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!
Hi Anjali, How does the Baby’s Only Lactorelief rank? I tried the Baby’s Only Whey and my baby was sick after each bottle, spitting up tons of mucous.
Hi Alisa! I haven’t done much research on Baby’s Only Lactorelief — but compared to the other allergy-friendly formulas out there I think Lactorelief is one of the better ones for sure! So if your baby has a milk protein intolerance or allergy, that could definitely be a good one to try. I have talked to other moms whose babies have done well with it. Hope that helps!
HI Anjali.. i had mailed organic baby foods , from where i ordered Holle lebenswert .. had asked them about vitamin D and iron in the formula.. they replied saying “The Vitamin D conists mostly of Vitamin D2 and D3.(7,5 μg per 100 gramm)
The formula contains 4,4 mg Iron per 100 gramm.”
Do you think i still need to go for DHA +Vitamin D3 or just DHA? also i keep reading about ARA.. do you think i need to supplement DHA+ARA?
Hi Niki! Personally, I only supplemented with DHA (not DHA + ARA) — so I’d talk to your pediatrician about whether ARA supplementation is necessary. For Vitamin D, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that all babies receive routine vitamin D supplementation (400 IU per day) due to decreased sunlight exposure and an increase in rickets. We gave Layla 400 IU of vitamin D every day, even when she was having formula. I’m not sure how (7,5 μg per 100 grams) translates to IU – so I’d ask your pediatrician about that as well. Hope that helps!
Hi, I had the same question, because I want to supplement my daughter with Vitamin D.
She’s on Lebenswert bio 2, it contains 1,1 ug of Vitamin D per 100 ml of fluid intake, that means 40 IU per 4 oz aprox. (10 IU per ounce).
That calculation can help you find if your baby needs more Vitamin D.
Anjali, What Vitamin D supplement do you recommend?
Thank you, you have been very helpful!
Hi Yolanda! I love this one – nothing artificial added – just pure Vitamin D drops!
Anjali.. Holle lebenswert formula has vitamin D in the ingredients list should i still supplement with Vitamin D3?also i dont see iron.. since i am not breast feeding i want make sure i am giving them everything they would need for their growth.
Hi Niki! It depends on how much Vitamin D is in the Holle formula. If it’s 100% of the daily value needed for an infant, you don’t need to supplement. For iron, don’t worry about it. Most infant formulas don’t have much iron because infants already have iron stores from birth that they retain for the first 4-6 months of life 🙂
Hi Anjali-
Thanks for this article and all of your research. I’ve been using Similac liquid ready to feed. Apparently there are better options out there – I wanted RTF originally since it could be sterilized, as powder cannot. Anyway, I ordered some Hipp and baby seems to be doing fine with it. My question is, if she’s taking 6-7/oz per feed to Similac, would I give her the same amount of Hipp? She is 6 months and we’re starting to introduce solids, but we’re doing baby led weaning so she’s not actually ingesting much food yet – more just playing with it 🙂 I just want to make sure she’s getting enough nourishment.
Also, the directions for Hipp say you have to boil the water. Can we just use filtered water? And it also says you can’t prepare ahead of time – I think with other formulas you can pre-mix some for the fridge. Or, do you think it’s ok to pre-measure out some powder into bottles and then just add water when you’re ready to use? Any thoughts on that? Sorry, new to powder 🙂 Thanks!
Hi Dania! Of course! I’m so glad this post was helpful 🙂 So yes, you can give her the same amount of HiPP as she was drinking of Similac — 6-7oz per feed is totally fine. I think, even with solids, Layla was doing about 7oz 3 times a day of formula (and now she does 7oz 3 times a day of milk) — so they’ll be drinking a significant amount of milk for some time! So yes, for HiPP – you don’t have to boil the water – we used filtered water and boiled water for Layla and both were fine. You can’t prepare HiPP ahead of time and keep it in the fridge unfortunately, you have to use it within 2 hours of making it. But yes, you can measure out the powder and the water separately and then just mix when you’re ready to use! Hope that helps, let me know if you have any other questions!
Anjali.. I have too many questions for you today 😉 have to tried cloth diapers? i saw some online the re useable cloth diapers.. any idea ?
Haha! No worries at all 🙂 I didn’t use cloth diapers for Layla, I just used disposable.
Anjali.. Nordic naturals has DHA + Vitamin D3 together you think that should be ok? which probiotics did you use?
Hi Niki! That should be fine 🙂 For the probiotic, we used Jarrow Formulas for Babies. Hope that helps!
Hi Anjali, i found this website organic baby food.. they have starter kit (15 boxes) and big kit ( 45 boxes) and much cheaper than most places and its shipped from Germany.. have you ordered from these people anytime.. my only concern is why they are giving for almost half the price when its so much in demand! Yeah they have additional shipping cost too.. but its still much cheaper. Any idea?
Hi Niki! I haven’t used that website (organic baby food) before — but it could be cheaper because it’s shipped from Germany vs. the UK? Not sure though. I’d just call them to find out and make sure that the formula is authentic before you buy it!
Hi Anjali, thanks again..i will take 20 boxes of holle lebenswert and few boxes of Baby’s Only Lactorelief which Sage suggested . Can you let me know which DHA you used ? and also what other supplements you think i should take from US and go .. because i really dont know about the quality available in India . Let me know what all supplements you gave your baby from 0-6 months. Also i am making a list of baby essentials i would need soon after delivery and until i am in India .. i will fwd the list to you soon please let me know if i need to add anything more to that list.. also i heard all the newly bought clothes for the babies should be washed once before using it on the newly borns.. is it so? if so then is there any mild detergents for the baby’s clothes or the regular detergent we use . Can it be machine washed? Please let me know.
That sounds like a good plan Niki! For DHA, I used Nordic Naturals DHA for babies. I also gave Layla Vitamin D as a supplement (bought this one from Amazon). And we did probiotics when she was an infant because she had a lot of gas issues, but we stopped the probiotics once her gas issues resolved (after about 8 weeks we didn’t need it anymore). So yeah that’s about it! DHA + Probiotics + Vitamin D. I didn’t worry about any other supplements mainly because I was nursing her from 0-6 months and supplementing with formula here and there, so I figured she was getting everything she needed that way. I’d double check with your pediatrician if there are any other supplements they’d recommend in addition to DHA/Probiotics/Vitamin D. So yes, you should wash all newly bought clothes, blankets, washcloths, towels, etc. — anything the baby will be using that’s going to touch their skin — before you use it. Any detergent that’s free of dyes and fragrances (like All Free and Clear, or any detergent from Whole Foods, etc.) will work. And yes, machine washing is totally fine! I’ve never hand washed any of Layla’s clothes. Hope that helps, feel free to send over your list once you have it, and don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any other questions!
Hi Anjali,
I read that you give Layla vitamin D also besides formula. 1.) May I know why? Until when? I thought vitamin D in formula that baby drinks is enough already, am I wrong? how bout multivitamin for infant? and then 2.) for probiotics, is it for gassy baby only?
Thank you for your time and answering my question…
Hi Lia! Our pediatrician recommended we give Layla Vitamin D even when she was on formula because the formula didn’t have the full 400 IU recommended daily for babies. For probiotics, we only gave it to her when she was an infant and was having major gas issues, but that doesn’t mean you can’t give your baby probiotics for longer than the infant stage if you need to! Hope that helps, and you should also follow up with your pediatrician to make sure they are comfortable with the supplements and formula you’re giving your little one 🙂
I give my baby Holle and HiPP formula, do you suggest I should give vitamin D too? and also probiotics, maybe?
For probiotics, honestly it’s up to you. We didn’t give Layla probiotics after she was about 2-3 months old because her gas issues resolved themselves. I’d ask your pediatrician what they’re comfortable with, for both the probiotics and Vitamin D. I can only tell you what we did with Layla, which was Vitamin D supplements along with the formula, and probiotics for the first 2-3 months of her life 🙂 Hope that helps!
Hi. My friend from UK sent me a hipp formula thru UPS. UPS won’t deliver it to me unless I get an FDA Registration. Any idea on how to get the registration?
That’s so strange! If the formula was shipped to you in a personal package (and sent to your home address), I don’t know why UPS would ask you to get an FDA registration. FDA registrations are for food facilities and distributors. I think you’ll just have to call UPS to figure out what’s going on — sorry I can’t be more helpful here! I hope you’re able to get your package from them!
I am coming up against the same issue. Were you able to sort this out ?
I hope Hazel can help here — sorry I don’t have a better answer to this other than trying to call UPS to sort it out! Good luck Chris! Let me know if you figure out a solution!
Hi Anjali, I’m expecting a baby in December and unfortunately can’t breastfeed. After extensive research online, I definitely want to go with either Holle or HiPP but am really struggling!!!! I like the idea of prebiotics and DHA in the HiPP but have also been concerned about the whole aluminum issue. That being said, it looks like the problem was with the powder and not the ready made but the ready made formula has soy lecithin. The problem with Holle Lebenswert is that no one ever has it in stock and I don’t want to commit to a formula that I cannot predictably get. So at this point I’m trying to decide between 1) Holle with the maltodextrin (just bc I know I will be able to get it more predictably than the Lebenswert 2) HiPP ready made with the soy lecithin or 3) HiPP powder with the questions re aluminum. I would LOVE your opinion on which you think would be the lesser of all evils (maltodextrin, soy lecithin or aluminum)! Also, how important do you think the DHA and prebiotics are (because maybe that would push me more towards HiPP)? Would really really appreciate any thoughts/recommendations!!!! Thanks so so much!
Hi Cathy! First of all – congratulations!!! I’m so excited for you 🙂 I’m sorry to hear that you can’t breastfeed, but you will still have a great experience feeding your little one formula 🙂 Regarding the aluminum issues with HiPP, honestly the only study that was done was done in 2013, and even that study’s conclusions weren’t definitive: apparently all of the aluminum levels were all within current guideline limits and there was no evidence they were harmful to children, especially since there is aluminum in drinking water/etc. For Layla, I used HiPP mainly because Holle Lebenswert wasn’t available at that time. Now that it is, I’d probably go with Holle Lebenswert the next time I have a baby. But I’d probably also call HiPP and find out what the recent aluminum studies have been since it’s over 2 years since the last report came out (and if the report is different, I’d go with HiPP). For you — if you are concerned about the potential aluminum in HiPP, I think it’s a toss up between Holle with the maltodextrin and HiPP with the soy lecithin. I might go with Holle just because I like the powdered formulas better. I did like that HiPP had the DHA + prebiotics, but you can supplement with baby DHA from nordic naturals so I don’t think that’s as big of a deal. One thing you could try is to order Holle Lebenswert in bulk right now before your baby is due, since the boxes last forever and then you won’t have to worry about supply. Otherwise just go with regular Holle. I hope that helps! Let me know if you have any other questions and I hope you have an amazing last few months pre-baby and a smooth delivery!!
Thanks so much Anjali! Just two more quick questions: 1) Any particular reason you like the powder formulas better than the ready made? and 2) This is probably stupid but I literally have no clue: do you add the DHA supplement directly to the formula? or do you give it separately? Thanks again!!!!
Hi Cathy! No problem! Answers in order 🙂 1) Oh – I like the powdered formulas better because they are more economical/cheaper and they can usually be stored longer. You get more bang for your buck with them — sometimes the ready made can be double the cost of powdered! (not sure how the pricing works with HiPP though). 2) You can add the DHA supplement to the formula (as long as you know your baby will finish the whole bottle) — I usually gave it separately using a dropper and then added it to her food when she moved to solids. Hope that helps!
Thanks so much Anjali!!! I also contacted HiPP regarding the aluminum issue…this was their response:
“HiPP analyses all the critical raw materials for aluminium contamination on a very regular basis and selects the raw materials with the lowest levels possible to ensure we are providing the safest products possible for babies. The level in our products is kept as low as technically and practicably possible. The level of aluminium in raw materials fluctuates widely as it is an abundant metal in the earth, and this is something we have little control over. The levels of aluminium mentioned in the published studies only show a ‘snap-shot’ of levels in products and other batches of products, not tested, could very easily have much lower levels. At HiPP we have done analysis of final products and generally the content of aluminium has been found to below the detection limit of 0.5mg/kg powder (much lower than the values found in the study). Please find attached the statement issued by HiPP on the subject of aluminium, together with a statement of the SNE (former: IDACE) concerning aluminium in (infant) nutrition.”
I think you are right– that the aluminum likely isn’t a big issue. Also, they never tested Holle — it’s hard to believe that Holle would be the only one without aluminum.
Thank you so so much for all your advice!!!!
No problem at all Cathy! 🙂 Good to know about HiPP — I think Holle would probably have similar issues if it was tested — so yes! I think HiPP is probably ok 🙂 So glad you were able to reach them and get these details, thanks so much for sharing!
Anjali and Sage,
THANK YOU SO MUCH! you ladies are so helpful.. i learnt so much. Its my first pregnancy and i dont know a thing. Anjali my sister also lives in US and she will be coming to India in Jan, so i am so relived because i can take few boxes with me in November and if holle works for the babies then she will get more while she is coming. Sage thank you so much for letting me know about Baby’s only lactorelief .. i will take few boxes with me just in case. Can you let me know approximately how many boxes i would need for a month for the twins ? Also i wanted to know about the donor milk .. i have read a lot about it and not sure how safe it is, i wont be able to breastfeed for few reasons 🙁 so baby formula and donor milk is the only option. Not sure about the donor milk in India, really scared to try there.. can i use the formula when i am in India and switch to donor milk when i come to US? I will surely read The Holistic Baby Guide by Randall Neustaedter.. since i wont be breast feeding i want to make sure i make up for it someway. Please let me know if you think there are supplements i should definitely not miss. Sage you told me your insurance covered the cost of the formula.. does most insurance cover the cost? Also i would love to be in touch with you to find out more about making your own organic baby food. Thank you both again 🙂
Hi Niki! I’m so glad this discussion has been helpful for you (and thanks Sage too!) That’s great that your sister can bring some boxes of formula with her when she goes to India to visit you – that will be a huge help. For how many boxes of Baby’s Only to get — it looks like each container makes about 84oz of formula. I think newborns take in about 3oz per feeding (if they’re eating 8 times a day) — so that means you’d need at least 12 scoops of formula (24oz) per baby per day (maybe more). So you could potentially go through one container of Baby’s Only every 2 days! That’s super fast, so for 1 month you’d probably need 18 containers — maybe 20 to be safe. Donor milk can be safe and a wonderful option – I’ve known people who have used it. But you have to find an accredited service where you can really trust their verification, storage, and testing practices. Everyone I know who has received donor milk has been connected to a service that provides it via their doctor – so I’d suggest asking your doctor/hospital for a good recommendation. Not sure how donor milk is regulated in India, and I’d be pretty wary of it there so I’d probably only use it once you’re back in the US. For insurance, every insurance company is different unfortunately, so you’ll have to call yours to find out what they cover. For baby food — I’d love to help you in any way I can! When the time comes, you should check out this page on my blog: https://74.220.215.66/~pickyeat/baby-food-recipes/ — I’ve posted my favorite baby food recipes there (Layla absolutely loved all of them, and throughout the process of feeding her solids we’d give her tastes of whatever we were eating to get her used to different spices and textures). Good luck with everything, don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any other questions, and keep us posted on how it all goes!!
Anjali, i will be India for 4-5 months and since its twins i would need a lot of boxes.. i am thinking About 20 boxes of Holle lebenswert and some 20 boxes of formula for lactose intolerant babies.. can you suggest something for lactose intolerant babies. Please let me know what you think of what i am planning.. will it work?
Hi Niki! Ah, I see. That’s quite a long time. I think 20 boxes of Holle Lebenswert sounds good, for the lactose intolerant baby formula – honestly I don’t think there are any options out there that don’t have a bunch of processed ingredients in them (unfortunately :/ ). Most of the non-dairy formulas taste pretty bad and have added sugar/etc. in them. What I’d suggest is just buying the Holle Lebenswert for now, and if your babies turn out to be lactose intolerant, then just buy whatever formula is recommended in India — since the US/UK formulas that I’ve seen aren’t great. You can also just make your own formula if it turns out your babies have a dairy sensitivity (there are some goat’s milk recipes that work great for lactose intolerant babies). Hope that helps!
Hi Niki and Anjali,
Just wanted to pop in to let you know that after a failed attempt at switching over to Holle due to my daughter’s lactose intolerance, we have successfully been supplementing with Baby’s Only Lactorelief for about four and a half months. It is far better than the hydrolized formulas which our allergist originally wanted her on for suspected milk protein allergy. I wish that the primary ingredient wasn’t brown rice syrup; however, it is far better than glucose solids and her body has been tolerating it extremely well.
The customer service at Natures One has been incredible and I really appreciate that it’s a small family owned company, every time I’ve called with questions, I’ve spoken to the same two women. With their assistance, I was even able to get my insurance company to cover the cost of the formula and distribute through Coram, one of their primary distributors. We get 12 cans a month at no cost. Natures One has a medical assistance form on their website that can be filled out by the pediatrician for sensitives such as lactose intolerance or gluten sensitivity, etc.
As for supplements, I highly suggest reading The Holistic Baby Guide by Randall Neustaedter. There is a section on supplements for babies who can’t be breastfed. In addition to the formula and donor milk, we also give our daughter Nordic Naturals Cod Liver Oil – DHA and Vitamin D3, and the following supplements from Klaire Labs: l-glutamine – heals the intestinal lining, infant formula probiotics, prebiotics – to aid in the effectiveness of the probiotics, and digestive enzymes to assist in the digestive process. She has done wonderfully and is extremely healthy which was a major fear of mine when we had so many issues with breastfeeding amidst a wicked bout of postpartum depression after a traumatic birth. My husband and I both had a month long respiratory infection a few months back and she never had even a cough. We also have to regularly take her to the children’s hospital for orthopedic treatment and despite her high level of exposure, she has never had even a cold.
Now that she is seven months, I have found over the past month making my own organic baby food at home to be extremely redemptive and healing in what has been a painful journey of coming to terms with the fact that I was unable to feed my baby in the way that I so desperately longed to be able to.
I’d be happy to answer any questions that you may have.
Sage
Thank you so much for this and for sharing your experience Sage! I’m so glad to hear about Baby’s Only Lactorelief – that’s a great tip to know about for lactose intolerant babies – and that’s so awesome that you got your insurance to cover it! Great tip also on the supplements, I’ll probably look into all of these the next time I have a baby, sounds like your daughter is doing great on all of them. So sorry to hear about how hard the birth was and your postpartum depression – I can’t even imagine how difficult that was. I had a very difficult birth with Layla and probably had my share of baby blues and that was hard enough! So kudos to you for finding ways to heal yourself outside of breastfeeding. Totally agree that making baby food at home can be redemptive and healing, it certainly was for me! Thanks again and take good care 🙂
Anjali, I cant try the formula here because the delivery is in India.
Ah I see — I just replied to your other comment with some other options! Let me know if that makes sense and if you have any other questions!
Hi, I just read your post about Hipp and Holle Organic Formula.
You said that Hipp is a better option than Holle, but I just read that Hipp contains High levels of Aluminum.
Have you heard about that? It seems that maybe Holle is the best option and they also have new formula without maltodextrin. However I want to know if I have to supplement my baby with DHA, because it looks like Holle doesn’t contain enough DHA and ARA. What are your thoughts?
Thank you.
Hi Yolanda! I totally understand your concern — I have seen conflicting articles on whether HiPP contains high levels of aluminum or not – I haven’t gotten a definitive answer one way or the other, and I haven’t gotten a definitive answer how the aluminum levels in HiPP compare to the levels in Holle either. But if you’re concerned, you could definitely go for Holle Lebenswert (which I think is the new version without maltodextrin). I would supplement with DHA – I like the Nordic Naturals Liquid Baby DHA (I used that for Layla – just added it to her oatmeal and it worked great). But I’d double check with your pediatrician to find out what they think about supplementing with DHA. Hope that helps!
Thank you!
Did you supplement with probiotics also? Or only DHA?
No problem! I just did DHA — we did probiotics only for a short time when she was super young (like 2-8 weeks old) – because she was having a lot of gas/discomfort – but after that we just did DHA + breastmilk + formula. Hope that helps!
Hello again Anjali,
What kind of water did you use to mix the formula? I’m concerned about the fluoride levels, since Hipp and Holle both have flouride and water in California is high in flouride and also tap water.
Hi Yolanda! I used reverse osmosis filtered tap water — which removes extra fluoride. You can also get purified water from the grocery store. Hope that helps!
Also .. what do you think of Holle lebenswert ?
I’m currently using Lebenswert Stage 2 with my son and he loves it!!! I’m very happy with it as is he 🙂
Good luck!!!
I think Holle Lebenswert is a great option! It has cleaner ingredients than regular Holle – so I think it’s definitely a step up 🙂 Ariana – so glad Lebenswert is working out well for your son!
Thanks Airana.. i am actually in a big fix.. i will be delivering in India and i have to carry the Baby formula from US since i can get holle or hipp in US.. but if i take in Bulk from US to India and if it doesnt suit the babies then i really dont know what i would do 🙁 what if the babies are lactose intolerant.. i am so confused .
Hi Niki! Hmm that is tough. Do you know how long you will be in India for? Because if it’s only for a month or so, you could just buy a couple boxes of either HiPP or Holle and take them with you — and depending on how much your baby is eating and how much formula you need, you can order more when you get back to the US, or see if you can find a company that ships to India during that time? Newborns eat very frequently but they don’t eat a ton in each feeding, so you might be able to buy just a few boxes and make them work. And that way, if you do buy a few boxes and your baby is lactose intolerant, then you won’t have wasted a ton of money on formula that you can’t use (and I’m sure you can give it to someone else who can use it!)
Thanks Anjali, i also wanted to know if i am going with Holle or Hipp should is go for a bulk order.. cause i dont know which would suit the twins, also i would be in India for the delivery and i dont know if i can get it shipped there if i go short of the formula. Should i take some 20 boxes of both hipp and holle from US and try what works best , I am going crazy thinking what i should be doing! Please advice .
Will you be able to try the formulas before you go to India? And how long will you be in India? If you won’t be able to try the formula / pick one / order it in bulk before your trip, you might just have to pick one without trying it first and bulk order it before your trip — because it will probably take a few weeks to get it shipped to India (assuming you find a place that ships to India). I can tell you that since both Holle / Lebenswert and HiPP are super mild, most babies will do well on either one of them, so I think you’ll be ok no matter which one you pick. Hope that helps! And I hope your trip goes well!