The Best Baby Formulas, According to a Prenatal Dietitian

The Allure of European Infant Formula

In recent years, there has been an increase in consumers purchasing European infant formulas. While you can certainly choose this option for your infant, be mindful of a few key features. All infant formulas sold and manufactured in the United States must meet the nutrient requirements laid out by the FDA. However, it is important to note that the FDA standards for iron are lower than the recommended intake for infants. While, for the most part, all US formulas provide adequate iron, many European formulas do not. 

When purchasing infant formulas that are sold or prepared outside of the United States, pay special attention to iron content. This includes both European formulas, such as Holle and Hipp, as well as FDA-approved European-style formulas such as Bobbie. If you choose a formula that provides less than 1.5mg of iron per 100 calories, speak to a healthcare provider about supplementing with iron prior to six months. 

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 those instructions will likely 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.

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.