If you are feeding your baby with a formula, the FDA regulates all commercially available infant formulas. So you can rest assured that you are giving your baby a product that meets minimum nutrition and safety requirements. Formula Shortage Update: Many parents and caregivers are dealing with the repercussions of the current infant formula shortages in the United States. To help meet demand, formulas are being brought in from other countries. These formulas have FDA approval, and we have added these products and more details about them to this article. Our list now includes some picks—such as Nestle Nan Supreme Pro 1 for infants 0-6 months old and Bubs Organic Grass-Fed Follow-On Stage 2 for infants over 6 months of age—that may be unfamiliar but are completely safe. There are dozens of infant formulas on the market, which might make it difficult to choose. Our experts agree it’s best to take note of the protein and carbohydrate sources, be sure they contain the right amount of added iron for your baby, and decide if you want a formula that is powdered, liquid concentrate, or liquid ready-to-feed. If your baby was born prematurely, they will likely benefit from an enriched preterm formula that contains more calories and protein and higher levels of some vitamins and minerals. A number of formulas are also specially designed to account for allergies or digestive differences in babies. To review the best infant formulas, our prenatal dietitian conducted hours of research and spoke to a pediatric dietitian. Based on our reviews, these are the best baby formulas on the market today.
Our Picks
According to the FDA announcement, the company has not received any consumer complaints and the recall is being done “out of an abundance of caution.” If you are considering buying or have ByHeart formula, be sure to check out the company website for additional information on the recall and the batches affected. Best Budget: Kirkland Signature ProCare Non-GMO Infant Formula at Costco.com Best European-Style Formula: Bobbie Organic Infant Formula
Safe Formulas Available from Overseas
Nestle NAN Supreme Pro 1 at Com.au Bubs Follow-on Formula Stage 2 at Com.au Kendamil Classic First Infant Milk Stage 1 at Kendamil.com Kendamil Goat First Infant Milk Stage 1 at Kendamil.com Cow’s milk-based infant formulas usually contain a mixture of casein and whey proteins, but casein can be difficult for some babies’ new digestive systems. Gerber’s GentlePro formula is free from casein and contains easy-to-digest partially broken down whey proteins, which Gerber calls “Comfort Proteins.” The GentlePro formula also contains the probiotic B.lactis and a prebiotic called 2’-FL HMO, which is modeled after the completeness of breastmilk. For fat, this formula uses a blend of palm olein, soy, coconut, and safflower oil; it also adds DHA and AA for brain health. Our one hesitation is the inclusion of palm olein, as some research suggests that palm olein may be associated with lower fat and calcium absorption and decreased growth and bone mineralization. All necessary vitamins and minerals are also present in this powdered, ready-to-mix baby formula. Although it does not contain GMO ingredients, this formula is not organic. Price at time of publication: $43 Kirkland is an inclusive brand and produced a product that is certified Kosher and Halal, so parents with cultural dietary considerations can comfortably use this formula. It does not contain palm oil, is easy to digest, and is available at an affordable price. The one catch is that you have to be a Costco member to have access to this brand. Earth’s Best claims this is the closest formula to breastmilk as it is an all-lactose product (meaning no corn syrup or other carbohydrates). It also includes added whey protein alongside casein, prebiotics for immunity, DHA and AA for brain and eye development, and lutein which is a carotenoid important for eye health. Price at time of publication: $50 The proteins in this product are partially hydrolyzed (broken down) and easy for a sensitive tummy to handle. NeuroPro Gentlease also contains MFGM, which stands for milk fat globule membrane. This is a substance naturally found in breastmilk important for brain structure and development and is also added to certain Enfamil products to help with digestive issues. While this product is high quality, made with non-GMO ingredients, and can be purchased in various forms, it does run a touch higher in price than your standard, non-specialized formulas. Price at time of publication: $48 If you use a formula from Abbott’s Alimentum, Similac, or EleCare brands, look out for the following to see if your product is affected by the recall: The first two digits of the code are 22 through 37; the code on the container has K8, SH, or Z2; the expiration date is April 1, 2022, or later. You can also check the lot number on the bottom of the package on Abbott’s recall page. Currently, the recall only applies to powder formulas and does not include pre-made, liquid formulas like the one recommended here. You can find more information about the recall on the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) recall page. Also of note, in October 2022, Abbott recalled certain lots of their 2 ounce ready-to-feed liquid formulas. The recall should not impact the Infant Formula Supply in the US. You can find more information about this recall via the FDA here. Similac Alimentum is clinically shown to reduce symptoms of colic from a milk protein allergy within 24 hours. The source of protein still comes from cow’s milk but in the form of casein hydrolysate, which means that the large protein molecules are already broken down and made digestive-friendly for baby. Additionally, rather than using lactose, which can cause further tummy troubles, this product uses corn maltodextrin. As an added boost, Alimentum includes 2’-FL HMO, an immune-nourishing ingredient that may also contribute to a happier gut. This product is also free of palm olein oil to help encourage softer stools since babies with cow’s milk allergies can be more prone to constipation. With all of these benefits, Similac Alimentum’s hypoallergenic infant formula is on the pricier side when it comes to baby formulas. Yet, many parents’ reviews note that it was immensely helpful for their child and well worth the cost. It’s always worth scouting out coupons or asking a pediatric healthcare provider if they can provide financial assistance. Price at time of publication: $71
This formula is made from organic, pasture-raised cow’s milk, with carbohydrates coming from lactose and protein from organic whey protein concentrate. Bobbie’s transparent sourcing and third-party testing make it a trusted brand. This female-founded and mom-led company also has a giveback mission, partnering with Baby2Baby, providing infant formula to a network of non-profits around the country. They also advocate for insurance equality for moms who cannot breastfeed due to breast cancer. Price at time of publication: $26 Price at time of publication: $22 This product is one you can trust and almost identical to infant formulas found in the US. Their Pro 1 formula contains the ever-critical addition of iron, DHA and AA fatty acids from fish oil, choline for eye and brain development, and the probiotic, bifidobacterium lactis. The Pro 1 formula is what Nestle calls a “starter” formula and is only recommended to be used up until 6 months of age. Once a baby is 6 months and solid foods are being introduced into the diet, Nestle offers a “transitional” formula called NAN Supreme Pro 2. Many of the base ingredients are the same as the Pro 1, but the quantity of certain nutrients have been adjusted to account for the changing needs and diet of the baby. More specifically, the Pro 2 formula contains more carbohydrates, calcium, slightly more iron, phosphorus, and magnesium, but fewer omega-3s, vitamin A, and oligosaccharides. The FDA anticipates the arrival of 249, 500 cans (6.5 million 8 ounce bottles) in June/July, and it will be sold on Gerber.com and other online retailers. Price at time of publication: $39
Their Stage 2 Formula, which is designed for children over 6 months of age, is certified organic, iron fortified, contains beneficial probiotics and prebiotics for gut health, and is a blend of 50% whey and 50% casein proteins. It is proudly free of palm oil and corn syrup. Aussie Bubs’ Stage 1 formula delivers the same high quality. Specifically made for the needs of infants 0-6 months old, compared to the Stage 2 formula, Stage 1 provides slightly more whey versus casein protein, more omega-3s, and higher folic acid. Both the Stage 1 and Stage 2 utilize soy lecithin as an emulsifier, so they would not be suitable for babies with a soy allergy. However, their omega-3s are sourced from algae, so these products do not contain fish if that is a dietary concern for your baby or family. The FDA news release notes that Bubs Australia will plan to provide 1.25 million cans of several varieties, two of which include the Organic Grass Fed Stages 1 and 2 formulas. Price at time of publication: $41 Kendal Nutricare, the parent company that produces Kendamil, has already imported over 1 million cans of formula and is scheduled for continued shipments. One key point to note is that the Stage 2 formula has not been FDA-approved yet; however, the Stage 1 formula is nutritionally suitable from 0-12 months. The Stage 2 formula, which is intended for babies 6 months and older, is re-formulated to adjust for natural changes in breast milk and the introduction of solids. Price at time of publication: $34 This goat’s milk formula also contains 3’-GL-Galactosyllactose, a postbiotic. Postbiotics are produced when specific strains of bacteria are fermented under strictly controlled environments. These postbiotic byproducts are similar to human milk oligosaccharides that play a role in immune system development.This product is also vegetarian, sourcing DHA from algae and avoiding animal rennet. Additionally, it is Halal and Kosher Certified. Again, a Stage 2 follow-on formula for babies 6-12 months is not set to be released in the US as of that latest FDA report; however, the Stage 1 formula is nutritionally suitable for babies 0-12 months. All infant formulas sold and manufactured in the United States must meet the nutrient requirements laid out by the FDA, including iron-fortification standards. The FDA requires that all formulas labeled “iron-fortified” must include 1 milligram or more of iron per 100 calories of formula. According the the CDC and American Academy of Pediatrics, this amount is generally sufficient to meet infant needs. European formulas are not necessarily formulated to these standards, so some may have less iron. In response to the national formula shortage, the FDA has approved more European formulas for sale in the U.S., all of which meet FDA standards for safety. However, they may not have all of the same nutrition content standards of U.S. made formulas, including those for iron. When purchasing infant formulas that are sold or prepared outside of the United States, pay special attention to iron content. This includes European formulas Holle and Hipp, which have less than 1 milligram of iron per 100 calories. If you choose a formula with lower iron content, speak to a healthcare provider about iron supplementation. The other major concern is mixing. Formulas sold in the United States typically have mixing instructions of 1 scoop per 2 ounces. Standard European formula is one scoop to 1 ounce–and the instructions may be in Dutch or German. Do your research and, of course, reach out to a healthcare provider or registered dietitian with any questions.
How We Selected
Choosing a baby formula can feel overwhelming. Ingredient lists read like another language, and there are a dizzying number of choices for tired, new parents to choose from. We spent hours doing research on the nutrient profile of baby formulas, paying special attention to the types of carbohydrates and proteins and how they mimic breast milk. We investigated the statistics and science surrounding infant allergies and intolerances and used those as considerations when comparing products. We also evaluated how ingredients were sourced and looked at their price and availability. The Top Pick was chosen based on these factors, as well as recommendations from parents and our pediatric dietitian expert. Nicole Lattanzio RD, CNSC, CSP, pediatric dietitian and owner of The Baby Dietitian PLLC, was immensely helpful to inform our knowledge of the nutrient profile of baby formulas and navigate the dozens of choices on store shelves. Nicole has worked exclusively with babies and families for the past five years and is well versed in formulas on the market today. She shared with us which ones work well for her clients and which ones she personally endorses as a dietitian and mother.
What to Look for in a Baby Formula
Protein Sources
Nicole acknowledges that there are loads of different formulas on the market, and there are many pieces to consider. “I look for the protein source first as this is one of the biggest factors in terms of tolerability,” she says. Cow’s milk whey protein is the most commonly found form of protein that more closely mimics the protein found in breast milk. If your baby suffers from gas, colic, or a cow’s milk allergy, they may benefit from a gentler and more easily absorbed protein, such as hydrolyzed (broken down) casein or whey protein. True milk protein intolerance only impacts about 2-5% of infants under 1 year old.
Carbohydrate Sources
After protein, Nicole looks at the carbohydrate source. “I prefer formulas that have lactose as a primary carbohydrate source as this mimics breast milk. When lactose is not used, alternative carbohydrate sources are used such as corn syrup or maltodextrin.” Some babies may be born with or develop a lactase deficiency which means they lack the enzyme to break down lactose. This leads to gas, fussiness, vomiting, or diarrhea, and in this case, babies may benefit from a “gentle” formula with the corn alternatives mentioned. Nicole says, “True lactose intolerance in infants is very rare. If there are concerns about excessive gassiness or not tolerating formulas, choosing a new formula based on the type of protein will lead to the most success.”
DHA and AA
When it comes to fat, formulas contain a mix of different types of unsaturated fats and are low in cholesterol and saturated fats. Some products include two polyunsaturated fatty acids, arachidonic acid (AA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), which are found in breastmilk. These haven’t traditionally been included in the formula as babies can create them using other fats already found in the formula. These fatty acids are generally known to be beneficial for baby’s brain and eye development. However, research has not yet shown a clear benefit or harm in providing formulas with these fat additions. Formulas that include AA and DHA may be more expensive.
Iron
Pregnant parents are able to pass down iron to their growing baby in the third trimester, and that iron storage will last them through the first four months of life. For formula-fed babies, it is recommended to receive an iron-fortified formula from birth. Most commercially available formulas contain 4-12 mg of iron. If your baby is breastfed or receives a combination of formula and breast milk, check with your pediatrician about iron supplementation.
Form and Preparation
Baby formulas come in powder, liquid concentrate, and ready-to-feed liquid formulas, and there are pros and cons to each kind. Powdered is the most economical. When making a bottle of formula with a powder, be sure to measure out the water ounces first, then add in the powder and shake to prevent concentrating the formula. Liquid concentrate is a bit less messy and more convenient but may be slightly more expensive. The most expensive option is the ready-to-feed formula, but it is also the most convenient and least messy. Choose the type that works best for your budget and lifestyle.
Why Trust Verywell Family
As a registered dietitian and mom, Casey Seiden MS, RD, CDCES uses her clinical expertise and mama instinct to evaluate products, taking into consideration the demands of parenthood and the unique needs of each family. While Casey was able to breastfeed and did not provide baby formula to her own child, she did extensive research regarding the science of baby formulas, studied available products on the market, spoke with mothers who used formula, and consulted a pediatric dietitian expert. Thankfully, you can purchase baby formula with SNAP benefits. Also, a pediatric healthcare provider may be able to provide you with samples, coupons or even write you a prescription to help with the cost. You may choose to give your baby formula bottles during the day and bond with your baby during nursing sessions in the morning and evenings. Choosing to supplement with formula when needed or solely provide formula is a personal choice. It is important to ensure that parents feel supported in making the decision that is right for their baby so that baby gets the high-quality nutrition they need. Lauren Capacete, MS, RD, LDN is a clinical pediatric dietitian with over five years of experience working with children and families. She is also an adjunct nutrition professor and experienced freelance writer. Through her clinical experience, Lauren has helped families navigate the world of infant formulas, ensuring babies are getting the nutrition they need and that parents are aware of the pros and cons of each formula option, including European-inspired and homemade formulas.
