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’m looking at Similac Organic and Similac Pure Bliss for supplementing with my twins but I’m not sure what the better option is. The coupons available with Similac are what has me picking between these two.
Hi Ashley! I’d go with Similac Pure Bliss honestly. The difference between the two versions is that Similac Organic is certified Organic, while Pure Bliss is not organic but they do use milk from grass fed cows, there are no GMOs or growth hormones/antibiotics used either. So it’s very close to organic, but not actually organic. Also, Pure Bliss’s ingredients list is far superior to Similac Organic. Similac Organic uses maltodextrin, sugar, and some synthetic ingredients (e.g. taurine). Pure Bliss doesn’t have any sugar added, doesn’t have maltodextrin, but does have the synthetic ingredients that Similac Organic does. So given that Pure Bliss is very close to organic and has no sugar or maltodextrin, I would chose that over Similac Organic. I hope that helps, let me know if you have any other questions!
Hello,
Thank you so much for the information. I used your charts a little over two years ago with my daughter as I had supply issues.
I was planning on using lebenswert again but I noticed a new formula on the suppliers website I order from.
I was wondering if had any information on Löwenzahn Organics Pre Infant Formula?
Thanks!
Hi Natalie! Thanks so much for reaching out and I’m so glad this post was helpful to you with your daughter! Regarding Löwenzahn Organics – I actually hadn’t heard of them before but I looked them up and the ingredients in the formula look good! Very comparable to HiPP Dutch or HiPP PRE. None of the sellers I work with sell that formula so I can’t speak to the best way to get it in the US – but if you are able to get it from a reputable seller let me know! Thanks!
Hi Anjali,
I always buy Hipp from organic start wholesale, and they have the choice of transition kits. I know for Hipp Dutch, stage 2 is for less than 12 months old, and stage 3 is for 12 months +. I wonder if that is ok for a 11 months baby drinks stage 3? And is that ok for a 14 months baby still drinks stage 2? Which way will be better? Because I am in the middle of transition, it’s kind of hard to decide what stage I should buy right now since it come in bulk.
Hi Lily! I’d do Stage 2 for the 14 month old baby vs. Stage 3 for the 11 month old baby. That way you’re not increasing the dose of the vitamins/minerals too fast for your 11 month old before they are ready to transition! Hope that helps, let me know if you have any other questions!
Hi Anjali, Thank you so much for all the information you have put together which is very helpful for FTM across the globe.
After going through your blog, I purchased Holle Pre for my 2 month old. I was supplementing with Similac since my milk supply is not sufficient for my little one. Before I switch her to Holle, I have few Qs regarding the water to be used with formula. We have a reverse osmosis system in our house, so can I use that water directly to mix the formula or is there any bottled water brand that you can recommend. I am looking to avoid the effort of boiling water, then cooling it off to 50 degrees and after mixing, bringing it to 37 degrees etc, bcoz midnight feedings will get difficult.
And, I brought the formula from organic start and their website says I can store the formula in an air tight container and use it in 2 weeks. Since, I am supplementing formula, I will not be able to use 400 grams of formula in 2 weeks. So, please let me know if I can keep using it till I run out of or before expiry date.
Thank you in advance.
Hi! Great questions! Regarding the water, if you’re using filtered water, you don’t have to boil it. The EU recommends boiling water used to make formula to sterilize the formula (since the formula isn’t technically sterile once you have touched it – e.g. used the scoop with your hands). But we didn’t boil the water for either of our kids – we just used filtered or bottled water and it was fine 🙂 You should double check with your pediatrician – ours was comfortable with us not boiling the water before mixing it with the formula! Regarding how quickly you should use the formula – if you’re not going to finish one whole box in 2 weeks, I’d recommend not getting the HiPP Dutch container (which is one big container of formula) and instead – getting HiPP PRE – which comes in two separate packets of formula in one box. That way you can open one packet of formula, store it in an airtight container and use it within 2-3 weeks, and then open the other packet when you need it! I hope that helps, let me know if you have any other questions!
Hi! I was wondering for your US Only Formula rankings, can you provide a nutshell summary/reason for your rankings for each? I understand why Baby’s Only with Whey would be #1, but what makes you rank Happy Baby, Plum Organics, and Earth’s Best as 2,3, and 5? Thank you!
I met with a registered dietician this week and she recommends Earth’s Best over the Baby’s Only for my baby…so I am having a hard time deciding what is best for my baby. I was originally set on starting Baby’s Only with her, but now after meeting with her I’m confused. (My baby is 14 months, but she is very underweight and not on the growth curve for weight, even when adjusting for her prematurity of 5 weeks. She was exclusively on breastmilk until 12 months, and then when I had to stop pumping for medical reasons, I started giving her frozen in the AM and then organic nonhomogenized whole milk for other feedings.) When looking over your post, my only concern with the Earth’s Best would be the hexane-extracted DHA/ARA and the palm oil. As far as some of the synthetic nutrients and preservatives, I asked her about these, and this was her response: “Beta carotene is an antioxidant that our body processes to form Vit. A, and is found in orange veggies (like carrots). Same goes for lycopene (an antioxidant found in tomatoes), lutein, taurine, etc. We definitely want these nutrients in formula, as it is technically a sole source of nutrition for infants.”
Thanks for your help!
Hi Dorothy! I replied to your email but I’ll reply here too in case someone else has a similar question! Great question! Regarding the rankings:
Baby’s Only with Whey has naturally extracted DHA/ARA, and the only “offending” ingredient is soy oil. It doesn’t have pre or probiotics added, but those are easy to supplement so it’s ok.
Happy Baby has prebiotics, but it has hexane extracted DHA/ARA, palm oil and soy oil (more offending ingredients than Happy Baby)
Plum Organics has no pre or probiotics, and has hexane extracted DHA/ARA, palm oil, soy oil and taurine (one more offending ingredient than Happy Baby)
And then Earth’s Best has prebiotics, but has all of the synthetic ingredients plus palm oil, soy oil, hexane DHA/ARA
So essentially, the formulas are ranked based on the number of sub-optimal ingredients they have, Earth’s Best being last for having the most undesirable ingredients. If your baby is 14 months – that’s actually the perfect age for Baby’s Only. From a caloric standpoint, Baby’s Only and Earth’s Best have the same amount of calories so there’s no advantage there if your baby is underweight. But at 14 months your baby should be well into eating solids by now – how is she doing with solid foods? Is she eating 3 good meals a day? If so, then organic whole milk should probably be sufficient vs. formula!
Regarding the synthetic nutrients – I disagree with her. Yes, lycopene comes from tomatoes, but the lycopene in infant formulas isn’t derived from food. The version in organic infant formula is produced synthetically by the chemical manufacturer BASF. A three-stage process is used to produce synthetic lycopene, and involves the solvent dichloromethane and the solvent toluene – which is derived from benzene. That’s the issue with all of the synthetic nutrients in infant formulas – I’d be fine with them if they were whole food based, but they’re not. Also, The National Organic Standards Board rejected the use of lutein, lycopene, nucleotides, taurine, l-carnitine and l-methionine in dairy-based formula. None of these nutrients are required in infant formula by the Food and Drug Administration, and all are prohibited in organic formula in the European Union. Some, like lutein and lycopene, are even prohibited in conventional infant formula in the European Union.
At 14 months, I’d honestly just switch your baby to organic whole milk and make sure she’s getting tons of healthy fats and caloric dense foods in her meals 3x or more per day. In her milk, you can also add 1 tbsp organic heavy cream to increase the calories, and on her food you can add olive oil/coconut oil/avocado oil/etc. to increase the calories there. I have tons of other ideas on how to increase the caloric intake for your baby if you need them! I’ve coached moms who have underweight infants 1:1 and we’ve seen good results.
Those are just my thoughts! But I would defer to your pediatrician, since they have seen your baby in person and knows her best! I hope that helps, let me know if you have any other questions!
Hi Anjali! Thank you for sharing such an informative blog. Baby formulas are a blessing for working mom as it makes their life easier. Nowadays many organic baby formulas are available in the market, but European Hipp formula and Holle baby formulas are very popular as it is very healthy. It makes a baby fuller for a long period of time.
Thanks! I agree! Glad you found it helpful!
Anjali, thank you so much for putting this together. Your research is helping tons of mamas! How did you introduce formula to your little one? Any suggestions? Thank you!
Hi Dana! Awww thank you so much! I’m so glad it’s been helpful! I introduced formula to my son when he was about 2 months old, just gave him like 1-2oz a day to get him used to the taste so he wouldn’t reject it later. Then around 4 months we started doing 1 bottle of formula a day. And then moved up to 2 bottles of formula at 6 months, and at 8/9 months he was on all formula. If you’re ok with doing 1-2oz formula a day then I think introducing it earlier is better than later because then they are much less likely to reject it later! Hope that helps!
I just bought Hipp Dutch in bulk from organicstartwholesale, but the shipping info shows”Departure from office of exchangeBpost
Belgium”, do you know why does it ship from Belgium instead of Netherlands? On their website, it says orders ship straight from Germany or Netherlands.
Hi Lily! They do package and ship them from their warehouse in the Netherlands, but it goes from the Netherlands to Belgium and then to the US (because it’s faster and easier to ship from Belgium to the US than from the Netherlands to the US). Hope that helps clarify!
Do you have any updates on best US brand formulas?
My breastmilk supply is dwindling at 6.5 months postpartum and I am starting to research formulas
Hi Mallory! Good timing for your question! I just updated my post with only the US formulas ranked so you can take a look. Here the top 5 best in order:
#1 | Baby’s Only with Whey Protein or Kabrita USA
#2 | Happy Baby
#3 | Plum Organics
#4 | Baby’s Only with Brown Rice Syrup (which also has a version with DHA/ARA added)
#5 | Earth’s Best
Hope that helps! Let me know if you have any other questions!
Hey! I was curious why Honest Co formula isn’t on your list here? I’m trying to decide between that and happy baby. Which is better? Thanks 🙂 Your work is seriously amazing and I appreciate every minute of hard work you put into this!
Hi Cara! It actually is on my list but because of the ingredients in Honest Co it’s allll the way at the bottom (you’ll see it at the bottom of the chart right on top of Vermont Organics!) So Happy Baby is by far the better option 🙂 Hope that helps!
Woow! super helpful! hi, my baby boy will turn 6 months in august, im currently exclusively breastfeeding but been thinking in suplementing with formula but still thinking about it coz i feel a little guilty since my first girl was exclusively breastfeef for 15 months. Im a little confuse with the names; what is the difference between hipp dutch, uk, pre, im confused and wouldn’t know wich one to order! Thanks in advance
Hi Maria! I got your message on IG but I’ll reply here too just in case anyone else has a similar question 🙂 First off, please try to not feel guilty about stopping breastfeeding or supplementing! 6 months is still great and any amount of breastmilk is beneficial to your little one, AND the formulas I recommend are really awesome nutritionally so you can feel good about giving him this formula too! Fed is best, that’s all that matters 🙂 So for HiPP – I’d recommend HiPP Dutch first. If that’s not available, then HiPP PRE, and then after that I’d recommend HiPP UK. Hope that helps!!
Hi, thank you for this article. It’s been so helpful. I had a question about the nucleotides and synthetic nutrients. I am currently feeding my son Happy Baby but recently have been confused. At first I was glad that it didn’t have taurine and all of the other “extras” but lately Ive been reading other sites from doctors that say the nucleotides are better and recommended. Should I change him over to to a formula that contains those? How does Europe handle it? Do European formulas have something else to replace those extras?
Hi Gabriela! I’m so glad this post was helpful to you! Regarding nucleotides, can you send me the articles you were looking at (email them to me at pickyeats@gmail.com)? Everything I’ve read is that the synthetic nutrients aren’t beneficial and can be harmful in the way they are produced – so I wouldn’t recommend changing him to a formula that has those. The National Organic Standards Board rejected the use of these synthetic nutrients in dairy-based formula: lutein, lycopene, nucleotides, taurine, l-carnitine and l-methionine. None of these nutrients are required in infant formula by the FDA, and all are prohibited in organic formula in the European Union – so they don’t replace it with anything, they just leave those synthetic ingredients out. Oftentimes conventional formula makers will hire doctors to write articles promoting the ingredients in their products, so the source is important when it comes to those types of claims! But if you send them to me I’m more than happy to look into it further 🙂 Hope that helps, let me know if you have any other questions!
Hello! Thank you for your comprehensive blog post! I am a little lost with what formula to get for my 4 month old. Please offer advice if you can. My questions:
1a) DHA/ALA & Omega 6: Do I want all three? I’m interested in Lebenswert Stage 1, but there are no Omegas, so I was going to add Nordic Natural drops. However, the drops only contain omega-3s.
1b) DHA/ALA & Omega 6: Do you know how the omegas are sourced in the HiPP Stage 1 UK formula?
2) My baby has severe eczema. Before finding EU brands, she was on Alimentum as we weren’t sure if it was a dairy allergy. Her eczema persisted! Do you have any insight on formula ingredients that could cause eczema, or what EU formulas you know have helped others with eczema? Even if not formula related, if you have any insight on eczema triggers, please let me know – looking for answers.
3) Is there a concern over protein levels in goat’s milk? I read that somewhere.
4) Pre/Probiotics: If a formula contains prebiotics, should I add probiotics? I purchased Corganic GutPro Infant power. Or, if a formula contains neither pre or probiotics, should I add both, or just probiotics?
THANK YOU!
Stephanie
Hi Stephanie! No problem at all! I’m glad this post was helpful for you! To your questions:
1a) So there actually isn’t a way (that I know of) to supplement with ARA. All of the infant DHA supplements only contain DHA, there aren’t any that contain ARA (which is why I rank HiPP over Leb since HiPP has DHA/ARA in it). That being said, there are mixed opinions on whether ARA is necessary – so what I would do is talk to your pediatrician about it and see if they think ARA supplementation is necessary!
1b) The omegas are sourced from fish and algae!
2) I’m so sorry your baby has eczema!! That’s so rough! So eczema can be caused by a variety of issues. It sounds like you guys have ruled out a dairy allergy, since nothing changed after the Alimentum. Other potential allergens could be (for a 4 month old, these only apply if she’s getting any breastmilk from you): wheat, nuts, tomatoes, citrus fruits, egg whites, shellfish, and soy. Otherwise it could be hereditary (in which case no dietary changes will help) or environmental (something her skin is coming into contact with is irritating it). If she’s not getting any breastmilk then you can try HiPP HA to see if that helps, and if not then I would try a goat’s milk formula like Kabrita. I’d also recommend using Mustela products to help manage the eczema: put this lotion on after bath and an additional 3 times a day to the affected areas, and use this body wash and this shampoo for every bath. I love Mustela because their products are really effective but still very natural for eczema!
3) Goat’s milk formula does contain more protein than cow’s milk formula and breastmilk. I haven’t heard of concerns about this and I know many moms who have used goat’s milk formula for their babies with no issues. That being said, if you do decide to try a goat’s milk formula, I’d run it past your pediatrician first!
4) If a formula only contains prebiotics, you should add probiotics. If a formula contains neither pre or probiotics, I’d just still add probiotics since it’s hard to find a good prebiotic supplement for infants!
Hope that helps, let me know if you have any other questions! 🙂
Hi Stephanie! One more follow up to this – I spoke with the owners of Kabrita and this is what they said about their Goat Milk formula: “Great question re: protein! Goat milk (fluid, natural) does contain more protein per serving than, say, cow milk or breast milk. This is one of a number of reasons why giving straight goat milk to an infant would not be suitable – their kidney function is not yet fully developed and will have a hard time handling the by-products of protein digestion. However – and this is key – baby formulas are adapted. This means that the nutrients (both macronutrients such as protein and micronutrients such as vitamins & minerals) are delivered in amounts that are safe and suitable. The FDA requires that infant formula in the US deliver between 1.8 – 4.5 g of protein per 100kkcal. Fluid (or straight) goat milk would offer 5.1 g per 100kcal. Kabrita goat milk formula offers 2.7g per kcal – nicely mid-range.” So given this I don’t think there’s any concern with the protein content of their goat milk formula vs. cow’s milk formula! Hope that helps!
Hi! I apologize if I missed this, but should I be ordering the stage that corresponds with my child’s age? I’ve been following your advice to try Hipp stage one and when it’s out go with the Hipp German version PRE. My baby is 7 months old, is there a later stage I should be using of the German or Dutch version of Hipp?
Thank you SO MUCH for your help!
Hi Emily!! Great question! Honestly it’s really child-dependent in terms of switching to the later stages. For kids who are great eaters early on (eating a variety of foods, 3 full meals a day by 9 months old, etc.) – you don’t necessarily need to switch to stage 2 if you don’t want to. The main difference between Stage 1 and 2 is that Stage 2 has more iron – which is necessary after babies turn 6 months because they start to lose their iron stores. Stage 1 still has iron, just less of it. Which is why, if your baby is a great eater – they might be getting enough iron from food and then you don’t have to switch to a later stage formula. Personally, my daughter was a fantastic eater – so I didn’t switch her to stage 2 until I ran out of stage 1, which was when she was about 10 months old. My son, on the other hand, took a LONG time to even show an interest in food, let alone eat 3 real meals a day, so I switched him to Stage 2 as soon as he turned 6 months old. I hope that helps! Let me know if you have any other questions!
I need to supplement my newborn twins. My pediatrician does not recommend any powdered formula before 2 months. What are the best options for liquid or concentrated versions? Thanks!
Hi Emily! Is there a reason your peds doesn’t recommend powdered formula before 2 months? Powdered formula has a much cleaner ingredients list than ready to feed versions (since those have to have thickeners/stabilizers/etc. added to them to be shelf stable), and every mom I know who has supplemented with formula before the age of 2 months has used powdered formula. HiPP has a ready to feed version if you do want to go with that but it’ll be more expensive with a less-clean ingredients list than the powdered version! Hope that helps!
Thanks for the response! Powdered formula is not recommended for infants under 2 months of age due to it not being sterile. There is debate on preparing it with boiling water to ensure sterility. I was given samples of Similac pro advance which is at least moving in the right direction for big name brands, but is not organic.
Hi Emily! I agree about Similac – the ingredients are becoming cleaner but since it’s still not organic and the ingredients aren’t all the way there yet, I don’t recommend it. Regarding powdered formula – I had only heard that rationale used for high risk babies, preemies, or babies with some sort of health issue. I hadn’t heard it applied to all babies! But you should obviously go with what your pediatrician says! Thanks for getting back to me! 🙂
Hi Anjali!
Your blog is so informative! I’m wondering if you can advise on HiPP. Yesterday, I was told by our pediatrician that I need to start fortifying my breastmilk with formula, as she’s not gaining enough weight. She’s 6 months old, has been drinking breastmilk exclusively since birth (both by breast and bottle). She takes 2-3 bottles a day, and is otherwise breastfed. Our pedi recommended adding formula to her bottles breast milk, and wants me to do so at 24 calories per ounce. She gave us a ‘recipe’ to do this with Enfamil Enfacare (of which she also provide us a can of). The recipe is 1 3/4 teaspoons of formula to every 4oz of breastmilk, or 2.5 teaspoons of formula to every 6oz of breastmilk. The third ingredient on EnfaCare is corn syrup and half the others I cannot pronounce. Giving it to my daughter just doesn’t feel right.
I happened to have been given two cans of HiPP to try by a friend, and I’d like to try fortifying her milk with this instead. My question for you is this: are you familiar or can you recommend a similar recipe using HiPP that would also provide 24 calories/oz? Or can you point me in the direction of possibly finding this info? Thank you!!!
Hi Alexa! I’m so glad you found this post helpful! And to your question yes! You can find info for HiPP and all of the European formulas here (just click on the link to whichever HiPP product you’re using – Dutch/UK/Germany Stage 1/2 etc.). Let me know if I can help with anything else!
Hello,
I started to give my daughter( she is 4 months old) HIPP AR because of her bad reflux but she started to have diarrhea.She was in the HIPP Stage 1 – Dutch ( didn’t help her reflux) before I started to give her the AR version.Do you have any other suggestions of formula for babies with reflux? Do you know if the goat milk like Kabrita is better for babies with reflux? Thank you so much for your time!
Hi Karol! You can try HiPP HA which has helped some babies with reflux. Otherwise you can try switching to Kabrita which may or may not help with reflux – it all just depends on your baby. But I’d try HiPP HA first and see how that goes!