Baby Formula 101: Types of Formula and More
Whether you’re supplementing breast milk, exclusively formula feeding, exploring options, navigating the formula aisle can feel overwhelming. Labels like “gentle”, “organic”, or “hypoallergenic” may sound helpful, but what do they really mean?
Here’s a simplified guide to the types of baby formula out there, what they’re made for, and when they might be right for your child.
1. Cow's Milk-Based Formula (Most Common)
The majority of formulas are made from cow’s milk that’s been modified to be more digestible for babies. Commonly, iron, DHA, and essential nutrients are added to help your child grow and develop. Cow’s milk-based formulas are suitable for most healthy, full-term, and preterm infants and are trusted by pediatricians worldwide. Recently, new brands of formula have come onto the market that are whole milk based (kendamil, by heart, some types of Bobbie). Most classic cow’s milk formulas are made from a combination of skim milk and oils in order to provide fat. Both of these are great options and we lack side by side studies to say if one is superior to another.
Examples: Similac Advance, Enfamil NeuroPro, Gerber Good Start
2. Soy-Based Formula
Made with soy protein and designed for babies with lactose intolerance, galactosemia, or for families following a vegan lifestyle. However, soy-based formulas are NOT recommended for preemies or allergy prevention. Due to cross reactivity, these would not be recommended for babies with cow’s milk protein allergy.
Examples: Enfamil ProSobee, Similac Soy Isomil
3. Hypoallergenic (Hydrolyzed) Formula
For babies with cow’s milk protein allergy (CMPA) or severe food intolerances. In these formulas, the proteins are broken down (hydrolyzed) or completely replaced with amino acids to make them easier to digest. These are only recommended under severe medical conditions and should only be used under pediatric supervision.
Types and Examples:
Partially hydrolyzed: For easier digestion, not for allergy treatment. These are often called gentle formulas and can be a good first step if baby seems uncomfortable with feeds or there is concern for lactose sensitivity due to illness or diarrhea, but not for a true milk protein allergy.
Extensively hydrolyzed: Nutramigen, Alimentum – for cows milk protein allergy.
Amino acid-based: Neocate, EleCare – for severe protein allergies. Formilas like this are designed for babies with specific metabolic issues and these are the most broken down form of formula. These require a prescription from a doctor and are sometimes covered by insurance. We absolutely use these formulas when needed but as the formula gets more broken down, it tastes worse and becomes more expensive so we try to only use when we need to.
4. Organic Formula
Certified organic options should contain no synthetic pesticides, growth hormones, or genetically modified organisms. Nutritionally they are comparable to conventional formula. Honestly, they’re usually the same as cow-based of soy-based formulas but with a higher price.
Examples: Earth’s Best Organic, Happy Baby Organic
5. European Formulas
Brands like HiPP and Holle are popular among parents for their clean ingredients and whole milk fats. These formulas are regulated by the European Food Safety Authority, and these are not FDA-approved in the United States. Kendamil is also European and recently became FDA approved in the US. After the creation of Bobbie which is an American brand with goal of making formula similar to European type, many families shifted from HiPP and Holle to Bobbie.
Examples: HiPP, Holle
6. Goat Milk-Based Formula
Some parents turn to goat milk-based formulas for easier digestion. While gentler for some, they are NOT safe for babies with cow’s milk allergy. We also don’t have great long term studies so we don’t routinely recommend goat’s milk formula.
Examples: Holle Goat, Kendamil Goat, Nannycare
7. Follow-Up or Toddler Formula
Marketed for ages 12– 24 months, these include extra nutrients but are not necessary for the vast majority of toddlers. Whole milk and solid foods often cover these needs. In general, would consider these a marketing scam and waste of money.
Examples: Enfagrow, Similac Go & Grow
Final Thoughts
Every baby is different, and every feeding journey is different and valid. Whether you’re choosing formula for ease, allergy, or nutrition, the best formula is the one that works for your baby and your family.
If you ever feel unsure, talk to your pediatrician or MPF about your baby’s needs, growth, digestion, and feeding patterns. They can help guide you to the best choice with no pressure and no shame.
References
American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP)
National Institutes of Health (NIH)
USDA & EFSA
Cleveland Clinic
World Health Organization (WHO)