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.
Table of Contents
hide
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!
Hi Anjali,
Are the top stage 1 and pre formulas you listed iron-fortified? Are they powder based formulas? Can they be mixed with room temperature water or should the water be boiled first?
Thanks!
Hi Seema! They do have iron in them, but the stage 2 formulas contain more iron (since babies lose their iron stores after 6 months of age). They are powder based formulas – I don’t have any liquid/ready to feed formulas on my list because they often contain additives to keep them shelf stable. As for what type of water – the EU recommends mixing with boiled water to reduce the risk of contamination, but I never did that for my kids – I just used room temperature filtered or bottled water. From what I’ve read, room temp water is fine for healthy, full term babies (but may not be for immuno-compromised or preemie babies). You should just check with your pediatrician on whether the water has to be boiled or not for your baby! Hope that helps!
Hi Anjali,
I’m debating on if my 6 1/2 month old should stay on Holle PRE or go to Holle Stage 2. Stage 2 has starch in it and I’m wondering if it’s necessary? We will begin supplementing with solids soon. What are your thoughts on starch as an additive to Stage 2 formula? Should I go with a brand that doesn’t add starch?
Thank you,
Sarah
Hi Sarah! In general I’m not a fan of starch in formulas – so if you’re going to move to Stage 2, I’d recommend going with HiPP Dutch Stage 2 or Loulouka Stage 2. But you could just stick with Holle PRE — the main difference is that Stage 2 formulas have more iron in them than PRE or Stage 1, which is important only if your baby doesn’t take to solids well and isn’t eating a variety of foods. But if your baby starts solids and ends up doing really well, you could just feed your baby iron rich foods and stick with Holle PRE (assuming your pediatrician isn’t concerned about the amount of iron in PRE vs. Stage 2). For my kids, I moved to HiPP Dutch Stage 2 when they were about 8 months old just because I felt more comfortable having the extra iron since we are vegetarian. Hope that helps, let me know if you have any other questions!
Yea I’d hold off at recommending Loulouka. There’s suspicion that Peter is rebranding another formula. There’s no company information and Peter owns the formulas website. Additionally, the website is American with a sub website .nl. There is no way that the formula is European. I’m surprised you jumped so quick on his band wagon.
Hi Raj – thanks for sharing your concerns but honestly I disagree. You are right that Peter from Organic Start has had a hand in developing Loulouka, but he has been working with a formula producer in Switzerland to do so. I was pretty clear in my update that this is developed by Organic Start but he is only a partial contributor to the formula, he is not the only owner / developer for Loulouka. Organic Start worked on developing it because there was no formula option available in the US that didn’t have palm oil – which was their primary goal. Additionally, I have documentation from Peter outlining both the farming and sourcing practices for the ingredients in this formula. The factory in Switzerland that the formula is developed in has the following certificates: ISO Food Safety System Certification 22000, Swiss Organic Regulation, Swiss Organic Farming Ordinance, HACCP Certification, Suisse Garantie Certification, CH-US Organic Equivalency Agreement. Given that ingredients wise and manufacturing wise, this formula was comparable to the other European formulas on my list, and given that my list isn’t restricted to only European formulas (although Loulouka is made in Switzerland), there was no reason for me to not include it as an option. If you have evidence that Loulouka’s ingredients are misrepresented or that their organic certifications are fraudulent, please send that my way and I will update my post accordingly. But from the research I’ve done and paperwork I’ve seen, their formula seems to be legitimately good.
Hi Anjali! Have you heard about Tastyganics? I read your articles, and I’ve been doing also my own research on how to get formula from Europe and found this website with very good prices.
I am not advertising this and I do not have anything to do with them I just think it’s fair to share this info for other parents looking for a good price.
Hi Sumak! I haven’t heard of Tastyganics and I don’t know anyone who has ordered from them either! But I’m glad you have had a good experience with them! The sellers listed on my post are ones that I can vouch for personally in that I have spoken to the owners, have gone through their supply chain, etc. But if I end up being able to speak to the owners of Tastyganics and vet them appropriately then I will add them to this post! Thanks!
Hi Anjali!
My 10 week old twin girls were born premature and have been struggling with acid reflux. I recently switched their formula from Baby’s Only lactose relief formula to Holle Goats milk Stage 1. I notice Holle doesn’t have DHA added – do you recommend adding Nordic naturals Baby’s DHA to their bottle? If so, would you recommend once daily or to every bottle?
Hi Varna! Yes you can definitely add Nordic Naturals Baby DHA to their bottles! I’d just follow the dosing instructions on the bottle itself based on the age of your daughters 🙂 I’d also just double check with your pediatrician to make sure they’re comfortable with you supplementing with DHA as well!
Thank you so much for the amazing information. I was just wondering if alot of your #1 brands would be #1 in all stage forms? Example: Lebenswert Stage 1 vs Stage 2. I used Lebenswert Stage 1 for my first baby and never increased to the different stages bc of the maltodextrin. Would love to know if your other #1’s have the same issue. Also, would appreciate your opinion on continuing with stage 1 at all ages, if the other stages weren’t as clean? I have baby #2 on the way so any input would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!
Hi Jessica! That’s a great question! So yes, this chart is based mostly on Stage 1 because it would have gotten way too long and complicated to add all the stages in, and because Stage 1 can be used for the entire first year of life! However, the rankings still pretty much hold for Stage 2/3 — because all of the formulas except HiPP Dutch end up changing things up in Stage 2/3 (e.g. addition of starch, or addition of maltodextrin or soy oil) — so then they all sort of drop at the same “rate” if that makes sense. You can certainly just continue with Stage 1 for the entire first year, as long as your baby is eating solids well and your pediatrician is ok with it. The main difference between stage 1 and 2 is the iron content (which is higher in stage 2), which is why as long as your baby ends up doing well with a variety of solids after 6+ months of age, the extra iron can be obtained from food instead! Hope that helps, let me know if you have any other questions!
Hi! I have been researching these formulas for a few weeks and checking out some of the distributors along with joining the holle and hipp facebook group. I came across your blog and love your tables. I was curious about LouLouka though- isn’t it a newly released formula? Only a few weeks old? I am surprised you already have it up on your blog as a recommended formula! I have heard that there is another formula that is exactly the same that has been around longer-Bimbosan, from my understanding (maybe you should consider adding that as well since its the same), I learned this from the group I am in . As a mother, personally, I would feel more comfortable with something that has been around for a while, like Holle and HiPP have been out for a while, but from what I am reading it seems you have a relationship with the owner of the new formula so I understand adding it as a reliable formula. However, either way, I definitely feel like it’s important for moms to keep its new release in mind. Maybe if I have more kids a few years from now I would considerate it after its been around for a while.
Hi Cynthia! Great question! LouLouka is a new formula, but because I have a relationship with the owner of Organic Start, I was able to do the research into the manufacturing practices and ingredients fairly quickly – which is why I feel comfortable recommending it here! And you are right about Bimbosan – it’s a great formula and very similar to LouLouka – but I haven’t found a reputable seller of it in the US which is why it’s not on my list! I didn’t want to include a formula option that was great but not accessible to everyone in the US. Once I find a reputable seller, I will be adding Bimbosan as well though (and if you have found someone let me know)! I think there are a lot of great things about HiPP that are comparable to LouLouka and a few things better (added pre/probiotics, etc.) and just the palm oil in HiPP is the only thing LouLouka does better (coconut oil instead of palm oil). I hope that helps – but you should absolutely buy whichever formula you are the most comfortable with!
I didn’t see the details about the manufacturing practices on an update portion of your blog like I see for other things,
Maybe I missed it. Can you possibly give some more information regarding this I think it would be helpful for me and other mothers to share this information…. also I believe there is a company that ships Bimbosan formula here based on what I saw in the Facebook group. The link seems odd because it’s been translated via google https://translate.googleusercontent.com/translate_c?depth=1&nv=1&rurl=translate.google.com&sl=de&sp=nmt4&tl=en&u=https://vitadrogerie.ch/&xid=25657,15700022,15700043,15700186,15700190,15700253,15700256,15700259&usg=ALkJrhjR42ibUcfeHz0bDZdr6fR0C8Uijw
Obviously I haven’t ordered from them but it seemed to have been the current reccomended source for ordering . Original link https://vitadrogerie.ch/ . Based on my research there seems to be many overseas distributors that moms order formula from reliability all the time other than the ones listed here as well as other US distributors as well that aren’t listed. I think it’s great to be able to have all these options honestly as when I first started researching I thought it would be difficult to obtain these formulas.
Hi Cynthia! I’m actually working on a separate post about Loulouka which details the answers to all of your questions, which is why I didn’t include it in the update on this post. But I have added a few additional pieces of info to this post about Loulouka and then I’ll link to the other post when it’s live! This is what I included here: Loulouka is made by parents for parents. It is made in Switzerland from the best Swiss organic whole milk. No artificial pesticides or herbicides are used at Swiss organic farms and most of the milk used in Loulouka comes from farms located in the Swiss Alps. They also support eco-friendly manufacturing practices and they recycle waste heat, CO2 and wastewater during the production process. And, before any product leaves their factory, over 50 quality and safety checks have taken place. I hope that helps for now and stay tuned for my other post which will have more details! Regarding your questions about other overseas distributors and US distributors of these formulas, I know there are many more out there – but honestly not all of them are reputable. And before I add any distributors to this post I go through a pretty intense vetting process which includes speaking with the owner, learning about their supply chain, etc. Which is why I haven’t included every distributor of these formulas on this site – I can’t vouch for all of them. I’m currently in the process of vetting Formuland and Bottles and Burps – so once that is complete you’ll likely see them here as well. But I hope you can understand that I don’t feel comfortable recommending distributors that I haven’t spoken to personally, because I need to know for a fact that the formula they are selling is authentic and high quality. Regarding Bimbosan — I’m sure that distributor has worked for moms in your Facebook group – but again, until I’m able to speak with them I likely won’t list them here. But I’m glad moms in the group have had a good experience with them! I hope that all makes sense, let me know if you have any other questions!
Also, do you know if there is any info on the team of nutritionists that assisted in the making of Loulouka? My girlfriend actually is interested as she has tried various formulas with no luck so I am also trying to gather information for her 🙂 I think we are going to try HiPP UK version first and see where that takes us!!
Hi Cynthia! Regarding the team of nutritionists – the owner of Organic Start actually teamed up with formula makers in Switzerland (who have been making formula for the past 60 years) to create Loulouka because they wanted an option for parents that didn’t have palm oil in it. Their factory in Switzerland has the following certificates: ISO Food Safety System Certification 22000, Swiss Organic Regulation, Swiss Organic Farming Ordinance, HACCP Certification, Suisse Garantie Certification, CH-US Organic Equivalency Agreement. Let me know if you need any more info! HiPP UK is a great place to start though! Hope your little one does well on it! 🙂
Hello – this chart was very helpful! I am trying to decide between Hipp (UK) and Baby’s Only with Whey. Based on this article/ chart, I am deciding between two factors (just making sure I understand everything correctly) – would I rather give baby formula with palm oil BUT has synthetic (hexane extracted) DHA & ARA or formula with soy oil that has natural DHA & ARA? According to overall ranking – hexane extracted DHA & ARA is less of an issue than soy oil is? Thanks for your help!
Hi Stephanie! Yup that’s exactly right – I don’t see hexane extracted DHA/ARA as being as big of an issue as soy oil – since the hexane is not even detectable in the formula, but soy obviously is – and can mess with a baby’s hormonal development. So I’d rather go with the DHA/ARA (which is not ideal but I don’t see it as harmful or risky) as the soy oil. Also – here is more info on the hexane question (which I’ve also included in my post above!) Hope this helps, let me know if you have any other questions!
More Info on Hexane Extracted DHA/ARA in Formula:
I spoke with an expert who has her BS in Biology with a minor in Chemistry, who worked in an organic chemistry lab for 2 years and worked with many solvents used in extractions, compound purification, and analysis, and then went on to get an MS in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. She is extremely knowledgable when it comes to hexane and extraction methods, so I asked her for her thoughts on how concerned we should be about hexane-extracted DHA/ARA in formula. Here is the summary:
Hexane is often used as extraction solvent for extracting fats. This is because it has a low boiling point when compared to most fats, which makes it easy to get rid of post-extraction – leaving the fat behind.
To get rid of Hexane, chemists use a large apparatus called a “rotary vap” that gets rid of the solvents and you end up with a pure powder substance (usually a chemical compound). The next step is to check the purity of the compound using a machine called an NMR or MS, which tells you whether you have any of your solvent left.
This woman told me that she never, ever found an issue with having hexane still present after drying her sample.
Since formulas are a powder, they are heated to the point of water removal, and therefore the hexane should be all gone. It is unlikely that hexane is left in properly treated formula, but you are placing trust in the formula and manufacturing industry that all formula is being properly prepared.
Note: All oils that don’t have a cold-pressed process are extracted using hexane – this includes corn oil, soy oil, vegetable oil, etc. (unless otherwise specified on the bottle). Hexane is also used during the development process for drugs – many drugs are purified in a hexane solvent and then it is dried off. So if you are going to question hexane, you need to be aware of the other areas where it is used in our regular food and drug supply!
When it comes to being concerned about hexane vs. other questionable ingredients in organic formulas – maltodextrin, soy oil, etc., I’d be more concerned about maltodextrin vs. hexane extracted DHA. This is because maltodextrin’s glycemic index is much higher than table sugar and I personally believe a lot of issues today come from sugar and inflammation, and even when hexane is used it should be gone by the time the formula is packaged.
Unfortunately, there is no formula out there that doesn’t have at least one of the “offending” ingredients I have listed above! For me personally, I would choose hexane-extracted DHA over maltodextrin or soy oil for example. This is because soy oil is also extracted using hexane, and maltodextrin has an extremely high glycemic index. In addition, formulas that contain soy oil or maltodextrin are 100% guaranteed to contain these ingredients, versus hexane which is likely not traceable in a formula that has used it as a method to extract DHA/ARA before the formula has been prepared!
I used 2 types of organic formula. First when my son had colic–I used Hipp organic formula made specifically for babies w/ colic, reflux and allergies. Then when my son out grew colic, my doctor recommended Holle organic formula. Both were amazing, my son loved them, they are certified organic, and I was easily able to order them and save money at formularus.com
Thanks for sharing your experience Holly!
Thank you so much for this article! Love it! Would you please add Nannycare formula? Thank you!
Hi Jen! I ranked NannyCare in my goat milk formulas post here: https://pickyeaterblog.com/best-goat-milk-formula/
NannyCare would be near where PureBliss is on this chart, because it doesn’t have any Non-GMO/Organic certifications, but their milk is sourced from New Zealand which has higher standards than the US. It has no soy based ingredients, maltodextrin, and only includes two of the synthetic ingredients that I recommend avoiding. They don’t have a whey-casein ratio as close to breastmilk as Kabrita, and they don’t have DHA or prebiotics added. Hope that helps! Let me know if you have any other questions!
Thank you very much for all the useful information. If at least I found you when I was so close to depression .. Yes, we all know that breastfeeding is the best, and I really tried my best. I was tortured by a conscience, but my baby was simply hungry 🙁 and I only needed some support. I got the first HIPP from a close friend, and since then we have been inseparable 🙂 my baby is healthy and satisfied, and we will surely continue to use it 🙂 I order from BuyOrganicFormula because of free shipping, but it is good to know that there are so many ways that this European miracle (for us it was really a miracle) be easily available to us. We are starting with cereals, so can you tell us what’s best for the beginning? I thought it was best to start from the simple Holle Rice Cereal or you think that we can start with mixed ones, they sound so delicious 🙂
Thank you for sharing your experience Peggy!! I’m so sorry to hear about your breastfeeding experience – but you absolutely did the right thing by supplementing with formula for your baby. FED is best, breast isn’t best! 🙂 I totally support your decision. Glad to hear you’ve had a good experience with this shop – I haven’t heard of them before but it’s good to know it’s worked for you! For cereal, I like oatmeal better than rice cereal – it’s much more nutritious, lower on the glycemic index, and higher in fiber. I think Holle has an oatmeal you can use, or you can just make your own 🙂 Hope that helps, let me know if you have any other questions!
Hi! My 11 wk old baby is suspected to have a Dairy Intolerance(mucous in poop) so we are currently on Hipp Pre HA. I am unable to afford it at the moment and was wondering which American formulas are hydrolyzed like HA and can be found in stores? Im trying to stay away from Alimentum, Neocate etc…want to stick to organic.
Hi Asia! I’m so sorry your little one has a dairy intolerance! To your question, unfortunately there are literally zero American formulas that are hydrolyzed like HA and are also organic. Alimentum and Neocate/etc. are the only options made in the US available to parents today. It’s really unfortunate, and I wish I had a better answer for you but I don’t! Would you be able to afford HiPP Pre HA if you bought it in bulk like from Organic Start Wholesale? That would be cheaper than buying it retail but not sure what your budget is! I’m so sorry I don’t have a better answer for you – hopefully the US will start making healthier formulas for little ones that are similar to HiPP!!
What about HIPP HA? My daughter (6 mos)has a dairy intolerance and hates alimentum and nutramigen and I would rather find her something that not only she likes but I like also. EBF, DF/SF diet, but supply is dropping so need to supplement and eventually transition. Would you recommend HIPP’s hypoallergenic version?
Absolutely! I love HiPP HA! It’s way better than Alimentum/Nutramigen/etc. from an ingredients standpoint and I have heard that many babies with a dairy intolerance do well on it. And if you know you’re going to be buying a lot of it, I’d recommend looking at Organic Start’s Wholesale site – because it’ll be way cheaper there than retail. Hope that helps and I hope HiPP HA works well for your daughter!
hello Anjali
Thank you for your information. They are very helpful. My baby is 7 month what stage formula (Hipp Dutch) should i buy her for her age. stage 2 or 3 ?
thank you
Hi! So glad this was helpful! You can buy Stage 2 for your daughter – it’s perfect for 6-12 months!
Hi Anjali, this post is so helpful. I have two questions. For the Baby’s Only formula, do you recommend the version with or without DHA/ARA? And regarding Kabrita, do you consider that formula suitable to use as a primary source of nutrition for infants under 1 year. Their website states that it’s not a suitable sole source of nutrition for either infants or toddlers, but their nutrients seem to be on par with those in other formulas. Thank you!
Hi Erin! I’m so glad this post was helpful! Regarding Baby’s Only – I’d go with the one that contains DHA/ARA, that way you don’t have to supplement with it separately (just more convenient!). For Kabrita – I know lots of moms who use it as their baby’s formula and have no issues – but I’d just recommend showing the ingredients label to your pediatrician before using it to get their go-ahead. Let me know if you have any other questions!
Hi Anjali,
Thanks for this helpful blog! Curious to know if you have any thoughts on Baby’s Only newest formula version: non-GMO Dairy Whey DHA/ARA Formula. I think your summary uses their original “dairy” version for comparison but would love to hear your thoughts on this newer version and whether it improves upon the original. Also, the whole “toddler formula” angle. Is it ok to give to infants under 1? Look forward to hearing from you.
Hi Nisha! I actually do rank the Baby’s Only with Whey on my chart! 🙂 The one with Whey/DHA/ARA is ranked “1.5” – right under all the European formulas. And the regular Baby’s Only (just dairy) is ranked at number “4” on the chart – so the Whey one is definitely way better than regular baby’s only! Mainly because it has no syrup solids – which is a major change. Regarding the “toddler formula” issue – Baby’s Only markets their formulas as “toddler” because they want to encourage breastfeeding for the first year of life. I know many moms who use Baby’s Only for their infants and have had no problems with it. That said, I’d still double check with your pediatrician before giving your baby this formula (or any new formula for that matter) – just to make sure they are comfortable with it!
Hi, after much much research, and trying many formulas, I am still confused! Took my 7 bottles and 7 different formulas, including holle, and babys only whey, for baby to finally take a bottle. making a long story short, he took similac advance liquid, that was getting so expensive I decided to try to transition him to holle, since cost wise would be the same and wayyyy better for him, he gladly took it, but it gave him some tummy issues, so now i just tried lebenswert, seems to be doing ok, I thought it was the best of the best, but now im not so sure. what about the issues with aluminum in hipp? or should i try babys only again since it has no palm oil and no dha from hexane?…i just really would love to know what the true ” BEST ” is? please HELP! concerned mom!
Hi Gabby! If your baby is taking Lebenswert with no problems, I’d just stick to that! It is a great formula – and as long as you’re supplementing with DHA and probiotics, it’ll work great for you. Lebenswert is one of my top formulas and is equivalent to HiPP with supplementation of DHA & Probiotics. So you are doing great – just keep doing what you’re doing. Regarding the aluminum issues about HiPP — that study was really flawed and was kind of a red herring (if you search the comments of this post for “aluminum” – you’ll see the facts about the study and why it really shouldn’t be a concern). Hope that helps, let me know if you have any other questions!