Best Organic Baby Formula (2026 Guide)
This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Please read my disclosure.When I was researching formula for my kids, I spent weeks reading labels in the baby aisle and scrolling through ingredient lists online at 2 a.m. I wanted organic, but I also needed to understand what that actually meant. Was European formula really better? Did I need goat milk? What about all those scary ingredients I kept reading about?
The truth is, choosing formula felt overwhelming. But after consulting with pediatricians, reviewing over 65 different brands, and testing formulas with both my kids, I’ve narrowed down the cleanest, highest-quality organic options available today.
This guide will help you find the best organic baby formula for your little one without the confusion or endless research. Whether you’re supplementing, exclusively formula feeding, or transitioning from breastfeeding, you’ll find a safe, nutritious option here.
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A Quick Note On Feeding
I strongly believe that FED is best. Whether you breastfeed for a year, six months, or not at all doesn’t make you a better or worse parent. I nursed my daughter for eight months before switching to formula, and it was one of the hardest decisions I made as a new mom. With my son, I supplemented from two months onwards because he was eating way more than I could produce! Both kids are healthy and thriving.
If you need formula, don’t feel guilty about it. Your baby needs you happy and healthy more than anything else.
Top Picks: Best Organic Baby Formulas
Here’s my at-a-glance view of the top organic formulas for different needs:
- Best USDA Organic And EU Organic Formula: Bobbie Organic Infant Formula
- Best Overall Organic Formula: HiPP Dutch
- Best Whole Milk Formula (US Made): Bobbie Organic Whole Milk Infant Formula
- Best Whole Milk Formula (Made In Europe): Nara Organics
- Best For Breastfed Babies: Kendamil Organic
- Best Goat Milk Formula: Jovie Goat
- Best Budget-Friendly Organic Formula: Baby’s Only Organic A2 Infant Formula
- Best European Formula (Budget): Holle PRE & Holle Stage 1
- Best Hypoallergenic Formula: HiPP HA
Disclaimer & Methodology
This guide is based on over 200 hours of research including peer reviewed studies, consultations with pediatricians and dietitians, collecting feedback from thousands of parents, and personal experience with my two kids. I’m a board-certified health coach and certified nutritionist, and this post has been medically reviewed by Katie Drakeford, MA, RD, CSP, LD, CLC (see my about page for more info about Katie). My recommendations are not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your pediatrician before starting or switching formulas.
This post contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through my links at no extra cost to you. I only recommend products I’ve personally researched or used with my own children.
What To Look For In Organic Baby Formula
Before we get into specific brands, here’s what I prioritize when choosing formula:
✅ Certified Organic (USDA or EU certified)
✅ No added sugars, sucrose, syrup solids, or maltodextrin (lactose should be the main carbohydrate)
✅ Contains DHA and ARA for brain and eye development
✅ Includes prebiotics and probiotics when possible (Learn More: Prebiotics For Kids)
✅ 60:40 whey-to-casein ratio (mimics mature breast milk)
✅ No hexane-extracted DHA (or undetectable after extraction)
✅ Palm oil-free (or uses sustainable palm oil, learn more: Palm Oil In Baby Formula)
✅ Non-GMO
✅ No Carrageenan
✅ Good parent reviews for tolerance and mixing
The 8 Best Organic Baby Formulas
1. HiPP Dutch – Best Overall Organic Formula
What It Is: EU-certified organic formula with a complete nutritional profile
Age Range: 0-6 months (Stage 1), 6+ months (Stage 2)
Why I Love It: HiPP Dutch is one of my top picks when it comes to organic baby formula. It has a whey-to-casein ratio that mimics breast milk, contains both prebiotics and probiotics, and includes DHA and ARA for brain development. The formula is free from GMOs, added sugars, starch, soy, and synthetic preservatives.
I tested HiPP Dutch with my daughter when she was four months old, and she took to it immediately (my son did too when he was born!) The powder mixes easily (even at 3 a.m. when you’re half asleep), and I didn’t notice any increase in spit-up or fussiness. The container is also easier to use than some European brands since it comes in an airtight can instead of a foil-lined box.
The one downside is that HiPP uses hexane to extract DHA and ARA. However, when I spoke to their team, they claimed that all hexane is removed and undetectable in the final product. Given Europe’s strict testing standards, I feel comfortable with this.
Also Good:
- HiPP UK Stage 1 ($36.99-$42.99): Similar to HiPP Dutch but more affordable. Contains prebiotics (but no probiotics) and comes in a box instead of a can. Great budget-friendly European option.
- HiPP PRE Germany ($28.99-$37.99): Designed for babies 0-3 months. Contains both prebiotics and probiotics. More affordable than HiPP Dutch and comes in a box.
Price: $42.99-$48.99 per 28.2oz container (depending on quantity purchased)
Where To Buy: Organic’s Best, Baby Milk Bar, Bottles & Burps
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Mimics breast milk composition | Contains palm oil |
| Contains prebiotics and probiotics | Uses hexane extraction (though removed) |
| EU Organic certified, non-GMO | Not available in US stores (online only) |
| No added sugars or maltodextrin | |
| Easy-to-use container | |
| Contains DHA & ARA |
2. Bobbie – Best US-Made Organic Formula
What It Is: USDA organic, European-style formula made in the US
Options: Organic Infant Formula (skim milk), Organic Whole Milk Infant Formula, Grass Fed Whole Milk (Not Organic)
Age Range: 0-12 months
Why I Love It: Bobbie is the best organic formula made in the US, and it’s the only American brand that meets EU standards for DHA content. Made with milk from Organic Valley pasture-raised cows, this formula is as close as you can get to European quality without importing. Bobbie was created by a mom, Laura Modi, who developed Bobbie after feeling frustrated over a lack of clean formula options for her baby.
Bobbie offers three infant formulas: their Original Organic Infant Formula (made with organic skim milk), their Grass Fed Whole Milk Formula (not organic, made with whole milk) and their newer Organic Whole Milk Infant Formula (made with organic whole milk). The whole milk version has the highest milk fat content of any formula Bobbie makes, with less added vegetable oils since whole milk naturally contains more fat.
I love that Bobbie doesn’t use hexane to extract DHA (though they do use it for ARA extraction, but it’s undetectable in the final product). Both formulas have a 60:40 whey-to-casein ratio, are modeled after breast milk, and are completely free of palm oil, soy oil, corn syrup, and maltodextrin. And I know I can trust their formula, especially because they were awarded the Clean Label Purity Project award.
When my nephew transitioned from breastfeeding after 8 months, Bobbie’s Original formula was what worked best for him. He didn’t have any digestive issues, and I know we all felt good that he was getting grass-fed organic nutrition. I’ve heard from other moms who prefer the Whole Milk version for their babies.
The only thing missing is prebiotics and probiotics, which you’ll need to supplement separately if you want them. (Learn more: Best Probiotics For Kids). Honestly, if Bobbie included prebiotics and probiotics in their formula, they would be my #1 pick overall too!
Price: $23.40 per 14.1oz can (subscription), $26.49 at Target
Where To Buy: Bobbie website, Target stores nationwide
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| USDA Organic certified, FDA regulated | No prebiotics |
| Made in the US, available at Target | No probiotics |
| 60:40 whey:casein ratio | |
| Meets EU DHA standards | |
| No palm oil, soy oil, corn syrup, or maltodextrin | |
| Lactose is the only carbohydrate | |
| Affordable compared to European formulas | |
| Clean Label Purity Award and Pesticide Free certified | |
| Three options: original (skim milk), grass fed, and whole milk formula |
3. Nara Organics – Best Whole Milk Formula Made In Europe
What It Is: USDA organic whole milk formula, made in Germany
Age Range: 0-12 months
Why I Love It: Nara Organics is a brand-new formula that just launched in 2025 and it is the first and only USDA-certified organic formula made with whole milk and no skim milk. Nara has the highest percentage of milk fat of any formula sold in the US, which means less added vegetable oils. The founder, Esther Hallam, created this formula after struggling to find a clean organic option when her daughter was born.
Made in a state-of-the-art facility in Germany and meeting both EU and US safety standards, Nara underwent a large-scale clinical trial with infants to demonstrate safety and efficacy. The formula includes naturally occurring MFGM (milk fat globule membrane), prebiotics (GOS), and EU-required levels of DHA and ARA for brain development.
What sets Nara apart is the focus on whole milk fats. The formula uses organic whole milk as the primary fat source, then adds a small amount of organic plant-based oils (coconut, sunflower, rapeseed) for essential fatty acids. It’s completely free of palm oil, soy, corn syrup, maltodextrin, and GMOs.
Nara was awarded the Clean Label Purity Award, which means it’s been rigorously tested for contaminants like heavy metals and pesticides. The formula has a 60:40 whey-to-casein ratio (just like mature breast milk) and uses lactose as the only carbohydrate.
Price: $45 per 24.7 oz can, $40.50 per can for 4-can subscription
Where to buy: Nara.com, Target.com
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| USDA Organic certified, FDA regulated | Brand new (launched 2025), so less long-term parent reviews |
| 60:40 whey:casein ratio | Mainly available online (limited availability in stores) |
| Meets EU standards, made in Germany | No probiotics |
| No palm oil, soy, corn syrup, or maltodextrin | |
| Lactose is the only carbohydrate | |
| Contains MFGM, prebiotics, DHA, and ARA | |
| Clean Label Purity Project Award | |
| Highest milk fat percentage of any formula |
4. Kendamil Organic – Best European Whole Milk Formula
What It Is: UK organic formula made with whole milk
Age Range: 0-6 months (Stage 1), 6+ months (Stage 2)
Kendamil is similar to Nara Organics and Bobbie’s Whole Milk formula because it’s made organic whole milk instead of skim milk, which means less added vegetable oils. It contains HMOs (human milk oligosaccharides), a prebiotic that supports immune health, and includes DHA and ARA.
The formula is completely free of palm oil and soy oil, and uses coconut oil as one of the main fat sources. Parents consistently mention that Kendamil smells sweet and tastes good, making it one of the best options for picky breastfed babies who are resistant to formula.
I recommended Kendamil to many parents during the formula shortage in 2022, and heard good feedback that it mixed well and most babies took to it without fussiness.
The formula doesn’t contain probiotics, so you’d need to add those separately if you want them. It also contains taurine, l-carnitine, and nucleotides, but Kendamil doesn’t use chemical solvents to extract these nutrients.
Price: $42.49 for a 28.2oz container at Target, $41.13 with subscription – $52.99 per 28oz container online
Where To Buy: Target, Bottles & Burps, Organic’s Best
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Made with organic whole milk | No probiotics |
| Lactose is the only carbohydrate | |
| Contains HMOs for immune support | |
| No palm oil or soy oil | |
| Contains prebiotics, DHA, ARA (non-hexane extracted) | |
| Available online and at Target | |
| Clean Label Purity Project Award | |
| Highest milk fat percentage of any formula |
5. Jovie Goat – Best Goat Milk Formula
What It Is: EU organic goat milk infant formula
Age Range: 0-6 months (Stage 1), 6+ months (Stage 2)
Why I Love It: Jovie is the best goat milk formula available, and it’s a great option for babies who have trouble digesting cow’s milk. Made with organic whole A2 goat milk, this formula is easier on sensitive tummies since goat milk contains only A2 protein (versus both A1 and A2 in cow’s milk).
The ingredients are 100% organic and non-GMO, with added prebiotics and a whey-to-casein ratio similar to breast milk. Jovie is also free of glucose syrup solids, maltodextrin, palm oil, and soy oil.
I recommended Jovie to a friend whose baby was having constant spit-up and gas on cow’s milk formula. Within three days of switching to Jovie, her baby was sleeping better and much less fussy.
One thing to note: Jovie uses fish oil for DHA, so it’s not vegetarian-friendly. It also doesn’t contain probiotics. (Learn More: Jovie Formula Review).
Price: $56.99-$64.99 per 28.2oz container (depending on number ordered)
Where To Buy: Organic’s Best, Baby Milk Bar
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Made with A2 organic whole goat milk | No probiotics |
| EU Organic certified | Expensive |
| No palm oil or soy oil | Not vegetarian (contains fish oil) |
| Contains prebiotics | |
| Contains DHA/ARA | |
| Can be easier to digest than cow’s milk | |
| No added sugars |
6. Baby’s Only Organic – Best Budget-Friendly US Formula
What It Is: USDA organic formula available in US stores
Age Range: 0-12 months (infant formula) and 12+ months (toddler formula)
Why I Love It: Baby’s Only Organic is the most affordable USDA organic formula you can buy in the US. It’s made with organic A2 milk, is non-GMO, and is Clean Label Purity project certified. The formula contains no palm oil, no corn syrup, and no glucose syrup solids.
Baby’s Only is free of syrup solids and added sugars, and while it doesn’t contain DHA, ARA, prebiotics or probiotics, I like Baby’s Only for parents who want organic nutrition on a budget. The formula has full-fat nutrition and a simple ingredients list. It’s been a trusted brand for over 20 years and is widely available both online and in stores.
Price: $30 per 21oz can
Where to buy: Amazon, natural grocery stores like Sprouts
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Affordable organic option | No probiotics |
| No palm oil | No DHA or ARA |
| Clean Label Purity Project certified | No prebiotics |
| Contains prebiotics | |
| Available in stores and online |
7. Holle PRE – Best Budget European Formula
What It Is: Demeter biodynamic certified organic formula from Germany
Age Range: [PRE] 0-3 months, [Stage 1] 0-6 months, [Stage 2] 6+months
Why I Love It: Holle PRE is one of the most affordable European formulas, and it carries a Demeter biodynamic certification, which is even stricter than regular organic standards. This ensures the highest animal welfare standards and commitment to sustainability.
The formula is simple and clean, with organic ingredients and no added maltodextrin (though Stage 2 does contain some). Holle PRE now includes DHA and ARA, which wasn’t always the case with older formulations.
I like Holle PRE for parents who want to supplement with their own probiotics and prebiotics. The formula doesn’t include these, so you have full control over what you’re adding.
One limitation is that Holle PRE is designed for babies 0-6 months (ideally 0-3 months). After that, you’ll need to switch to Stage 1 or Stage 2. Additionally Holle (across all stages) doesn’t have a whey:casein ratio that matches breastmilk, so that might cause digestive discomfort in some babies
Price: $21.85-$27.49 per 400 gram box
Where To Buy: Organic’s Best, Baby Milk Bar, Bottles & Burps
Also Good:
- Holle Goat Stage 1 ($25.71-$33.99): Made with organic A2 goat milk. Bioland certified. Good option for babies sensitive to cow’s milk, though the whey-to-casein ratio doesn’t mimic breast milk, which can be constipating for some babies. Contains maltodextrin.
- Holle Bio Stage 1 ($21.85-$27.49): Similar to Holle PRE but for ages 0-6 months. Demeter certified. Contains DHA and ARA. Includes maltodextrin (unlike Holle PRE).
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Affordable European formula | No probiotics |
| Demeter biodynamic certified | No prebiotics |
| EU Organic certified | Stage 1 & 2 contains maltodextrin |
| Contains DHA and ARA | Whey:casein ratio doesn’t match mature breastmilk |
| No maltodextrin in PRE stage |
8. HiPP HA – Best Hypoallergenic Formula
What It Is: European hypoallergenic formula for cow’s milk sensitivities
Age Range: 0-3 months (Stage PRE), 0-6 months (Stage 1), 6+ months (Stage 2)
HiPP HA is the best option if your baby has a cow’s milk protein sensitivity (but not a full allergy). The formula contains extensively hydrolyzed protein (86-87% broken down), which is easier for sensitive tummies to digest.
It’s 100% whey with no casein, and includes prebiotics, probiotics, DHA, and ARA. The lactose content is the same as regular formula, so if your baby has severe lactose intolerance, this may not work.
A friend of mine switched to HiPP HA after her baby had constant gas and fussiness on regular formula. Within a week, her baby was sleeping through the night and much happier overall.
While HiPP HA isn’t technically certified organic (because the hydrolyzed protein requires more processing), all other ingredients are organic.
Price: $31.71-$42.99 per 600 gram container
Where To Buy: Organic’s Best, Baby Milk Bar
Also Good:
- HiPP Comfort ($30.85-$42.99): Meant to relieve gas, fussiness, and digestive discomfort, HiPP Comfort is even more broken down than HiPP HA. Contains extensively hydrolyzed protein, (86-87% broken down), 100% whey (no casein), reduced lactose content and modified fats.
- HiPP AR ($30.85-$40.99): Meant to ease reflux in infants, HiPP AR contains locust bean gum that thickens the formula slightly to prevent reflux and/or reduce spit up.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Hydrolyzed protein for easier digestion | Not fully organic |
| No casein (100% whey) | Regular lactose content (not suitable for severe lactose intolerance) |
| Contains prebiotics | May not work for diagnosed cow’s milk protein allergy |
| Contains probiotics | |
| Includes DHA and ARA | |
| No added sugars |
Organic Baby Formula Comparison Chart
Here’s a quick side-by-side comparison of all the formulas featured in this guide:
| Formula Brand | Type Of Milk | Pre-biotics | Pro-biotics | DHA & ARA | Palm Oil? | Soy Oil? | Malto-dextrin | Price Per Can |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| HiPP Dutch | Organic Skim Milk, Whey | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | Yes | No | No | $42.99 – $48.99 |
| Bobbie Original | Organic Skim Milk, Whey | No | No | ✓ | No | No | No | $25 |
| Bobbie Whole Milk | Organic Whole Milk, Skim Milk, Whey | No | No | ✓ | No | No | No | $28 |
| Nara Organics | Organic Whole Milk | ✓ (GOS) | No | ✓ | No | No | No | $45 |
| Kendamil Organic | Organic Whole Milk, Skim Milk, Whey | ✓ (HMOs) | No | ✓ | No | No | No | $41.13 – $52.99 |
| Jovie Goat | Organic Whole Goat Milk | ✓ | No | ✓ | No | No | No | $56.99 – $64.99 |
| Baby’s Only Organic | Organic Grass-Fed Milk, Skim Milk, Whey | ✓ | No | ✓ (DHA only) | No | No | No | $30 |
| Holle PRE | Organic Whole Milk, Whey | No | No | ✓ | Yes | No | No | $21.85 – $27.49 |
| HiPP HA | Hydro-lyzed Whey (No Casein) | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | Yes | No | No | $31.71 – $42.99 |
| HiPP UK | Organic Skim Milk, Whey | ✓ | No | ✓ | Yes | No | No | $36.99 – $42.99 |
| HiPP PRE Germany | Organic Skim Milk, Whey | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | Yes | No | No | $28.99 – $37.99 |
| Holle Goat | Organic Goat Milk | No | No | ✓ | Yes | No | Yes | $25.71 – $33.99 |
| Holle Bio Stage 1 | Organic Skim Milk, Whey | No | No | ✓ | Yes | No | Yes | $21.85 – $27.49 |
Key: ✓ = Contains this ingredient/feature; No = does not contain; Yes = contains
Notes:
- All formulas listed are certified organic (USDA or EU)
- All formulas are non-GMO
- All formulas use lactose as the primary carbohydrate (no corn syrup solids)
- DHA extraction methods vary by brand (some use hexane extraction with undetectable residue, others use fish oil or algae)
European vs. American Baby Formula
You’ll notice that many of my top picks are European formulas. Here’s why:
European formulas have stricter standards:
- No corn syrup solids or processed sugars allowed
- Minimum 30% of calories must come from lactose
- No synthetic nutrients extracted with chemical solvents
- More transparent testing for trace contaminants
- Required DHA in all formulas (not required in US)
US formulas are improving: Brands like Bobbie are now meeting EU standards while being made in the US. This gives you European-quality nutrition with the convenience of buying at Target.
Both EU and US organic formulas must be 95% organic and free from growth hormones, GMOs, and antibiotics. The main difference is that Europe regulates more strictly when it comes to added ingredients and testing standards.
All US-based formulas are regulated by the FDA, and all European formulas are regulated by the European Commission, which also certifies formulas as organic. Additionally, Europe has designations that are “beyond organic” like “Demeter” which essentially means biodynamic farming on top of organic farming.
A note on organic labeling: Certified organic does not mean the same thing as “made with organic ingredients.” If a package has the label “made with organic ingredients,” it means that only 70% of the ingredients are organic, not 95%. (source).
Understanding Formula Stages (European Formulas)
European formulas come in stages to match your baby’s changing nutritional needs:
- Stage PRE/1 (0-6 months): Gentlest formula, often 100% lactose-based, less iron since babies have iron stores until 6 months
- Stage 2 (6-10 months): More iron, adjusted vitamins and minerals for growing babies
- Stage 3 (10-12+ months): Designed to supplement solid foods
US formulas typically have one stage for 0-12 months, then a separate toddler formula for 12+ months.
What About Palm Oil And Hexane?
I have heard from so many parents that two of the most common ingredients that concern parents are palm oil and hexane-extracted DHA.
Palm Oil: Palm oil is added to mimic palmitic acid in breast milk, but it can cause digestive issues in some babies. It reacts with calcium in the gut and may lead to constipation or harder stools. Formulas like Bobbie, Kendamil, and Jovie are palm oil-free, which I prefer.
Hexane-Extracted DHA: Hexane is a petroleum-based solvent used to extract DHA and ARA from algae. While this sounds scary, the hexane is removed after extraction and should be undetectable in European formulas due to strict testing.
If this concerns you, I recommend choosing formulas that use non-hexane extracted DHA (like Bobbie or Kendamil).
Best Supplements For Baby Formula
I have gotten a lot of questions about what to supplement with if your baby is on a formula that doesn’t have DHA added, what probiotic to use, or what to do if your baby is getting some breast milk along with their formula (in which case you need to add Vitamin D). Here’s what I recommend:
Best Vitamin D Drops: Bobbie Vitamin D Drops (USDA organic, vegan, Clean Label certified, only 3 drops per day)
Best Probiotic Drops: Bobbie Probiotic Drops (1 billion live cultures, can be mixed into anything, helps with colic and crying)
Best Prebiotics: BeginHealth (for infants 0-12 months, no artificial flavors or stabilizers)
Best DHA Supplement: Nordic Naturals Baby’s DHA (pure, no preservatives, includes Vitamin D)
Ingredients To Avoid In Baby Formula
Here are the ingredients that I recommend avoiding in baby formula, whenever possible:
❌ Corn Syrup Solids/Maltodextrin: Cheaper alternatives to lactose that provide empty calories without nutritional benefit.
❌ GMOs: May contain trace pesticides.
❌ Hexane-Extracted DHA/ARA: While DHA and ARA are important for brain development, some are extracted using hexane (a neurotoxic solvent). Look for formulas with non-hexane extracted versions or algae-based DHA.
❌ Carrageenan: Added as a stabilizer in ready-to-feed formulas; linked to intestinal inflammation and banned in EU.
❌ Palm Oil: Can bind with calcium in baby’s gut, causing digestive issues and harder stools.
❌ Soy Protein: May contain phytoestrogens that may not be suitable for infants. Always consult your pediatrician before using soy formula. (Source: Check out this study about soy).
FAQs
What is the closest formula to breast milk?
Any formula with a 60:40 whey-to-casein ratio and key vitamins and minerals is very close to breast milk. HiPP Dutch, Bobbie, Kendamil, and Nara Organics all mimic breast milk composition.
Is organic formula really better?
Organic formulas are free from antibiotics, chemical fertilizers, hormones, and pesticides. While research doesn’t show huge long-term health advantages, many parents (including myself) prefer organic for peace of mind. If you can afford it, it’s worth the investment.
However, not all families may be able to choose organic formula, in which case I firmly believe that fed is best, and you should choose the formula that works for your budget and your baby. Other considerations such as price, or needing a hypoallergenic formula (which by definition will not be organic due to the hydrolyzed proteins), or availability should also be kept in mind when choosing a formula.
How long is baby formula good for?
Most formulas need to be used within one month of opening. Unopened formula is typically good for 6-12 months (check the expiration date on the container).
Can you mix formulas?
Technically yes, but this can be tricky. If you want to mix formulas (to transition between brands or because your baby does well with a blend), consult your pediatrician first to make sure you’re following correct mixing instructions.
How do I know which baby formula to choose?
Here are some steps to help you make an informed choice when deciding which is the right formula for your baby:
1) Talk to your pediatrician first – they can provide recommendations based on your baby’s specific needs.
2) Determine the type of formula – cow’s milk, goat’s milk, hypoallergenic, vegan, etc. based on your baby’s age and any allergies or dietary restrictions.
3) Consider the ingredients list and choose formulas that have no sugar or syrup solids added, are non GMO and/or organic, contain DHA/ARA, and meet your baby’s nutritional requirements.
4) Consider cost & budget! Always choose a formula that meets your budget constraints.
What if my baby doesn’t like the formula I chose?
Not every baby likes every formula. Some formulas can cause constipation or upset stomach in certain babies while keeping others perfectly happy. If you try a formula and it doesn’t work after 4-6 weeks, it’s ok to switch to something else.
Other Helpful Resources
I have specific guides for each type of formula, if you’re looking for more detailed information! Here are my guides to the best goat milk formula, the best hypoallergenic formula, the best toddler formula, and the best vegan baby formula.
If you’re choosing a European formula, I also have translated instructions and guides for each one! Here they are: HiPP Dutch, HiPP PRE Germany, Holle PRE, Holle Bio, Holle Goat
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right formula for your baby is a personal decision, and there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. What works for one baby might not work for another, and that’s completely normal. If you try the formulas I recommend and they don’t work for your baby, that is ok!
If you can afford organic European formulas like HiPP or Kendamil, or European style options like Bobbie, those are your best bets. And if you’re on a tight budget, just try to find a formula free of syrup solids, maltodextrin and added starches.
The most important thing is that your baby is fed, healthy, and happy. Whether you breastfeed, formula feed, or do a combination of both doesn’t define you as a parent.
You’re doing an amazing job. Trust your instincts, consult your pediatrician, and know that you’re making the best choice for your family. I hope this post helped you find the right baby formula for you and your little one!
I know this is an old post, but I am hoping for some help. I am wanting to order Lebenswert or Hipp but my issue is I can’t decide how much I need. According to what I can find, I need to use double the scoops I do with US formula (US is 1 scoop per 2 ounces water, these are 1 scoop per 1 ounce) meaning my math is showing I need to order almost double what I use in the US. So my cost is looking at doubling what I spend now on Baby’s only. However, a review on the baby’s only site claims Hipp and Lebenswert is cheaper. So now I think my math is off. Can anyone tell me how many ounces a box will make?
Hi Lauren! That’s a good question — one box of HiPP will make 150oz of prepared formula. You can see all of the details here. Hope that helps! Let me know if you have any other questions!
Hi Anjali. I live in the Metro Detroit area and have recently taken my newborn in for a well exam. The pediatrician wasn’t too fond of using Hipp’s formula as she thought the formula was low in iron compared to other formulas here in the United States. I am still choosing to use Hipp’s formula as I feel the ingredients and composition is much better in comparison to other brands found here in the United States. I know this is question is a little far fetched, but I was wondering if you could recommend a pediatrician in the area? I would be interested in one who’s views are a little more similar to mine. Thanks 🙂
Hi Sabrina! So good to meet a fellow Michigander! 🙂 To your question — I wish I could give you a good rec but since I live in Ann Arbor I only know of good pediatricians in the Ann Arbor area! You are definitely doing the right thing by sticking with HiPP though – the iron is really a non-issue because babies have iron stores until 6 months, and then the iron in HiPP Stage 2 should be sufficient along with solids. I hope you find a pediatrician that supports your formula choices! Let me know if you have any other questions or if there is anything else I can help with!
Hi, What do you recommend for Lactose Sensitive babies? I gave my baby Hipp Stage 2 Dutch and she immediately got a face rash and spit up. Since then we’ve tried Gentlease and Baby’s Only Lactorelief with no issue. Right now I’m giving her Baby’s Only Lactorelief but I wanted to see if there was something better I should try?
Also I am hearing rumors of OrganicStart.com and the like not able to sell anymore european formulas in the US? Have you heard this?
Hi Kate! For lactose sensitive babies I recommend HiPP HA – here is the link to the Stage 2 HA formula. HiPP HA has better ingredients than Baby’s Only Lactorelief (HiPP HA has no brown rice syrup or soy oil) so it’s definitely worth a try! And yes, OrganicStart and all US based sellers of European formula have been targeted by the FDA (who is trying to shut them down). Right now, OrganicStart and the other US companies can only accept orders from existing customers, so if you are an existing customer you can still buy from them! (I updated my post with that info too in case you want to read more about it!) If you aren’t an existing customer, I have found an amazing and reputable EU-based seller of HiPP/Holle/Lebenswert that ships free to the US in 1-3 business days: Organic Baby Food. I’d highly recommend them and have been in touch with the owner personally so if you have any issues ordering from them I can put you in direct contact with him (he is very responsive). Hope that helps, let me know if you have any other questions!
Thank you so much!
I had read that hydrolized formula couldn’t be organic whereas “denatured” formula such as baby’s only could be organic. Or at least that’s what I thought I read. I also wasn’t sure if Hipp HA formula was the same as Alimentum/Nutramigen which I heard had a lot of negative side effects (smell, sodium etc).
Thanks again for such a quick response.
Hi Kate! Ok so I’ll answer your two questions separately. HiPP HA is far far superior to Nutramigen / Alimentum. Nutramigen’s ingredients are horrible (you can see them here). The first ingredient is corn syrup solids, it contains both palm oil and soy oil, hexane extracted DHA, taurine, L‑carnitine (very processed ingredients) — and it’s all not organic. Same with Alimentum (you can see the ingredients here) – the first ingredient is corn maltodextrin (super high glycemic sugar), and the third ingredient is sugar followed by soy oil, hexane extracted DHA and taurine — all not organic. Compare that to HiPP HA (you can see the ingredients here) – which uses just lactose and whey protein (it does have hexane extracted DHA but at least it’s organic, same with palm oil). It doesn’t have any weird added sugars or processed ingredients – and I haven’t heard parents complain about bad side effects from it the way I have heard about with Nutramigen/Alimentum. As for whether hydrolyzed formula can be organic — the only article I have read stating that hydrolyzed formula can’t be organic is from Baby’s Only’s website (which, to me, seems suspect since it’s essentially just marketing material for why their formula is better). Ingredients like maltodextrin (which appear in many organic formulas like Holle) – are actually partially hydrolyzed starch molecules – so the process of hydrolization can definitely be used for organic ingredients. So to summarize – HiPP HA is way better than any other hypoallergenic formula I have seen out there, and hydrolyzed formula can be organic 🙂 Hope that helps, let me know if you have any other questions!
You are awesome! This helps a lot! Thank you!
No problem at all! 🙂
So we just got back from the allergist and my baby tested positive for a milk protein allergy- so she needs a formula with no goat or cow milk in it. The doctor is recommending soy. Any advice?
Hi Kate! So sorry your baby tested positive for a milk protein allergy! I know babies with milk protein allergies who do fine on formulas like HiPP HA or Baby’s Only Lactorelief so those are always my first two go-to hypoallergenic formulas. Did your pediatrician think that those wouldn’t work for your baby because her allergy is too severe? If that’s the case you may have no choice but to go with soy — in which case I’d use Baby’s Only Soy formula (ingredients aren’t ideal but are way better than any other soy formula on the market!) Hope that helps!
Thank you! Yes they said her allergy was so severe that she needed to come off anything with milk in it including goat milk. I will try baby’s only soy. Thank you again!
That makes sense Kate! I hope Baby’s Only with Soy works well for her! 🙂
Hi Anjali,
This thread has been so helpful. I used your formula guide to select a formula for my LO once I stopped pumping about 6 months ago. My 14 month old (11 months adjusted preemie) has been on Baby’s Only Whey Protein for about 4 months now, and I’ve tried everything to remedy his constipation (probiotics, prune juice/puree) to no avail. We tried the LactoRelief and it was only a little better. He was doing a little better on the Plum formula as well, but not great. Now that we’ve introduced solids, it’s getting a bit worse. Even eating pears, spinach, etc. does not provide a lot of relief. I sense he has a sensitivity to the milk protein. I still nurse him about 4 times a day, but it seems that it’s more for snacking and comfort now. It’s been a long journey from the NICU (I pumped like crazy for 4 months until he came home, stash lasted for about 4 months after he came home) and b/c I’m a stay at home mom it’s hard to pump during the day without interruption. He has a great appetite, and has caught up on the growth chart, it’s just pooping that’s the issue. He had some reflux, but it’s gotten progressively better. The doc has said we can continue formula for a couple months before switching to an adult milk of some kind, but I’m not sold on soy milk as an alternative.
I wish I would have dug further into this sooner because pooping has been an ordeal for him. I am now ready to try the EU formulas but I have a question. Is the HiPP Combiotic Organic Follow-On Milk Stage 2 supposed to be as easy on the stomach as the HiPP Hypoallergenic (HA) Combiotic Stage 2 Infant Milk Formula? I didn’t see “organic” in the name of the HA formula and wondered if this made it less pure than the Follow-On Formula.
Thanks!
Hi Crystal! I’m so glad this post has been helpful for you! So for your son, is his only symptom constipation? And has he always had constipation issues or did it start after the formula was introduced? Also do you eat dairy? Because if he truly has a milk protein allergy, he would have been having issues with constipation when you were only giving him breastmilk (if you do eat dairy, because the milk protein will end up in your breastmilk then), vs. when you started the formula. It could just be the whey-casein ratio in the US formulas that’s an issue – most of the US formulas have too much casein which can cause constipation. The EU formulas will definitely be gentler on your baby’s tummy. HiPP HA will be easier for your son to digest compared to HiPP Stage 2. It is still organic because all of HiPP’s formulas are supposed to be organic — not sure why they don’t mention it in the name of the HA formula! So I’d go with HiPP HA and see if that helps — you can also try introducing more water into his diet — he may just need more liquid to help move things along. Hope that helps, let me know if you have any other questions and keep me posted on how things go!
Could you add Holle Pre to the chart?
Absolutely! Done!
Great post. May I ask how about the Babybio (babynat) ? A organic formula brand from France.
https://www.babybio.fr/produits-details.php?id_produit=50005
https://www.babynat.net/milk-growing-up-powder.php
Hi Austin! So glad this post was helpful to you! As for Babybio, it’s ok but I don’t love that it has corn maltodextrin in it. The rest of the ingredients look good though – so I’d rank it as similar to Topfer on my chart in the post. Hope that helps! Let me know if you have any other questions!
Hello! I don’t want to duplicate a question but had a hard time sorting through the conversations to find an answer. What do you think about the Honest company’s formula?
Hi Rochelle! No problem at all! So the Honest Company’s formula ranks pretty low on my list unfortunately. That’s because they use glucose syrup solids (instead of lactose), palm oil, soy oil and taurine — all of which are not great ingredients. If you’re looking for the best US based organic formula I’d recommend Baby’s Only with Whey Protein! And if you’re open to buying European formulas (which really are the best) I’d recommend HiPP or Lebenswert. Hope that helps, let me know if you have any other questions!
Thank you so much for your research on this! I am trying to weigh the pros and cons between Baby’s Only Whey, Hipp Dutch or German and Lebenswert stage 1. Since Baby’s Only Whey is so readily available, I was leaning toward that, but I have some concerns about it being a toddler formula. I know it meets the standards for infant formula, but the nutrient levels seem higher than other formulas (specifically protein, calcium and phosphorus)… I think it’s because it’s technically for toddlers. I wanted to compare the nutritional information to Hipp and Lebenswert. Do you know where I can find the nutritional info for them?
Hi Vanessa! Yes absolutely! You can find nutritional info for HiPP and Lebenswert (and all of the other European formulas) here. Totally makes sense why you’d have reservations about Baby’s Only with Whey — I know lots of people who do use it for their infants, but I was hesitant to use it for Layla for that very reason! Let me know if you have any questions about HiPP or Lebenswert once you read through the nutritional info!
Hi Anjali! Thank you so much for keeping this post up to date – it’s super helpful. We have been giving my 6 month old Baby’s Only Whey for 2 months now and he seems to do just fine with it. Not sure if you know this, but Nature’s One just came out with a Baby’s Only Whey with DHA & ARA (it’s only available on their website). It seems to be the exact same ingredients, except for the added egg lecithin and some organic vanilla. I can’t tell if he’s liking it or if its suiting him well. Have you read about any allergies to the egg lecithin or aversions to vanilla? Is the Nordic Naturals Baby’s DHA Vegetarian a good alternative? Thanks!
Hi Shipra! Of course!! I’m so glad this post was helpful to you! So yes – I did know that Baby’s Only with Whey now has DHA/ARA (non-hexane extracted). That’s actually the version of Baby’s Only I included in my chart (although I know there is the version without DHA/ARA available as well!) You’re right – the ingredients are the same except for the egg lecithin. Unless your baby has an explicit egg allergy, there shouldn’t be any issues with the egg lecithin. And vanilla is super mild – shouldn’t be any issues there! Nordic Naturals Baby’s DHA Vegetarian gets their DHA from Algae, which isn’t as biologically available to the body as DHA from fish oil so it’s not as good. As for whether DHA from Algae is more (or less) bio-available than DHA from egg lecithin, I have heard that DHA from egg lecithin is more biologically available than Algae — so I’d rank the various DHA supplements to be: Fish Oil, Egg Lecithin, Algae — in which case Baby’s Only with DHA is better than regular Baby’s Only and then using Nordic Naturals DHA Vegetarian as a supplement. If you used Nordic Naturals DHA (from fish oil) as a supplement, then I’d do Baby’s Only with Whey (no DHA), and add Nordic Naturals Baby DHA (fish oil). Hope that helps! Let me know if you have any other questions!
Hi Anjali – I have started my baby on HiPP Dutch, and so far it’s going well. The directions on the Organic Munchkin website state that you can’t store premade formula in the fridge, while the directions on the My Organic Formula website say that you can store the formula in the back of the fridge for 24 hours. Do you know which one of these is correct and do you recommend storing pre-made HiPP formula? Also, we are looking to purchase some HiPP stage 1 ready to feed formula that we could have on hand just in case we need to take it on the go. Do you have any recommendations on websites to purchase the ready to feed? Neither Organic Munchkin nor My Organic Formula offer it, and I’d like to buy it from a US-based website to reduce shipping time and costs. Thank you!
Hi Mia! So glad your baby is doing well on HiPP Dutch, and these are great questions! So for storing premade formula: HiPP recommends that you do not store pre-made formula in the fridge. So the Organic Munchkin website is correct. Basically, after you mix the HiPP formula, you should use it within ~2 hours of mixing it. For ready to feed formula, I think Formuland is the only one that sells it. I don’t have any direct connections there so I can’t vouch for them, but I have heard that people have gotten HiPP’s ready to feed from their website! Hope that helps, let me know if you have any other questions!
Thanks, Anjali! Your post and this info has been incredibly helpful. I have one additional question for you. My pediatrician has asked us to switch to hypoallergenic formula for the time being. I started using HiPP HA, but I was having issues with the formula not fully dissolving if I let the boiled water cool too much, and I could see some sediment on the side of the bottle after mixing. After some research and back and forth with the Organic Munchkin folks, I think the reason for the sediment is that HiPP HA stage 1 has starch and the HiPP Dutch stage 1 that I was previously using does not have starch. Do you think that this could be the reason that HiPP HA is harder to mix and do you know of any better ways to mix formulas that contain starch with room temperature water? Also, I understand that HiPP HA stage PRE doesn’t have starch, so I’m thinking about switching over to that instead. My baby is just under 2 months. Do you know of any reason that this would not be recommended, and do you know of any other difference in ingredients that would require that I switch my baby back over to stage 1 at some point? Thank you so much!
Hi Mia! No problem at all! So glad it’s been helpful. Regarding HiPP HA — Organic Munchkin is right in that the starch makes it harder to mix. I went to some of the HiPP customer service forums and this sediment issue seems like a common problem with HiPP HA (unfortunately). I don’t have any great suggestions on how to mix it better – other than to really shake up the bottle to help mix the formula! I think you should be fine using HiPP HA Stage PRE — the main difference in ingredients is that HiPP PRE has less iron than HiPP Stage 1. But your baby has iron stores until they are 6 months old, so you should be fine using PRE until your baby is 6 months! Then you probably will want to switch back to Stage 1. Hope that helps, let me know if you have any other questions!
Thank you SO MUCH for this helpful comparison chart! You mentioned that OrganicStart sells Holle Goat’s Milk formula. Would that come under the Holle row in the chart, or does the Goat’s Milk version differ in any significant way?
Hi Kami! No problem at all! So glad it was helpful! To your question – yes absolutely – Holle Goat’s Milk is very similar to regular Holle (it just uses Goat instead of Cow Milk). So I’d say it would fall in the same line as the Holle row in the chart. Hope that helps! Let me know if you have any other questions!
Hi! I transitioned my little one from breastmilk to Lebenswert (stage 2) and know that it has maltodextrin in it. We are only a couple days in but we haven’t had any problems or anything with it. Is it worth transitioning to Hipp Dutch since it is at that top of the list?
Hi Ashley! Once your Lebenswert runs out, I’d switch to HiPP Dutch just to avoid the maltodextrin if you can! This is mainly because I’m not a huge fan of maltodextrin since its glycemic index is much higher than table sugar, and I personally believe a lot of issues today come from sugar and inflammation. But I wouldn’t toss the Lebenswert you already have since formula is expensive! I’d say just use it up or sell it, and then switch to HiPP Dutch. Let me know if that makes sense and if you have any other questions!
This article was so helpful!! I was looking for a comparison on organic formulas and I’m so happy I found this post. I am curious how you prepared your formula? I know the directions say to boil the water and then let it cool before mixing. Is this to ensure the water is sterilized before use? Just curious…I know some people use distilled water that they buy from the grocery store for their formula mixing needs. Thoughts?
Thanks so much Caroline!! So glad it was helpful for you! As far as preparation goes — yes, the directions say to boil the water to ensure it’s sterilized. But if you have distilled water, or even filtered tap water, or bottled water, all of those would work just fine as well 🙂 We used boiled water sometimes, bottled water other times, and filtered water other times! Just depended on what we had on hand. So I’d say anything other than just plain tap water would work! Hope that helps, let me know if you have any other questions!
my baby has to be on a hypoallergenic formula and i do no lie anything to do with similac so i went online and have been purchasing Topfer HYPO, I am torn between that and the HIPP HYPO which i have only heard good reviews about,But i cannot really find any reviews on topfer,Which confuses me because its suppose to be the oldest and most used in UK and Germany..So if its the best than why does no one talk about it and only talks about HIPP and HOLLE and LEBENSWERTS? please help me out with this im going to be ordering in a few days and want to get the right formula..Thank you
Hi Shelly! So regarding the difference between Topfer Hypoallergenic and HiPP’s HA formula — they are actually almost identical in their ingredients. The only difference is that HiPP adds prebiotics to their formula, and Topfer doesn’t. So for that reason, I’d say HiPP’s HA formula is slightly superior to Topfer. I’d probably go with HiPP just for the added prebiotics – other than that, they are basically comparable! Hope that helps, let me know if you have any other questions!
I add raw probiotics to her topfer formula..will it be okay to add it to the hipp formula or will that be putting to much probiotic into it?
Hi Shelly! You can totally add probiotics to the HiPP formula. HiPP has prebiotics already added, not probiotics (they are two different things, both of which help promote a healthy gut for your baby 🙂 ) – so that shouldn’t be a problem at all. Let me know if you have any other questions!
I just wanted to thank you for keeping this site up to date. I’m so happy I stumbled on your website and I’m looking forward to taking your advice on the formulas! I’ll let you know which works for us! Thanks again!
Of course!! Thanks so much Alicia – so glad this post was helpful for you! Definitely keep me posted on which one you end up going with!
Hi, I have a 13 month old baby, and she’s currently on Holle Stage 4. After reading your post, I’m thinking about switching her formula. She’s been breastfed for the past year, so you didn’t take to any U.S. formula we’ve tried due to the smell (and probably the taste). Can you please tell me if the above ratings still apply to the appropriate stage formula for my daughter?
Hi Phan! If your daughter is 13 months old, I’d actually recommend you switch her from formula to organic whole milk (cow or goat milk would work well). Is there a reason you still have her on formula (like, did her pediatrician recommend it?) If not, I’d just stop formula now and move to organic whole milk 🙂 To your question about Holle Stage 4 — the ingredients are pretty comparable to Holle Stage 1 and 2 – so I’d say the ranking of Holle on the list holds. Hope that helps! Let me know if you have any other questions!
Hi. Thanks for putting together a list. Which formula would you recommend if my baby has constipation and slight eczema issue?
Hi Emily! Do you know if your baby has a cow’s milk allergy? It might be worth finding out for sure – because slight eczema can be a sign of a cow’s milk allergy. The constipation could be caused by your baby’s current formula (formulas like Earth’s Best can cause constipation because they have a whey:casein ratio that is really off from breastmilk – vs. HiPP or Holle that have a 60:40 whey:casein ratio). If your baby does have a cow’s milk allergy, this hypoallergenic formula from HiPP would be a good choice, or this Goat’s Milk formula from Holle. Hope that helps! Let me know if you have any other questions!