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How to Choose the Best Baby Formula for Your Baby
November 2022
Author:
CPT. Kim Whitbeck, MS, RD
Coauthors:
Hyemyung Kim, RD, CDN, CNSC, CLC
Jennifer Anderson, MSPH, RDN
About Kids Eat in Color
Created by experts, Kids Eat in Color is the leading resource for families seeking evidence-based information and strategies on child nutrition and feeding.
As an Amazon Associate, Kids Eat in Color® earns from qualifying purchases made through affiliate links.
Author:
CPT. Kim Whitbeck, MS, RD
Coauthors:
Hyemyung Kim, RD, CDN, CNSC, CLC
Jennifer Anderson, MSPH, RDN
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Inside: Need help picking the right formula for your baby? Learn all about the different kinds of baby formula and what to consider when choosing which kind is best for your child.
When it comes to infant formula, there is no one-size-fits-all kind. Every baby and every family has unique needs.
In this article, we’ll answer your questions about baby formula, so you can pick the right one for your family. Learn about the different types of infant formula, the ingredients and common additives, top brands and more.
Baby formula is a fluid that infants can drink to get the nutrients that they need. It closely resembles the composition of breast milk in terms of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, minerals and many other nutrients.
Infant formulas must be approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and are required to include standard nutrients and meet safe manufacturing procedures before they can be sold.
What did babies drink before formula?
Prior to the development of formula, babies who were not breastfed were commonly fed milk from animals like cows, goats and even sheep.
However, it is important to note, animal milk does not provide all the nutrients a baby needs.
Cow’s milk, for example, offers too much protein for babies to process and could potentially lead to dehydration. It is also low in iron and can potentially cause intestinal bleeding. Consequently, animal milk should not be introduced to babies until they are at least 1 year old.
When do babies stop drinking infant formula?
For formula-fed babies, it is recommended to continue formula until your child is 12 months old.
Weaning from formula commonly occurs between 9-12 months of age, as your baby starts solids and begins to consume a diet of mostly solid foods.
After your baby turns 12 months old, you may choose to transition your child to animal milk or a plant-based milk alternative.
Please note: If your baby is premature, not gaining adequate weight or not consuming a varied diet of solid foods, you may need to continue formula after 12 months. Consult your child’s pediatrician if you have concerns about whether or not you should wean your baby off formula.
How similar is formula to breast milk?
While not exactly the same, formula and breast milk both contain the necessary nutrients for your baby’s growth and development.
Breast milk contains sugars (lactose), proteins (60% whey and 40% casein), and fats that are more easily digestible for babies.
What is unique about breast milk is that its composition is dynamic and varies depending on maternal diet, maternal health, prematurity, and other environmental factors. Breast milk changes to cater to your baby’s needs and contains antibodies that help their immune system fight off illness. (1)
Whether you feed with breast milk or formula, know that you are providing your child with the nutrients they need to thrive. Deciding between breast milk, formula or a mix of both is a personal decision that only you can make for your family.
What is in baby formula?
Infant formulas contain a combination of macronutrients (carbohydrates, proteins and fats) as well as vitamins and minerals for your baby. Different types of formula are composed of varying amounts of each macronutrient.
Below are two common types of formula and their ingredients.
Cow’s-milk-based formulas
These standard formulas use cow’s milk as a base. The cow’s milk in formula is heated to make the proteins more digestible for your baby.
While regular cow’s milk should not be given to a baby under age 1, cow’s milk formulas are safe for infants. More sugars are added and animal fats are replaced to make the formula resemble the contents of human milk.
Protein source: cow’s milk (whey and/or casein protein)
Soy-based formulas use soy as an alternative to cow’s milk for babies with a cow’s milk allergy, lactose intolerance or vegetarian/vegan preferences. Additional nutrients are added to these plant-based formulas to meet FDA requirements.
Protein source: soy protein isolate plus additional amino acids
Carbohydrate source: maltodextrin, corn syrup solids or sucrose
Other specialty formulas exist on the market to cater to babies with medical conditions such as prematurity or milk-protein allergies. These formulas vary in type and amounts of macronutrients and vitamins/minerals.
Common additives in baby formula
The following nutrients and additives are commonly added to baby formulas: iron, probiotics and prebiotics, DHA and ARA, and lutein.
Newborns receive a storage of iron in utero during the last few months of pregnancy that lasts for their first 4-6 months of life. (2) Iron stores begin to run low around the time that most infants begin eating solid foods.
Most baby formulas are fortified with iron, which makes them a good source of iron for your baby. A combination of formula and solid foods can help your child receive the iron they need.
Probiotics and prebiotics
Probiotics are live bacteria and yeasts that are beneficial to your digestive system. Prebiotics are carbohydrates that feed your healthy bacteria (probiotics) and allow it to grow. Human Milk Oligosaccharides (HMOs) are prebiotic substances added to many infant formulas. (3)
Prebiotics and probiotics are often added to baby formula to mimic breast milk which naturally contains both. Research shows that prebiotics and probiotics added to baby formula may result in improvements to gut health similar to breast milk. (4)
However, the forms of prebiotics and probiotics added to formula vary from those found in breast milk and may not provide all of the same benefits. (4)
Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) is an omega-3 fatty acid. Arachidonic acid (ARA) is an omega-6 fatty acid.
Omega-3 acids are essential (need to be obtained from food) and provide many benefits for children including fetal development, brain health and immune function. Omega-6 acids are also essential and play a role in brain health, skin and hair growth, bone health and metabolism. (5)
DHA is the dominant omega-3 found in our brains and is naturally occurring in breast milk in varying amounts dependent on maternal diet. (6) Research studies show that consumption of DHA may improve cognitive performance in school-aged children. (7–15)
ARA is the predominant omega-6 found in breast milk and in presence with DHA provides a balance of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids beneficial to brain and immune function in infants. (16,17)
While omega-3 fatty acids are generally considered anti-inflammatory, and omega-6 fatty acids (including ARA) are considered pro-inflammatory, studies show a ratio of ARA to DHA (2:1) support eye and brain health. (16,18,19)
Lutein
Lutein is a type of antioxidant called a carotenoid. Carotenoids are responsible for red, orange and yellow pigments we see in fruits and vegetables. These pigments can help to improve your child’s vision.
Lutein is found in a part of your eye called the retina, which is responsible for detecting light and turning it into the images we see.
Consuming foods with lutein may sharpen your child’s vision, prevent their eyes from harmful light and protect them against eye diseases. This is why some formula brands contain lutein and make claims related to eye health. (20)
How do I choose the best formula for my child?
When it comes to choosing a formula for your child, there are 4 things to consider: affordability, accessibility, formula forms and your child’s tolerance.
Affordability
Choosing a formula to meet your financial needs is a personal decision that only you and your family can make.
The good thing is, there are many formula options that provide the nutrients your baby needs without breaking the bank.
Can you buy baby formula with SNAP benefits?
Yes, you can purchase baby formula with your SNAP benefits. Many websites also allow for use of SNAP EBT benefits to purchase formula online (i.e. Amazon, Walmart, Target). Most states, with the exception of Alaska, currently participate in SNAP online purchasing.
It is important to note that the Supplemental Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) provides breastfeeding support and formula for families who make the personal decision to use formula. If you are interested in more information about WIC, visit the office nearest you.
Accessibility
You’ll need to consider which formulas you have access to when picking formula for your baby.
Common places to find baby formula include:
Grocery stores
Bulk stores (Costco, BJ’s, Sam’s Club)
Smaller stores and drug stores
Online well-recognized distributors and pharmacies
You may purchase formula directly from the manufacturer’s website or from third-party websites. All locations tend to have an array of formula options.
If you have difficulty finding baby formula near you, consider the following options:
Local parent groups/listservs/social media groups
Call your pediatrician office
Call your local WIC office
Call your local Community Action Agency
Call 211 with a United Way community resource specialist
An accredited milk bank (often requires prescriptions)
Forms
When choosing baby formula, you’ll also want to consider its form. Baby formulas come in 3 different forms: powdered, concentrate and ready-to-use .
Powdered formulas
Powdered formulas are in powdered form and must be mixed with water. This is the least expensive form of formula.
Proper mixing is important to ensure your baby receives the right amount of nutrients (water first!) and avoid the spread of bacteria (wash your hands before a bottle).
It is necessary to mix your baby’s formula according to instructions on the back of the formula container. It cannot be stressed enough that you should not water down your child’s formula. This is a very dangerous practice.
Concentrate formulas
Concentrate formula is in liquid form and requires additional water to be added before feeding. This kind is more expensive than powdered formula.
To prepare, you mix an equal ratio of concentrate and water. Concentrate infant formulas are often considered a more convenient option.
Much like powdered formula, it is necessary to mix your baby’s formula according to instructions on the back of the container. Again, it cannot be stressed enough that you should not water down your child’s formula. This is a very dangerous practice.
Ready-to-use infant formulas
Ready-to-use formula is in liquid form and comes ready for your baby to drink. This is the most expensive form of baby formula.
No preparation is needed for the ready-to-use formula. Since no mixing is involved, the formula has a lower risk of spreading bacteria.
Tolerance
It’s safe for most babies to consume a standard cow’s-milk-based formula. However, some babies do not tolerate the protein or sugars in standard formulas and may require you to choose a different formula.
Here are some signs that your child may not tolerate their current formula:
Spit up and irritability after feeds
Projectile vomiting
Slow weight gain
Bloody stools and/or diarrhea
Increased fussiness/colic behavior throughout the day
Skin rashes
Abdominal distention/significant gas
Signs of abdominal pain (baby pulling up legs toward belly due to pain)
Hives
Consult your child’s pediatrician before switching to another formula. They can help determine your child’s specific needs.
Can you make your own baby formula?
Baby formula is required to meet specific nutritional requirements and safety precautions for your baby’s health and well-being. For this reason, it is not recommended to make your own baby formula at home.
Top selling infant formula brands in 2022 (in alphabetical order)
*Please note that these European Brands are not FDA-regulated and are illegal for sale in the United States. We recommend that parents consider other regulated brands for safety reasons.
**Please note that these European brands’ products have been temporarily approved for use according to the FDA’s policy updates regarding infant formula shortages.
Nutritional components of top selling formula brands
**Price categorized from $ to $$$ ($ = less than $25 per can (powder), $$ = $25-35 per can, $$$ = more than $35 per can). Average can sizes vary from 19.5-30 oz depending on the brand. Kirkland Signature ProCare only comes in 42 oz containers, but the price per 21 oz is less than $25.
Please note: while products from the same brand may be similar on this chart, they may differ in other ways like the amount or types of prebiotics.
*S/S = sunflower or safflower oil. **Price categorized from $ to $$$ ($ = less than $25 per can (powder), $$ = $25-35 per can, $$$ = more than $35 per can). Average can sizes vary from 19.5-27 oz depending on the brand. Kirkland Signature ProCare only comes in 42 oz containers, but the price per 21 oz is less than $25.
**Price categorized from $ to $$$ ($ = less than $25 per can (powder), $$ = $25-35 per can , $$$ = more than $35 per can) Average can sizes vary from 19.5-30 oz depending on the brand.
How long does baby formula last?
Type
When to Use
When to Throw Away
Unopened
Until “Use By” date on the container
After the “Use By” date
Opened
Within 1 month of opening(check label on container)
Label the date you open container and throw away after 1 month (or time designated on label)
Prepared
Within 2 hours of preparation (Note: Prepared powdered formula may be refrigerated for up to 24 hours. Ready-to-use and formula made from concentrate may be refrigerated for up to 48 hours.)
One hour after baby begins feeding, throw away any leftover formula baby did not drink*
*Important note: Once your baby drinks from the bottle, the rest should be thrown away after an hour. Saliva mixes with the formula and creates a breeding ground for harmful bacteria.
Created by experts, Kids Eat in Color is the leading resource for families seeking evidence-based information and strategies on child nutrition and feeding.
Kim Whitbeck is a Registered Dietitian for the U.S. Army. She has a Master of Science in Exercise Science from Liberty University and a Bachelor's Degree in Dietetics from University of Delaware. Before joining the Army, she worked at WIC as a nutrition professional, as a diet tech at a nursing facility, and worked as a personal trainer during her time in undergrad. She aspires to work in nutrition policy and research related to community nutrition.
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Inside: Need help picking the right formula for your baby? Learn all about the different kinds of baby formula and what to consider when choosing which kind is best for your child.
When it comes to infant formula, there is no one-size-fits-all kind. Every baby and every family has unique needs.
In this article, we’ll answer your questions about baby formula, so you can pick the right one for your family. Learn about the different types of infant formula, the ingredients and common additives, top brands and more.
Article contents:
What is baby formula?
When do babies stop drinking formula?
How similar is formula to breast milk?
What is in baby formula?
Types of formulas
Common additives in baby formula
How do I know what type of formula is right for my baby?
Can you make your own baby formula?
Top selling infant formula brands in 2022
What is baby formula?
Baby formula is a fluid that infants can drink to get the nutrients that they need. It closely resembles the composition of breast milk in terms of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, minerals and many other nutrients.
Infant formulas must be approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and are required to include standard nutrients and meet safe manufacturing procedures before they can be sold.
What did babies drink before formula?
Prior to the development of formula, babies who were not breastfed were commonly fed milk from animals like cows, goats and even sheep.
However, it is important to note, animal milk does not provide all the nutrients a baby needs.
Cow’s milk, for example, offers too much protein for babies to process and could potentially lead to dehydration. It is also low in iron and can potentially cause intestinal bleeding. Consequently, animal milk should not be introduced to babies until they are at least 1 year old.
When do babies stop drinking infant formula?
For formula-fed babies, it is recommended to continue formula until your child is 12 months old.
Weaning from formula commonly occurs between 9-12 months of age, as your baby starts solids and begins to consume a diet of mostly solid foods.
After your baby turns 12 months old, you may choose to transition your child to animal milk or a plant-based milk alternative.
Keep reading to learn about the best milk for toddlers over age 1.
Please note: If your baby is premature, not gaining adequate weight or not consuming a varied diet of solid foods, you may need to continue formula after 12 months. Consult your child’s pediatrician if you have concerns about whether or not you should wean your baby off formula.
How similar is formula to breast milk?
While not exactly the same, formula and breast milk both contain the necessary nutrients for your baby’s growth and development.
Breast milk contains sugars (lactose), proteins (60% whey and 40% casein), and fats that are more easily digestible for babies.
What is unique about breast milk is that its composition is dynamic and varies depending on maternal diet, maternal health, prematurity, and other environmental factors. Breast milk changes to cater to your baby’s needs and contains antibodies that help their immune system fight off illness. (1)
Whether you feed with breast milk or formula, know that you are providing your child with the nutrients they need to thrive. Deciding between breast milk, formula or a mix of both is a personal decision that only you can make for your family.
What is in baby formula?
Infant formulas contain a combination of macronutrients (carbohydrates, proteins and fats) as well as vitamins and minerals for your baby. Different types of formula are composed of varying amounts of each macronutrient.
Below are two common types of formula and their ingredients.
Cow’s-milk-based formulas
These standard formulas use cow’s milk as a base. The cow’s milk in formula is heated to make the proteins more digestible for your baby.
While regular cow’s milk should not be given to a baby under age 1, cow’s milk formulas are safe for infants. More sugars are added and animal fats are replaced to make the formula resemble the contents of human milk.
Soy-based formulas
Soy-based formulas use soy as an alternative to cow’s milk for babies with a cow’s milk allergy, lactose intolerance or vegetarian/vegan preferences. Additional nutrients are added to these plant-based formulas to meet FDA requirements.
Other specialty formulas
Other specialty formulas exist on the market to cater to babies with medical conditions such as prematurity or milk-protein allergies. These formulas vary in type and amounts of macronutrients and vitamins/minerals.
Common additives in baby formula
The following nutrients and additives are commonly added to baby formulas: iron, probiotics and prebiotics, DHA and ARA, and lutein.
Iron
Iron is an important mineral for children that helps with the growth and development of their brains and bodies.
Newborns receive a storage of iron in utero during the last few months of pregnancy that lasts for their first 4-6 months of life. (2) Iron stores begin to run low around the time that most infants begin eating solid foods.
Most baby formulas are fortified with iron, which makes them a good source of iron for your baby. A combination of formula and solid foods can help your child receive the iron they need.
Probiotics and prebiotics
Probiotics are live bacteria and yeasts that are beneficial to your digestive system. Prebiotics are carbohydrates that feed your healthy bacteria (probiotics) and allow it to grow. Human Milk Oligosaccharides (HMOs) are prebiotic substances added to many infant formulas. (3)
Prebiotics and probiotics are often added to baby formula to mimic breast milk which naturally contains both. Research shows that prebiotics and probiotics added to baby formula may result in improvements to gut health similar to breast milk. (4)
However, the forms of prebiotics and probiotics added to formula vary from those found in breast milk and may not provide all of the same benefits. (4)
Learn more about probiotics: Probiotics for Kids: When to Take Them & How to Pick the Right One
DHA and ARA
Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) is an omega-3 fatty acid. Arachidonic acid (ARA) is an omega-6 fatty acid.
Omega-3 acids are essential (need to be obtained from food) and provide many benefits for children including fetal development, brain health and immune function. Omega-6 acids are also essential and play a role in brain health, skin and hair growth, bone health and metabolism. (5)
DHA is the dominant omega-3 found in our brains and is naturally occurring in breast milk in varying amounts dependent on maternal diet. (6) Research studies show that consumption of DHA may improve cognitive performance in school-aged children. (7–15)
ARA is the predominant omega-6 found in breast milk and in presence with DHA provides a balance of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids beneficial to brain and immune function in infants. (16,17)
While omega-3 fatty acids are generally considered anti-inflammatory, and omega-6 fatty acids (including ARA) are considered pro-inflammatory, studies show a ratio of ARA to DHA (2:1) support eye and brain health. (16,18,19)
Lutein
Lutein is a type of antioxidant called a carotenoid. Carotenoids are responsible for red, orange and yellow pigments we see in fruits and vegetables. These pigments can help to improve your child’s vision.
Lutein is found in a part of your eye called the retina, which is responsible for detecting light and turning it into the images we see.
Consuming foods with lutein may sharpen your child’s vision, prevent their eyes from harmful light and protect them against eye diseases. This is why some formula brands contain lutein and make claims related to eye health. (20)
How do I choose the best formula for my child?
When it comes to choosing a formula for your child, there are 4 things to consider: affordability, accessibility, formula forms and your child’s tolerance.
Affordability
Choosing a formula to meet your financial needs is a personal decision that only you and your family can make.
The good thing is, there are many formula options that provide the nutrients your baby needs without breaking the bank.
Can you buy baby formula with SNAP benefits?
Yes, you can purchase baby formula with your SNAP benefits. Many websites also allow for use of SNAP EBT benefits to purchase formula online (i.e. Amazon, Walmart, Target). Most states, with the exception of Alaska, currently participate in SNAP online purchasing.
It is important to note that the Supplemental Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) provides breastfeeding support and formula for families who make the personal decision to use formula. If you are interested in more information about WIC, visit the office nearest you.
Accessibility
You’ll need to consider which formulas you have access to when picking formula for your baby.
Common places to find baby formula include:
You may purchase formula directly from the manufacturer’s website or from third-party websites. All locations tend to have an array of formula options.
If you have difficulty finding baby formula near you, consider the following options:
Forms
When choosing baby formula, you’ll also want to consider its form. Baby formulas come in 3 different forms: powdered, concentrate and ready-to-use .
Powdered formulas
Powdered formulas are in powdered form and must be mixed with water. This is the least expensive form of formula.
Proper mixing is important to ensure your baby receives the right amount of nutrients (water first!) and avoid the spread of bacteria (wash your hands before a bottle).
It is necessary to mix your baby’s formula according to instructions on the back of the formula container. It cannot be stressed enough that you should not water down your child’s formula. This is a very dangerous practice.
Concentrate formulas
Concentrate formula is in liquid form and requires additional water to be added before feeding. This kind is more expensive than powdered formula.
To prepare, you mix an equal ratio of concentrate and water. Concentrate infant formulas are often considered a more convenient option.
Much like powdered formula, it is necessary to mix your baby’s formula according to instructions on the back of the container. Again, it cannot be stressed enough that you should not water down your child’s formula. This is a very dangerous practice.
Ready-to-use infant formulas
Ready-to-use formula is in liquid form and comes ready for your baby to drink. This is the most expensive form of baby formula.
No preparation is needed for the ready-to-use formula. Since no mixing is involved, the formula has a lower risk of spreading bacteria.
Tolerance
It’s safe for most babies to consume a standard cow’s-milk-based formula. However, some babies do not tolerate the protein or sugars in standard formulas and may require you to choose a different formula.
Here are some signs that your child may not tolerate their current formula:
Consult your child’s pediatrician before switching to another formula. They can help determine your child’s specific needs.
Can you make your own baby formula?
Baby formula is required to meet specific nutritional requirements and safety precautions for your baby’s health and well-being. For this reason, it is not recommended to make your own baby formula at home.
Top selling infant formula brands in 2022 (in alphabetical order)
*Please note that these European Brands are not FDA-regulated and are illegal for sale in the United States. We recommend that parents consider other regulated brands for safety reasons.
**Please note that these European brands’ products have been temporarily approved for use according to the FDA’s policy updates regarding infant formula shortages.
Nutritional components of top selling formula brands
Cow’s-milk-based formulas
Nonfat milk
S/S*
Coconut
Nonfat milk
Soy
Coconut
S/S*
Soy
Coconut
Sunflower
Lactose
Soy
Coconut
Sunflower
Lactose
Soy
Coconut
Sunflower
Lactose
Maltodextrin
Soy
Coconut
Sunflower
Nonfat milk
Soy
Coconut
S/S*
Nonfat milk
Soy
Coconut
S/S*
Rapeseed
Sunflower
Rapeseed
Sunflower
Coconut
S/S*
Soy
Coconut
S/S*
Maltodextrin
Soy
Coconut
S/S*
Lactose
Coconut
Safflower
Lactose
Coconut
Safflower
Lactose
Coconut
Sunflower
Lactose
Coconut
Safflower
*S/S = sunflower or safflower oil.
**Price categorized from $ to $$$ ($ = less than $25 per can (powder), $$ = $25-35 per can, $$$ = more than $35 per can). Average can sizes vary from 19.5-30 oz depending on the brand. Kirkland Signature ProCare only comes in 42 oz containers, but the price per 21 oz is less than $25.
Please note: while products from the same brand may be similar on this chart, they may differ in other ways like the amount or types of prebiotics.
Cow’s-milk-based formulas available in Europe
Rapeseed
Sunflower
Rapeseed
Sunflower
Maltodextrin
Rapeseed
Sunflower
Maltodextrin
Starch
Rapeseed
Sunflower
Maltodextrin
Starch
Rapeseed
Sunflower
*S/S = sunflower or safflower oil.
**Price categorized from $ to $$$ ($ = less than $25 per can (powder), $$ = $25-35 per can, $$$ = more than $35 per can). Average can sizes vary from 19.5-27 oz depending on the brand. Kirkland Signature ProCare only comes in 42 oz containers, but the price per 21 oz is less than $25.
Soy-based formulas (in alphabetical order)
Soy
Coconut
S/S*
Soy
Coconut
Sunflower
Soy
Coconut
S/S*
Sugar
Coconut
Safflower
Soy
Coconut
S/S*
*S/S = sunflower or safflower oil.
**Price categorized from $ to $$$ ($ = less than $25 per can (powder), $$ = $25-35 per can , $$$ = more than $35 per can) Average can sizes vary from 19.5-30 oz depending on the brand.
How long does baby formula last?
(Note: Prepared powdered formula may be refrigerated for up to 24 hours. Ready-to-use and formula made from concentrate may be refrigerated for up to 48 hours.)
*Important note: Once your baby drinks from the bottle, the rest should be thrown away after an hour. Saliva mixes with the formula and creates a breeding ground for harmful bacteria.
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References