olein, Soy, Coconut, High Oleic Safflower or Sunflower Oil | FOS Lutein |
N/C/T | No | $1.30 |
 Happy Baby |
Nonfat Milk, Whey Protein Concentrate | Lactose | Palm Olein or Palm, Soy, Coconut, High Oleic Safflower or Sunflower Oil | GOS & FOS | None | Less than 1% | $1.31 |
 Happy Baby Sensitive |
Nonfat Milk and Whey | Maltodextrin, & Glucose Syrup Solids (75%), and Lactose (25%) | Palm Olein or Palm, Soy, Coconut, High Oleic Safflower or Sunflower Oil | FOS Lutein Lycopene |
None | Less than 1% | $1.43 |
 Baby’s Only Premium (Formerly “Dairy) |
Nonfat Milk | Brown Rice Syrup and Lactose | Canola Oil, High Oleic Sunflower or Safflower, High Linoelic Sunflower, Coconut Oil | NO | NO | Less than 2% Egg Lecithin&
DHA free version |
$1.33 |
 Baby’s Only Sensitive |
Milk Protein Concentrate | Brown Rice Syrup | Canola Oil, High Oleic Sunflower or Safflower, High Linoelic Sunflower, Coconut Oil | NO | NO | Less than 2% Egg Lecithin | $1.18 |
 Baby’s Only Gentle (Formerly Whey”) |
Nonfat Milk, Extra Whey | Lactose | Canola Oil, High Oleic Sunflower or Safflower, High Linoelic Sunflower, Coconut Oil | NO | NO | Less than 2% Egg Lecithin | $1.33 |
Step 3 = Some notes on specific brands:
Similac Organic Formula:
Honestly, I don’t like this formula. The protein blend has no extra whey and the sucrose (a fructose-containing sugar) seems unnecessary to me. I think this is whey they changed the formula recipe in November 2020 to be all lactose.
Similac Organic with A2 milk
:
This is basically the same recipe as the Organic version above. The casein in A2 milk digests a bit differently and may be more comfortable for some infants. So if you can afford it, why not start with the A2 instead of the Organic. Look for the new white-lid version.
Similac Pure Bliss:
It does have more DHA and more FOS than most other formulas on the market. It also does NOT use palm oil, which is unusual to find these days. Remember it’s NOT organic (it is non-GMO), but it is grass-fed.
Earth’s Best Standard Dairy Formula:
This formula has about half the amount of PREbiotic as Similac Organic or Pure Bliss.
This organic formula wins my bargain award!
Sensitivity Formula:
This formula has almost zero lactose. I am not sure why it is more expensive than the standard version as corn syrup solids are cheaper than lactose … someone’s getting rich there …
However it is a great option if your little once has extreme difficulty with lactose.
Earth’s Best NO-DHA Formula:
This is your only option if you want to avoid DHA.
I’m not sure why it’s more expensive than the standard version even though it seems identical except they’ve left OUT the DHA and ARA additives. But the $ issue aside, it’s nice to have another non-DHA option on the market.
Earth’s Best Gentle Formula
:
This is unique formula! It has the highest whey-to-casein ratio of any organic formula on the market. Plus the proteins are a mix of partially hydrolyzed and full-size. But be careful. If your baby is thriving on an entirely partially hydrolyzed formula, this is NOT an organic version of that. Half the proteins in this formula are full-size. Most babies will handle that fine. But it will irritate infants who need an entirely partially hydrolyzed formula, just like every other formula in this guide .
Here is a video with more info on this formula.
Happy Baby Formula – Stage 1:
This formula’s claim-to-fame is the large amount of prebiotics – the highest on the market! This can help the baby’s gut flora to look more like breastfed babies’.
Happy Baby Sensitive Formula
:
This formula is lactose-reduced, but still has lactose (unlike Earth’s Best Sensitive). This makes it a great option if your little once has difficulty with full-lactose.
Baby’s Only Premium (formerly “Dairy”) Formula with DHA
:
Remember this is a toddler formula! Be sure to watch my video about toddler formulas and talk to your doctor first if you are considering it. It’s the ONLY formula to provides DHA and ARA from a non-hexane extracted source (awesome!). It also doesn’t use palm oil (double awesome!). It is otherwise simple, with no prebiotic or lab-derived extras. The new recipe (since November 2020) uses A2 milk! So a very similar recipe to Similac organic A2.
Baby’s Only Gentle (formerly “Whey”) Formula with DHA
:
Remember this is a toddler formula! Be sure to watch my video about toddler formulas and talk to your doctor first if you are considering it. It’s the ONLY formula to provide DHA and ARA from a non-hexane extracted source (awesome!). It also doesn’t use palm oil (double awesome!). This version has additional whey added so that the whey-to-casein ratio is up higher and closer to breast milk than the “Premium” Version
Baby’s Only Sensitive (Formerly LactoRelief)
Formula:
Remember this is a toddler formula! Be sure to watch my video about toddler formulas and talk to your doctor first if you are considering it. It’s the ONLY formula to provide DHA and ARA from a non-hexane extracted source (awesome!). It also doesn’t use palm oil (double awesome!). This formula has almost no lactose. It’s very similar in base to Earth’s Best Sensitive.
This guide ended up being a BEAST, but it really does cover everything you should consider when deciding on the best organic formula for your individual baby! I hope it serves as a useful reference that you can come back to again and again when considering your options. Remember that your intuition is the best guide out there! This article provides you the background. After that, trust what feels right for your baby.
Know of a brand I missed here? Be sure to let me know in the comments and I’ll incorporate it.
All my best to your very special baby!
xo Dr. Young
Thank you for this organic chart! I have been wondering about some of the “generic” brands that offer an organic option. Amazon has a MamaBear Organic and some grocery stores have organic too. Is generic organic still better than not organic name brand?
Hi, my name is Bri. I’m Dr. Young’s assistant. Dr. Young’s article “Is name brand formula better than generic?” along with her article “Is organic formula better?” should answer a lot of your questions. I hope this helps. You are doing a great job!
Hi! We have been giving my almost 4 month old a small amount (4 ounces) of Earth’s Best Standard Formula each day. We have noticed increased gassiness and less frequent BMs since doing so (only going every 4-5 days). He also has eczema on his belly, although we are not sure if it is associated with the formula. We are interested in trying either the Earth’s Best Gentle or the new Burt’s Bees Ultra Gentle formulas to see if they are easier for him to digest. Since he doesn’t seem to have a true allergy… would it be better to do the Earth’s Best Gentle that only has some partially hydrolyzed proteins but has prebiotics? Or Burt’s Bees Ultra Gentle which has all partially hydrolyzed proteins but no prebiotics? We do provide him with a daily probiotic. Thank you!
Hi Jessica, my name is Bri. I’m Dr. Young’s assistant. That is a great question. I’ll provide you with a few things to consider while deciding what’s best for your sweet baby. The proteins in Earth Best’s Gentle are full intact casein proteins and partially hydrolyzed whey proteins. Casein can be harder for babies to digest along with the fact that the protein is intact. With that being said, in my personal opinion, if you are already noticing some discomfort in your baby I don’t believe the switch to only half the proteins being hydrolyzed would make a big difference. The carbohydrate is also a mix of lactose and maltodextrin. You can read more about the carbohydrate source here To compare the two formulas, Burt’s Bees ultra gentle is 100% partially hydrolyzed whey protein and 100% lactose. You can read more on protein type here As you mentioned, you can always add your own probiotic. Remember to consult with your pediatrician. Best of luck to you and your precious little one!
My baby needs a corn free formula but also broken down milk protein. Hes on similac RTF.. I am co fused about the Burts Bees ultra gentle.. How is it 100% lactose and 100% partially hydrolyzed whey? And how does it compare to similac alimentum RTF
Hey Destiny
This is Emily, Dr. Young’s assistant. Thanks for your question. Since Dr. Young has not updated this post yet I wanted to direct you to her most current video on Burts Bees formula. This may help clear up any confusion. Here is a video where she compares all the Hypoallergenic formulas like Similac Alimentum. Continue to chat with your doctor, take any changes slowly and you are doing great, mama!
Emily
I read your piece on the estrogenic effects of soy protein, but should I be concerned about these same effects with soy oil? Why can’t formula just use whole cows milk (like some European brands) instead of swapping out one fat for another?
Hey Emily
This is Emily, Dr. Young’s assistant. I asked Dr. Young your specific question in regards to Soy Oil. She said the Phytoestrogen is not an issue with Soy Oil because its a fat and not a protein.
Hope that helps
Hi – Has Dr. Young looked at the heavy metal content of any of the formulas she recommends? The new reports are so scary and I have had so much trouble researching/understanding which formulas are safest in that respect.
Nicole
Thanks for your concern. This is Emily, Dr. Young’s assistant. I hope Dr. Young’s video about the Baby Food Toxin Study will help give you some answers.
Thanks
Emily
Hi! Struggling to figure out the best formula for my baby. Considering Pure Bliss and wondering what the whey:casein ratio is??
Hey Lisa
This is Emily, Dr. Young’s assistant. Thanks for your question. Here is a video about Pure Bliss that may help you. If you still want extra help try checking out Dr. Young’s signature course. You get everything you need to know to make an informed decsion regarding the best formula for your little one along with a formula switching guidebook and the most update to date brand cheat sheet that isn’t found anywhere else! Also check out the resources tab on Dr. Young’s site here. As always check with your child’s doctor first, take changes slowly and you are a great mama!!
Emily
I wasn’t able to find info on your website for Baby’s Only Organic® Dairy Whey DHA/ARA Formula. I’m debating between this and the Baby’s Only Organic® Gentle Formula. They seem very similar except for the addition of DHA, Choline, and Lutein, but I’m wondering why this one isn’t on your list. FYI: It is for a newborn (pediatrician gave us the all clear to use it at the onset)
Hey Marty
This is Emily, Dr. Young’s assistant. I am going to direct you to a few videos that Dr. Young has done that discuss Baby’s Only that hopefully can help you make your decision. She discusses Toddler Formulas in this video but will give an overview of Baby’s Only within that video. This video is a review for Baby’s Only LactoRelief vs. Honest Formula. This video may be a bit outdated because Honest is now no longer making formula and I know it doesn’t speak directly to the formulas you mentioned but it also may have some helpful information. And finally this video may be a helpful video. She discusses if Toddler Formula is safe for a newborn and covers Baby’s Only specifically because it is a common question from many parents.
As always-check with your doctor (which it sounds like you already have), take any changes slowly (helpful how to switch formula video linked) and you are a great parent! Trust yourself and love that little one.
Emily
Hi Dr. Young,
Thank you so much for all the detailed information on your website! You organize it and explain it so well even for someone like me who has never looked at food labels before becoming a mom!
Can you give your opinion on Similac Pure Bliss Toddler formula? My baby has started supplementing formula with breast milk since he was 10 months old, and since Baby’s Only Whey was unavailable at the time, I started him on Similac Pure Bliss Infant formula. He is going to be 12 months soon and I wanted to transition him to Baby’s Only but he is extremely picky and will not accept the change in taste. (I also assume he will be needing formula for a bit longer as he is an extremely picky eater). So what would be the best toddler formula for me to transition him from similac pure bliss? I found that Similac Pure Bliss toddler formula does not have added whey and has corn maltodextrin so got a bit nervous. If you can please give your recommendation, I would really appreciate it.
Thank you!
Nikita
Hey Nikita,
This is Emily Perry, Dr. Young’s assistant. Thanks so much for your kind words about the website! I wanted to direct you to some more information that Dr. Young has in regards to Toddler Formula. She has a video that discusses Toddler formulas here: https://youtu.be/LJeVZE2aYy8 and here: https://youtu.be/QOiqGoXB1iU
She also has a video that talks about transitioning to milk here: https://youtu.be/VTcW_4HaVSk and offers some tips that may help as well.
And finally she sells an ebook with recipes that will “Rock your Parenting” here: https://gum.co/SccsgI
Congrats on having an almost 1 year old! That is so awesome Mama-you are doing a great job!
Emily Perry
Hi Dr. Young,
I was wondering if you have reviewed what seems to be the new plum organic formula? I know it disappeared for a while and it is back in different packaging (not sure about the formulation). Also, same question about the honest co formula since they seem to have done the same.
Hi Dr. Young! My baby is 11 weeks old and we just started him on Nutramigen a week ago. He doesn’t seem to be adjusting well to it. His bowels are very watery and pushes until he’s red in the face. He was previously on similac pro advance but he was constipated for 3 days and when he finally went there was some blood in his stool when he finally was able to go. The doctor thought the blood was possibly from a lactose intolerance. But he never had an issue with the similac the weeks following up to the constipation. I thought the blood could’ve been from that. Would you recommend trying another formula or sticking it out with the Nutramigen? Thanks!
Hi Ashley – you have to talk to your doc. If he/she really thinks your LO has an allergy then you have to stick with hypoallergenic formulas and you are limited to either: Nutramigen, Alimentum, or Gerber HA. If your doc is willing to let you do a little more experimenting, you could try a partially hydrolyzed formula – which is in between full-size protein (Pro Advance) and Nutramigen (fully hydrolyzed). I have an article that breaks down your optionsHow to Choose the Best Partially Hydrolyzed (Gentle) Formula For your Baby. I hope that helps!
Hi Dr!
Thank you for the helpful YouTube videos and articles!
My babies have been on Target “Advantage” formula for 8mo. However, we keep getting black chunks in it.
Is this burnt milk crystals?
Regardless, I am shopping for something different and found Gerber Natura Organic for $5/23oz can locally.
My babies don’t seem to have any issues digesting it.
Would you steer away from it, with Maltodextrin the third ingredient?
I like the price and that it is organic but wondered if you have any comments on this.
I had been looking at other organic options and like that the cows in Europe graze on grass as cows should.
Do cows in the US eat corn even if they are in an organic farm?
Thank you!
Hi Dr Young!
Amazing articles you have on this website! Thank you for taking the time to share your knowledge:)
My 5 mth old baby is a ‘happy spitter’ . It has been like this since he was a mth old. He gains weight well, isn’t fussy or gassy. However, he spits up quite a bit. May or may not be with burping. Sometimes in between his feeding time. He is on Enfamil. There are some gd days where he spits up very little then somedays it’ll be so much.
He spits up more on breastmilk. That’s why i have since completely stopped and he is exclusively on formula. I’ve only tried switching from Enfamil once to similac total comfort. The smell is so unpleasant and i felt that he spit up more too. So i stopped after a couple of feeds and went back to enfamil.
Is there anything I could do in terms of formula? Could there be something else which could help with the spit ups?
Thanks in advance for looking into my query!!
Hi,
My 6 month old baby boy has been on Gerber Gentle and I am trying to get him onto Earth’s best organic (red). It’s been two days that I’m giving him half-half to in order to switch gradually. But he cries all of the sudden without any reason which never happened before. Do you think it’s because of the protein size; he can’t digest that? He cries really hard for a few minutes then he is good. Let me know your opinion and thank you for your wonderful website.
Hiva
Hi Hiva, trust your Mommy intuition! but if he’s not ready yet – just stick with the Gerber (which is a great formula!) and try again when he’s 9 months old.
My baby is 4 months old exclusively breast fed and I would like to start supplementing. Which Plum product should I use at this stage??
Thanks!
I just wanted to comment and say that I LOVE the plum organics formula! I have a 3 year old and a 6 week old. I’m currently and have used the plum for both my boys. I was trying to breastfeed my 6 week old and he wasn’t gaining any weight. It wasn’t until I started with the formula, he started to gain weight and is no the chubby baby he should be
Hello! Thank you so much for this website. I really appreciate the summary of information and have used it to try to approach formula selection a bit more scientifically. We’ve tried several so far (in order), Pro-Advance, Pro-Sensitive, Plum Gentle and we are now on Gerber Soothe with main goal to reduce discomfort and a lot of mucous in 8 week old’s poop. The Soothe has been the best in terms of discomfort, however baby now has full-on diaherra (not just mucous, but liquid diaherra, though going much less often). She has been on it about a week now and we followed your transition plan. Second best was Plum Gentle (but she was still uncomfortable when trying to poop and it had mucous). Any thoughts on the Gerber Soothe causing diaherra or ingredients to avoid with mucous/diaherra symptoms?
Thanks!
This is a really sensitive topic, I was very confused that which organic formula should I opt for my kids, and I have ended up here. Thank you very much for sharing such informative article with us, I’m looking forward to reading such informative blog posts in the future as well.
After watching nearly all of your videos and being recommended HiPP from my Pediatrician, we started HiPP at 6mos. Prior to that he was exclusively breasted until 4mos and supplemented with Happy Baby and Earths Best until 6mos. He is now almost 9mos. At first we were on HiPP UK stage one and it worked great. But then I learned about Dutch in a can and that he should be on stage 2. So I went with that. He does OK but not as good as U.K. stage one. He gets constipated. He poops nearly every day but he strains. He never did that on other formulas. I try to give him 5oz of breastmilk a day to help and a little extra probiotics. The only thing that really helps are some Prunes, pears and peas. But he hates prunes and I hate giving him the extra sugar. Anyhow, I’m thinking of changing formula and I don’t want to order in bulk to get HiPP again.
I’m trying to decide between Baby’s Only or Pure Bliss because I read that the lack of Palm Oil might help with Constipation. I originally went with HiPP because I did not like the idea of Soy since my family has a history of auto immune and the possible extra estrogen.
My third option is to go back to Happy Baby stage one since it has low iron and lots of prebiotics.
Thoughts?
I hate changing the formula again but
I also don’t like the constipation and it’s over 90s in Florida so I don’t want to order and the formula sit outside if I’m not home to receive it.
Thank you!
Andrea
Hello,
I’m having a hard time deciding which formula to give my newborn. Unfortunately, I’m not producing enough breast milk and he wasn’t gaining enough weight. I purchased baby’s only whey dairy with added DHA/ARA but after a wellness visit to our pediatrician, we see our baby still isn’t gaining the appropriate amount of weight for a 1 month old.
Should I switch formulas? Could their be a reason why our healthy baby isn’t gaining weight while using baby’s only ?
Thank you !
Hi Diana, This is something you really need to work with your pediatrician on. I can tell you that Baby’s Only is technically a toddler formula. It also is “high calorie” (22kcal/oz). This sounds like a good thing for a baby who isn’t gaining well, but sometimes it can be more complicated than just calories with infants. Talk to your doctor carefully about exactly how much your baby is eating, urinating, and stooling. How the stool appears, and any other “symptoms” your baby may be having. Your doc will likely want you to try an infant formula and perhaps one with a modified protein to be sure your angel is digesting it well. But this is really something your doctor needs to help you with. Good luck Mama!
Hi Dr. Young,
My baby is 5 months old and I’ve recently gotten to the point where I need to supplement with formula. She has reflux pretty bad and basically throws up everything she drinks (even when she was exclusively breastfed). I tried changing my diet and nothing seemed to help. Unfortunately, My milk supply has started to decrease and I’ve needed to supplement as I previously mentioned. I chose to try happy baby premium formula and I noticed that even though my baby is still throwing up it is no where near as much as when she was drinking breastmilk. I should also mention that my baby is still breastfed and will drink about 2-3 bottles of formula a day (mostly 2oz sometimes 3oz). She is also picky and won’t drink just any formula. I tried the enfamil neuropro, gentlease and AR for reflux and my baby did not like the taste at all. She would gag and refuse to drink it. This caused her to refuse the bottle even with breast milk until we tried happy baby. My question is, should I try a different formula to help with her reflux (maybe something hydrolyzed) or stick with happy baby? I have talked to my baby’s doctor about this and she was not very much help since she didn’t recommend one. She said I could pick the one I wanted. She continued to tell me that no formula would be bad for her but since reading your articles and watching your videos I know that none are bad just made different. I don’t know which to pick. I would really appreciate your help.
What are your thoughts on European and goat formula? I tried Plum Organics and it gave my baby so much constipation. I was chatting with someone on the huggable site and they recommended I try this one https://huggable.com/collections/baby-formula/products/holle-goat-stage-1-organic-infant-milk-formula. What do you think?
oooh – I have an article all about this!
My 8 month old son lost a massive amount of weight after birth due to undiagnosed Pierre Robins Sequence (no cleft) and silent aspiration of everything except honey thick liquids (I thicken BM with GelMix). After months of research, feeding therapy, supplemental oxygen, and intense advocacy for him, he is only just now climbing onto the weight charts at all. Over the course of investigating his troubles I have EBF, triple fed BM, and EP breastmilk this whole time. I’ve EBF my other three kids (ages 7,5,3) until nearly 2yo each with zero issues. After a week stay in the PICU last month for my son’s pneumonia and septic shock my supply tanked and I’m barely producing up to 24 oz a day (with the use of galactagogues) and no freezer supply. I’d like to boost my son’s intake to the upper end (28-32oz/day) so I’m researching formula and your information has been so helpful. I feel very empowered as I read the labels now. Thank you! Would 6-8 oz of formula in addition to about 24 oz BM a day be beneficial? I’m struggling big time with the use of Palm Oil but also with non organic ingredients because I would hate for him to aspirate even trace toxins and I don’t want to risk blocking absorption, especially of the BM. Am I stressing unnecessarily??
Any chance that there is a product that is both organic and free of palm oil? There are so many conflicting opinions of Baby’s Own which is the only one I’m aware of…
Hi Sandra. Wow. That’s what I can say. Your family has certainly endured so much! As you are well aware – you should be making this decision with your medical team. Given his condition, there may be options I don’t know about (for example, perhaps he can go on a fortifier type product that could add nutrients and calories without much volume). It’s really something you need to ask the doc about.
I can answer the question about formula! There are a few formula options that are palm-oil free and organic: Similac Organic and Similac Pure Bliss. Now, Pure Bliss is not organic, but it it Grass Fed which provides benefit that organic doesn’t. You also have some European options. Obviously you HAVE TO clear that with your doc as importing a European formula is a big deal. In that camp, you have some goat milk formulas that avoid palm oil, and HiPP Comfort (which is partially hydrolyzed) also avoids palm oil. Good things to discuss with your doc. Good luck Mama! You two are both inspiriting!
Hi there! This guide has been so helpful. Thank you! I’ve heard a lot about ordering European brands like HIPP. I was surprised to find that they’re actually pretty similar in price to US brands but wasn’t sure if it’s worth the trouble to get them. Do you know what about them is so desirable? Thanks!!
Hi Catherine, I sure do! Here’s an article breaking down the differences (and similarities!)
Hi there, my baby(14 months) was both breast fed and formula fed, and she is still drinking formula (plum Organics-purple box) at bedtime. Are there any toddler formulas that you recommend?
Thank you !!
Hi! If it is just one reasonably sized bottle at bed, and he is growing well – then you can just slowly switch from Plum to organic whole cow’s milk. Be sure to clear with your doc. If he’s healthy and eating well, he likely doesn’t need a toddler formula and milk would be fine. But there are really no “rules” here! You can also just stay on Plum until you give up that last bottle before bed which will happen sometime in the next few months anyway. In short – that “last bottle” and transitioning off formula all together are definitely something things that happen over time AND also have a lot of emotions involved – for both you AND baby! So don’t feel bad making the transition slowly and gently. And give yourself grace and permission to follow your baby’s lead. I hope that is helpful!
My daughter is almost 5 months old and so far EBF. At work and supply is starting to not meet demand. Because she’s on the cusp of the 5/6 month recommendation not sure where to start and hoping to chose the right formula to start supplementing with a few ounces when necessary and then full formula in a few months if necessary. Minor reflux. Trying to decide between Plum Gentle, Gerber Good Start, Similac Pro Advance, Honest. Any advice?! Every time I feel settled in a decision I rethink everything and find myself back and square one.
Hi Lauren – way to make it to 5 months exclusively breastfeeding Mama!!! Here is a starting recommendation if you have never used any formula before: https://babyformulaexpert.com/quick-fix/
If you are starting off with just a little supplementation, then I would go for the recommendation for older babies. Check out the list, read why I recommended these, and then listen to your intuition. Then go with that formula and don’t second guess yourself. If your daughter has trouble with it, you’ll deal with the problem based on her symptoms, but chances are she will do amazing and worrying won’t help anyway. Being a Mom is hard enough!
Good luck!
Help! My 6 month old baby girl has been on similac organic formula and I am trying to get her onto something else since I have seen it’s not the best one… she seems to only like the taste of the similac organic and refuses any other 😐
Hi Brittany, first off – if she is thriving, then I would not worry about her formula. There is no such thing as a poison formula. Plus, Mamas have enough to worry about without adding formula anxiety if baby is doing well. I am not surprised to hear she “prefers” the Similac. Similac organic uses carbohydrate sources that are sweeter than lactose, so it likely has a sweeter taste than lactose based formulas. If you are determined to switch, I would try a real slow gradual switch to wean her off the sweetness without her knowing. Maybe start with all her bottles 1/4 new formula and 3/4 Similac Organic. Then work your way up to 1/2 and 1/2 and so on. Hopefully this way, she doesn’t realize you are slowly changing to something less sweet. Of course be sure to clear any change with your doc.
Very glad I came across your formula research as I have been trying to navigate it on my own for my first grandchild, my daughter is expecting…. I appreciate also that you have a PhD in nutrition…. Thanks so much for this research and sharing your results!
what a sweet note – you are so welcome!
Hi! I have an almost 6 month old who has been on Baby’s Only Dairy DHA/ARA formula and doing great! No spitting up. Gaining weight appropriately. My doctor has never heard of BO and wanted me to switch at 4 months. I was afraid to. Why ruin a good thing? What can I tell him to make him feel better about it?
I have a video all about this! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QOiqGoXB1iU
Hi Dr,
I love your website as I am transitioning my 4 month old to formula. He is in on Prevacid for silent reflux.
We have just gone through a box of Lebenswert Stage 1 and are now trying the HIPP Stage 1 to compare. So far I prefer the Lebenswert for taste and consistency.
I was just wondering why these two brands were not in your comparison?
I now realize with his reflux, the intact proteins might not be the best choice, but I want to avoid corn syrup solids and soy, among other questionable ingredients.
Thank you fort this invaluable information ❤❤❤
Hi Lindsay – the European formulas aren’t on this list because I have a separate article about them. As you know the EU formulas aren’t regulated in the US and are not imported through “normal” channels. So it’s a choice you need to make with your doctor. If you want to try a partially hydrolyzed protein (which is not a bad idea if you are dealing with reflux), here is an article breaking down your options.
Hi Dr. Young,
My 3 month old has mild to moderate eczema. He is exclusively formula fed since my supply tanked and is currently on Similac Pro-Sensitive Non-GMO. His pediatrician thinks he may have an issue with dairy, so we had tried Enfamil Nutramigen, but on the second day I switched him back to Similac because it seemed like it was making his eczema worse (more dry). Have you heard of such a case? I know eczema could be so many other factors, such as using Aquaphor while on Nutramigen (we now think he may be allergic to the lanolin in Aquaphor). He does well with the Similac Pro-Sensitive, but I’m still noticing he has redness around his eyes when he has a feed. We medicate when he has flare-ups but obviously I can’t apply it around his eyes, so I know he’s having a reaction with his feeds if his eyes turn a little red.
Would it be a benefit at all if I switch to an organic, sensitive formula or should I give Nutramigen another try since we now think he has a sensitivity to Aquaphor? Would love your thoughts. Thank you for your time!
Hi Michelle, I can’t tell you what to do – sorry! I can give you some info that may help. Similac Sensitive is an intact protein that is 80% casein. Nutramigen is fully hydrolyzed protein. There are tons of options in between these 2. You could try a partially hydrolyzed formula – which have been shown help with eczema in some cases – ONLY IF your doc is OK with you testing this. Here is an article breaking down your options in this category.
How do I know when to transition my baby to a stage 2 formula? My little was breastfed until about 5 months, and then after a little trial and error has been doing well on Gerber Good Start Gentle Stage 1 for the last month. As she continues to eat more solid foods, when do I try switching formulas? Probably to something with organic, intact proteins. This website is the best. I really enjoy your scientific approach. Thanks!
Hi Samantha – I have a video about this that may help!
What about Goat milk formula? Any info or thoughts on that?
I got you right here! 🙂
https://babyformulaexpert.com/best-goat-milk-formula/
Any advice on my current situation – tried Lebewert stage 1 and happy baby organic stage 1 for my 5mo old. Did fine the first time taking each, but the past two times taking lebewert, he has projectile vomited A LOT. I’m at a loss. I’ve tried full formula bottle, mixing half formula and half breast milk, not sure why this is happening. I follow instructions to a tee and make sure everything is sanitized. Would love to continue to exclusively breastfeed but it’s unrealistic with my work travel. Appreciate any help!
Hi Rebekah – I’m so sorry! Honestly, it could be a million things. Lebenswert and Happy Baby are similar in that both are intact proteins, both are lactose based, both have palm oil, etc. So it is hard to predict what ingredient could be bothering your little guy. Ask your doc if they have a recommendation. Or, you can set up a time to speak with me and we can go through his history in much more detail and come up with a plan together.
Why do organic formulas have a lower whey to casein ratio than other formulas and breast milk? Haopy baby’s ratio is 30/70 whey to casein. I was deeply considering this formula until I found that information. We are supplementing with neuropro now and she’s doing fine with it so I don’t need a lactose reduced formula. I think we are ultimately going to go with HIPP Dutch. I’ve literally been reading your articles and watching your happy hours for the last two weeks and still haven’t been able to make a decision but you have been so helpful!
I am so glad my content has been helpful! And you are right – all the US organic formulas have a 30/70 whey/casein ratio. I don’t know why this is… but assume it is because organic whey is expensive and so a lower ratio is cheaper to produce 🙁
All I can say is…thank you! This has been the most helpful of any website or guide that I have found!
I can’t believe you took the time to write such a nice comment. Thank YOU!
Which would you recommend for an exclusively breastfed 8 month old whom I will slowly start supplementing with one formula bottle a day (and then eventually more). Baby has no issue with gas/spit up etc. Looking for something clean, organic and with DHA. You think the Plum? How do you feel about cows milk vs soy for babies? I’m so conflicted on this.
Plum is a great choice! Check out my starter recommendations here.
So do you know where I can buy an organic formula that’s good for baby. I mean I can’t sleep and the baby’s only takes too long to ship to Canada and super expensive.
Hi Jumana, I would suggest going to the store near you and seeing what your options are. Then compare the ingredients and pick the best for your baby based on your options (you can use the chart in this page as a general guide of what to look for). That way you don’t have to worry about shipping and tariffs or anything like that. Good luck!
Hi,
I love your information and I have questions. I am a mother of an 8 month old baby and he is formula fed as of 6.5 months. After I researched some of the formulas out there and their ingredients, I started to panic, feel ill and in shock. I am paranoid. I live in Canada and it’s hard to get “Baby’s only Formula” I have purchased a few but the new one is only available in the United states. And it is expensive. What is the next best in your opinion. PLum says that they extract their DHA via water. And Similac I am not sure. So I am unable to sleep nor confused in choosing. PLease help me, I am so stressed. Thank you
No matter which formula you choose – you are feeding your baby and he will be fine! Please don’t worry so much! Plum is a great option, and their DHA is water-extracted. The ARA is hexane-extracted but it is SO rare that babies react to that. If he has been on standard formula previously, then he will tolerate it just fine. The info on this page gives you the differences between brands so you can choose for yourself. then pick one that you can get consistently, and then enjoy being with your baby and don’t waste your precious energy stressing 🙂
Hey I was wondering if there is a good formula that u would suggest for spit up
Hi Tiffany, I am going to give you an infuriating reply. No, I don’t have a single formula for spit up. Spit up is caused by a ton of different things that will differ between babies so there’s not one single formula that will solve the root cause of spit up for each baby. Also spit up is very normal! It’s not normal if it is causing your baby pain or is vomit-like. Here’s a video to help you get started: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FqggByskCUI
Hello I had a premature baby 3 months early I breast feed as long as I cold from NiCU until she got home then my meds changed and I couldn’t breastfeed any more well anyway they have her on Neosure she spits so much it’s like she don’t get enough we have also tried Gerber good start gentle she spit up more with that I really need help trying to pick a good organic formula please help cause no one seems to know what to do they keep saying try this formula try that formula and I don’t want to keep putting my baby through that cause she goes through bowl movement problems enough
Hi Dominique, what an awesome job pumping for your NICU baby for 3 months! That’s awesome Mama! I’m so sorry she is having problems keeping down formula. Honestly, I can’t give advice for premature babies since I am not a Neonatologist, and you know more than most than NICU graduates can still have unique complications. I suggest you start with this article about protein size which will help you differentiate the classes of formula you have tried, and the ones you have not tried. Then talk to your Dr about the next category of formula you want to try, and have them help you adjust the calories if necessary. Sorry I can’t be of more help than that…. Good luck Mama!
I noticed plum organics has a gentle (red) version that the label says contains lactose , partially hydrolized whey for easy ingesting…only difference i saw on label with the purple can was lactose, non fat milk & whey protein.
The red can doesnt say nonfat milk on it & I know you said in the article that most organic formulas dont offer partially hydrolized whey…
thoughts? good version of plum to try for gas?
YES! Plum Gentle came out AFTER I wrote this article (I’ve got to get around to updating it). Here’s a video all about it: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q9IE_rMBS10
Can you give me a breakdown of Earth’s Best Gentle (Blue Can)?
Hi Hannah – sure thing! Here’s a video I made on the topic.
I watched all your review video to educate myself on what formula to choose for my reflux and protein intolerant baby. I’ve been BF until about 6 months. That’s when I started experimenting with supplementing with formula. I tried the hypo allergenic and they smelled and tasted awful. I then tried Gerber and Gerber soother but baby spit up constantly- even after we had the spit up under control with Raditine 2x a day. I then started on Earth’s Best Gentle in the teal can before watching you’re review. He’s been drinking that pretty nicely for a little over a month. I just today started plum gentle based on what you shared in the Earth’s Best video and the plum gentle happy hour. It’s only night one but he’s fussy and spitting up a little more. Any reason you may suggest why this could be happening? Should I wait the 10 days or switch him back to the teal can?
I always say “If your baby is doing well – you found the perfect formula!”
I would guess he’s fussing immediately on Plum Gentle since you switched him from a lactose-reduced to full lactose formula. This means his body needs to ramp up it’s lactose-digesting capacity. You can definitely wait the 10 days to see if he improves. This will help if you prefer Plum Gentle. Otherwise you will have the “what if” scenario in you head. If you don’t have a preference, then I would just stick with the Earth’s best Gentle. Use what works, and trust your intuition!
Hello, thanks for the info, what do you think of Munchkin grass fed
I love it! I wish it would hurry up and release in the US! Currently they only have a toddler formula out. Here is a review I did of the infant formula when they announced it would be released Spring of 2017 … but we are still waiting.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H3Iyew6kIBc
Hey there, I really think my baby has a lactose sensitivity. I used to have him on the Gerber soothe and felt like there was good improvement with gas but his poops were awful!!!! I decided I want to try to go organic and now have him on earths best (red can) his poops are better and he doesn’t spit up near as much as the Gerber one. But he’s way more gassy again! What can I do? Shall I try the earths best sensitivity? It seems as though that one has even less lactose than the Gerber… any issues with even less lactose? I want to give my baby the best but also want him to be happy and comfortable. Also can corn syrup solids cause constipstion? Would love to hear your advice.
Hi Beth, if the problem on Gerber Soothe was just smelly poops, then I would take that over gas pain. But honestly, gas is such a normal issue it is hard to know from your comment if switching formulas would help. Trust your intuition there. If you want to try an organic lactose-reduced. I would suggest Honest co Sensitive (which is about 25% lactose) over Earth’s Best Sensitive (which is less than 1% lactose). Corn syrup solids does not normally cause constipation, I would guess any constipation is from the switch from partially hydrolyzed protein (Gerber) to intact protein (Earth’s best). Good luck Mama!
Do you recommend Happy Baby Sensitive?
Hi Stacy, it totally depends on the baby. Happy Baby Sensitive is an intact protein, lactose reduced formula. Looking at the ingredients, it is very similar to Honest Co Sensitive. It will be helpful for kiddos who have a hard time with 100% lactose, but can handle intact proteins.
Your information has been soooooo helpful to me. Recently my daughters pediatrician thinks she may have a lactose intolerance (which has not added up to me), but this has been helpful to me in deciding which other formulas I can try. Thank you!!!
Oh you are so welcome! thanks for taking the time to write such a nice comment. It warms my heart.
Hi Dr. Bridget Young,
My baby will be 3 months old next week. I’ve had to supplement him with formula since he was a week old due to low milk supply. He is currently using Happy Baby formula. We switched to this about 3 weeks ago. He has always spit up but since switching to this formula it is crazy amounts of spit up. I suspect he may have a sensitivity when I eat dairy and I’m wondering if the protein in this formula may be causing more of an issue for him since it is not broken down at all. He has used the red can of Earth’s best and Gerber Good Start gentle. I’m wondering what might be a good next step to help with the spit up. I was hoping to stick with an organic with better ingredients but I’m thinkjng now we may need to avoid organic due to the intact protein. Any thoughts on a good next step?
All the organic formulas are also only 30% (or less) whey. So yes, he may need a partially hydrolyzed formula, or he may just need less casein and more whey. Something like Enfamil Infant (60% whey) or Enfamil Newborn (80% whey and fine to feed beyond 3 months) may be helpful. Ask your Doc which of these sound like a better fit based on his individual history. Leave a comment when you find the right one … Good luck Mama!
Can I ask how you discovered the percentage of lactose that is in the Earths Best sensitivity formula? I’ve been trying to locate the exact percentage and can’t find it anywhere!
I called the company!
Hi Dr Young, what about this? https://www.bellamysorganic.com.au/product/step-1-organic-infant-formula/#product_tabs1
Bellamy Organics
thanks!
Hi Polyn,
This looks like a great “stripped down” simple organic intact protein, mostly whey formula. Looks like the company is Australian, so I am not sure what kind of regulation they have there so I can’t speak to that. If you are importing, I would look into their regulation first just to be sure you are getting a certified product. I love seeing new brands … thanks!
I’ve just started reading through your articles and watching your videos and am so thankful for the information. I am not sure if you have mentioned it somewhere before or are purposely not mentioning it, but what formula did you personally use for your little ones? Did you use one of the ones you recommend? With the new formulas on the market, what would you have chosen now?
Hi marquie! I actually do avoid it – not to be sneaky, but because every baby is so different that I recommend different formulas for different situations. I do have a recommendations page if you are JUST starting out with supplementation and don’t know where to begin. I will be adding Plum’s Gentle formula to the recommendations for newborns, but haven’t gotten around to it yet. I hope that helps!
How about the European brands of organic formulas? I have heard they have higher standards.
Hi Kathy! Funny you should ask 🙂 Here’s my article ALL about it:
https://babyformulaexpert.com/european-formula/
Thank you for pointing out that Baby’s Only is not an Infant Formula.
I just got a list of contents and amounts in grams. Some are way too much for Infants.
Have seen so many sites and blogs telling people its safe for Infants.
Its Toddlers only.
Thank you for such an informative article! Do you have a similar matrix for “regular” (non-organic) formulas? It is such a great way to digest the information.
You’re so welcome! I don’t have a chart in one single place, but you can see the breakdown of the major US brands for fat, protein and carbs individually on the individual articles about these topics.