Best Whole Milk Baby Formulas (2026 Guide)
This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Please read my disclosure.If you’ve been searching for a high-quality baby formula that’s as close to breast milk as possible, you’ve likely seen all kinds of terms: organic, non-GMO, lactose-based, and more. But there’s one often-overlooked feature that can make a huge difference for your baby: whole milk.
As a mom of two, certified nutritionist, and board-certified health coach, I’ve spent years researching baby formulas so you don’t have to. I’ve read labels, studied the science, spoken with other parents, and tried dozens of options to figure out what’s really the best. In this post, I’m diving into whole milk baby formulas: what they are, why they matter, and which ones are truly the best on the market today.
Whether you’re combo feeding, transitioning from breastfeeding, or exclusively formula feeding, I’ve got you covered!
What Is A Whole Milk Baby Formula?
Whole milk baby formula uses whole milk (with the natural milk fat intact) as the primary base, unlike most traditional formulas, which use skim or nonfat milk and then use a blend of vegetable oils to add fat back into the formula.
Why is that important? Whole milk contains natural milk fat, which is closer to the fat composition of breast milk. This can make whole milk formulas easier for babies to tolerate, especially when transitioning from breast milk to formula.
Historically, formulas were made with skim milk because it was cheaper, making formula affordable for more families, and some pediatricians still recommend skim milk formulas over whole milk.
That said, whole milk formulas are carefully balanced to meet infant nutritional needs, and formulas like Bobbie that made in the US are also FDA regulated, so while the milk base is richer, they’re still safe and complete for infants.
Why I Recommend Whole Milk Formulas
I’m often asked by parents, “What’s the best baby formula if I can’t breastfeed?” And while there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, I find that whole milk formulas often rise to the top because of their:
- Nutritional quality: closer in nutrition and mouthfeel to breast milk
- Taste and texture: they’re creamy, and babies often love them
- Reduced reliance on vegetable oils: less added fat needed
- High-quality ingredients: many are organic, non-GMO, and made from grass-fed dairy
- Gentle nature: can be easier to digest and better tolerated by some babies
I also appreciate that many of the best formulas come from brands that are transparent, science-driven, and founded by parents.
My Top Picks: The 5 Best Whole Milk Baby Formulas
These are the formulas I recommend most. All are nutritionally complete, meet US or EU regulations, and contain no corn syrup, no added sugars, and no artificial ingredients. I’m including my short list here, and for more details just scroll further down in this guide!
- 🥇 Best Overall, Best Organic: Bobbie Organic Whole Milk Formula
- 🐐 Best Organic Goat Milk Option: Jovie Organic Goat Milk Formula
- 🇬🇧 Best EU Organic Formula: Kendamil Organic
- 💰 Best Affordable Goat Formula: Kendamil Goat
- 🍼 Best Toddler Formula: Serenity Kids A2 Toddler Formula
A note on ByHeart: earlier versions of this guide featured ByHeart Whole Milk Infant Formula. In November 2025, ByHeart recalled all of its infant formula after C. botulinum was confirmed in unopened, unfed cans, and the resulting outbreak grew to 51 confirmed and probable cases nationwide. As of my last check, that recall is still in effect and I haven’t seen confirmation that ByHeart has resumed sales. I’ve removed it from this guide and will only add it back if the company can clearly show the issue has been resolved. If your baby has consumed ByHeart formula, stop immediately and talk to your pediatrician, since symptoms of infant botulism can take weeks to appear.
Whole Milk Infant Formula Details
Bobbie Organic Whole Milk Infant Formula
As a nutritionist and mom of two, I’ve reviewed just about every baby formula out there, and Bobbie’s Organic Whole Milk Formula is at the top of my list.
This was the first USDA Organic whole milk-based infant formula made in the US, and it still raises the bar. Unlike most American formulas that use skim milk and palm oil, Bobbie’s version is crafted with organic whole milk fat, closer to the fat composition of breast milk, and is free from palm oil, corn syrup, and soy allergens. The only carbohydrate source is lactose, just like in breast milk.
It uses a 60:40 whey-to-casein ratio for easy digestion and algae-based DHA (extracted using water, not hexane), which lowers the risk of mercury exposure and avoids the fish allergen you’ll find in formulas that use fish oil.
Every batch is tested for heavy metals and contaminants by a third party, all four Bobbie formulas have been named a Top Choice by Consumer Reports, and Bobbie was the first infant formula company to earn the Sorette Seal of Approval for its manufacturing and sourcing transparency.
Since the Nara Organics recall, Bobbie has also added PCR-based spore testing on incoming whole milk powder to screen for C. botulinum before production begins, something I personally value highly when recommending a formula to other parents.
Try This Formula If… You’re looking for an American-made formula that rivals top European brands in both quality and clean ingredients. If you want a formula made with whole milk fat, no added sugars, and that’s gentle on little tummies, this one’s a standout.
Cost: $28 per 400g can (about $0.07/gram) + $11.95 shipping without a subscription; $25.20 per 400g can + free shipping with subscription, a 10% savings.
Note: If you want a more affordable option from Bobbie that has organic whole milk, their Grass Fed Whole Milk Infant Formula uses mostly organic ingredients but not organic lactose (the Organic Whole Milk Formula reviewed here uses both organic whole milk and organic lactose).
Where To Buy: Bobbie’s website, Target, Walmart, Costco, Whole Foods
Pros
USDA Organic, Non-GMO
Organic whole milk base, contains MFGM
Close to breast milk in composition (60:40 whey:casein)
No palm oil, no soy allergens, no synthetic pesticides
No corn syrup, maltodextrin, syrup solids, or added sugar
Algae-based DHA, water extracted (no hexane, no fish oil)
Made in the US, FDA regulated
Clean Label Project Purity Award
Certified Pesticide Free, Third-party tested, Consumer Reports Top Choice
Easy to buy online
Cons
No added prebiotics or probiotics
Only one stage available (0–12 months)
Not suitable for babies with cow’s milk protein allergies
Jovie Organic Goat Milk Formula
If you’re looking for a clean, European-style formula that offers gentle digestion and a rich nutritional profile, Jovie Goat Milk Formula is one of my top picks.
I love that Jovie is made with organic whole goat milk, not skim like many goat milk formulas, and provides a naturally high-fat, breast milk-like composition with A2 milk proteins that are often easier on sensitive tummies.
It’s palm oil-free, soy-free, and contains no added sugars, maltodextrin, or corn syrup solids. Instead, Jovie uses lactose as the sole carbohydrate, just like breast milk, and includes DHA and prebiotics to support brain development and gut health.
One thing to note: Jovie does include fish oil, so it’s not vegetarian-friendly, but it’s completely free of artificial additives and is certified EU Organic, one of the strictest organic certifications in the world.
Try This Formula If… You’re looking for an ultra-clean, EU-organic goat milk formula that’s gentle on digestion and modeled after the fat profile of breast milk. Great for babies who are sensitive to cow’s milk but don’t have a diagnosed milk protein allergy.
Cost: $64.99 per 800g can (about $0.08/gram), with savings when ordering in bulk ($56.99/can when you order 24 cans).
Where To Buy: Available online only at OrganicsBestShop – a 3rd party seller of European formula in the US, who I personally have used and have vetted (and trust their supply chain).
Pros
Made with organic whole goat’s milk
EU Organic Certified, non-GMO
Naturally rich in A2 proteins (easier to digest than A1)
No palm oil, no soy allergens
No added sugars, maltodextrin, or corn syrup
Includes DHA and prebiotics
Available in multiple stages (0–6 months, 6–12 months, 12+ months)
Cons
More expensive than other whole milk formulas
Not FDA regulated (it is EU regulated)
Import only, availability may vary
Not suitable for CMPA or lactose intolerance
Does not include probiotics
Contains fish oil (not vegetarian)
Kendamil Organic Cow’s Milk Formula
When parents ask me for a European formula that’s creamy, clean, and packed with natural milk fats, Kendamil Organic is one of my first recommendations. Made in the UK, Kendamil uses organic whole cow’s milk, is certified EU organic, and is approved for sale in US stores, making it one of the only European formulas you can buy at Target.
I especially love that it’s palm oil-free, fish oil-free, and instead uses coconut oil and vegetarian DHA sourced from algae. It also includes prebiotics (HMOs) to support your baby’s gut health and immune system.
It’s also known for its naturally sweet, creamy taste, which can be a huge help when transitioning from breastfeeding to formula feeding. My personal experience, and feedback from hundreds of parents, is that babies love Kendamil’s flavor and it’s gentle on digestion.
Try This Formula If… You’re looking for a high-quality, affordable, EU-organic cow’s milk formula made with whole milk fat, vegetarian DHA, no palm oil, and a naturally sweet taste.
Cost: $43.49 for a single 800g can at Target (about $0.05/gram); or $52.99 online, with bulk 24-pack bundles bringing it down to around $46.99/can.
Where To Buy: Kendamil Organic is available in the US at Target, and can also be found online at 3rd party retailers like OrganicsBestShop.
Pros
Made with organic whole cow’s milk, EU organic certified
Red Tractor Certified
Palm oil-free and GMO-free
Includes vegetarian DHA (fish oil free)
Includes HMOs (prebiotics)
FDA regulated for sale in the US
One of the more affordable whole milk formulas
Cons
Imported – occasional delays or out-of-stock issues
Doesn’t include probiotics
Contains taurine, l-carnitine, and nucleotides (naturally sourced, not hexane extracted)
Not suitable for babies with a cow’s milk protein allergy
Kendamil Goat Milk Baby Formula
If you’re looking for a gentle, more affordable, goat milk formula and your little one has a sensitive tummy, Kendamil Goat is one of my top recommendations.
This EU-made formula contains full-fat whole goat milk and naturally contains A2 protein, which tends to be easier for some babies to digest compared to the A1 protein found in most cow’s milk.
I love that Kendamil Goat is palm oil-free and fish oil-free, and it uses vegetarian DHA sourced from algae instead. It also includes prebiotics (HMOs) to help support gut health.
Although it’s not a hypoallergenic formula (and not appropriate for babies with a diagnosed cow’s milk protein allergy or severe lactose intolerance), Kendamil Goat is a great option for families wanting a more easily digestible, whole milk-based alternative to traditional cow’s milk formulas.
Try This Formula If… Your baby struggles with mild dairy sensitivities and you want a gentle, affordable, nutrient-dense formula made from whole goat’s milk and free from palm oil.
Cost: $44.99 for an 800 gram can at Target (about $0.05 / gram) Approximately $65.99 for an 800 gram can when imported from Europe via OrganicsBest.
Where To Buy: At Target or via a 3rd party European distributor like OrganicsBest.
Pros
Naturally contains A2 protein (easier on digestion)
Non-GMO
Palm oil free
Vegetarian DHA (fish oil free)
Includes prebiotics
Affordable when purchased at Target
FDA regulated for sale in the US
Cons
Imported, which means it can sometimes be harder to find in the U.S.
Doesn’t contain probiotics
Isn’t organic
Not hypoallergenic (not suitable for CMPA)
Serenity Kids Whole Milk Toddler Formula
I’m always on the lookout for toddler formulas that prioritize clean, whole food ingredients, and Serenity Kids really stands out.
This is one of the only toddler-specific formulas made with organic A2 whole milk from grass-fed cows, plus it includes DHA, prebiotics, and healthy fats like olive oil.
I especially love that it’s completely free from seed oils, soy, palm oil, and corn syrup, making it a great choice for sensitive tummies. Serenity Kids also sources from farms that use regenerative farming practices, which means it’s better for your child and the planet.
It’s important to note this formula is not intended for infants. If your toddler is 12+ months and you’re looking for a high-fat, nutrient-dense option that mirrors the nourishing qualities of breast milk, this one checks all the boxes.
Try This Formula If… You want a whole milk toddler formula that’s high in healthy fats, supports continued growth after weaning, and avoids unnecessary additives or seed oils.
Cost: $39.09 for a 595 gram can (about $0.06/gram)
Where To Buy: On Amazon or on Serenity Kids’ website.
Pros
Made with organic A2 whole milk from grass-fed cows
Includes DHA and prebiotics
Free from palm oil, soy, seed oils, corn syrup, and gluten
Toddler-specific formulation (12 months+)
Produced using regenerative agriculture
Clean Label Project Purity Award
Certified Pesticide Free
Cons
Not suitable for infants
Not certified organic, though many ingredients are organic
Not always in stock on Serenity Kids’ website
No probiotics included
What To Look For In A Whole Milk Formula
Ingredients To Look For
I’ve spent over 12 years researching baby formulas, so here are the features I prioritize when recommending one:
✅ Certified Organic (either USDA-certified organic or EU-certified organic) and Non-GMO
✅ Whole milk base, made with grass-fed, pasture-raised dairy
✅ Meets nutritional standards for babies (US or EU), including key vitamins and minerals for development.
✅ No added sugar, corn syrup, maltodextrin, sucrose, or syrup solids (lactose should be the only carbohydrate) (Source).
✅ Whey-to-casein ratio that matches mature breast milk (60:40)
✅ Contains DHA and ARA, ideally water or algae extracted (Source).
✅ Includes prebiotics and probiotics when possible, though the research on added benefit is mixed, so don’t rule out a formula that skips these. (Learn More: Prebiotics For Kids).
✅ Gluten-free and soy-free (organic soybean oil and lecithin are fine)
✅ Palm oil free (or uses palmitic acid, or sustainable palm oil. Learn more: Palm Oil In Baby Formula)
✅ Free of carrageenan and artificial preservatives
✅ No hexane-extracted ingredients, or undetectable post-extraction
✅ Mixes easily, with good parent reviews for tolerance
✅ Transparent sourcing and testing
✅ Suits your budget
Ingredients To Avoid
❌ Processed Sugars (Syrup, Syrup Solids): Corn syrup solids, maltodextrin, sugar, or brown rice syrup are cheaper than lactose, which is what should be in formula. (Source).
❌ GMOs: Recognized as safe by the FDA, but often grown using more pesticides, which can leave trace amounts in the final product. (Source 1, Source 2).
❌ Hexane Extraction: Oils or synthetic nutrients (DHA, ARA) extracted using hexane, a petroleum-based solvent.
❌ Carrageenan: Typically added as a stabilizer to ready-to-feed formulas in the US; not allowed in the EU and linked to intestinal inflammation. (Source).
❌ Palm Oil: Can cause digestive issues, including harder stools, in some babies. (Source).
❌ Soy Protein: Soy protein (and soy formula) may be problematic for infants because of their phytoestrogen content (Source: Check out this study about soy).
FAQs
Is whole milk formula better than skim milk formula?
It depends on your baby’s needs, but whole milk formulas are often better tolerated and closer to the natural fat profile of breast milk. They also contain more naturally occurring milk fat, which reduces the need for added vegetable oils, and the MFGM can support brain development and digestion. Personally, I’d choose a whole milk formula over a skim milk formula.
Can newborns have whole milk formula?
Yes, as long as it’s a formula designed for infants and is nutritionally complete, whole milk baby formulas are safe from birth. Just make sure your pediatrician is ok with whichever formula you choose, and make sure it’s not regular cow’s milk, which isn’t safe for babies under 1.
Why is whole milk formula easier to digest for babies?
Many babies do well on whole milk formulas because they contain the milk fat that’s naturally present in breast milk. This can make them gentler on the digestive system, especially if they’re free from palm oil and unnecessary fillers.
Is all goat milk formula considered whole milk formula?
Not necessarily. I’ve listed the goat milk formulas here that use whole goat’s milk, but some formulas use skimmed goat’s milk instead.
What happened to ByHeart formula?
ByHeart recalled all of its Whole Nutrition infant formula in November 2025 after C. botulinum was confirmed in unopened cans, and the outbreak was linked to 51 confirmed and probable cases of infant botulism nationwide. If your baby consumed ByHeart formula, stop feeding it to them immediately and contact your pediatrician, since symptoms can take weeks to appear. I’ve removed it from this guide and will only add it back if the company can show the issue has been fully resolved.
Final Thoughts
Finding the right formula for your baby can feel overwhelming, but if you’re leaning toward whole milk formulas, you’re already on the right track. These formulas are nourishing, closer to breast milk in fat composition, and can be a great fit for babies who need something gentle and nutrient-rich.
I hope this guide helped you narrow down the best whole milk formula options for your little one! If you still have questions or want to share your experience with any of these formulas, drop me a comment below or send me a message. I read and respond to every one!
And if you’re just starting your formula journey, don’t forget to check out some of my other popular guides:
👉 [Best Organic Baby Formulas]
👉 [Best Hypoallergenic Baby Formulas]
👉 [Best Baby Formulas For Constipation]
