Many parents in the US are willing to pay more to get European baby formulas for their infants because there is a perception that they are better than what is available in the country. In a study carried out by the AAP (American Academy of Pediatrics) in 2018, 20% of American parents said that they prefer imported formulas from Europe.
There is some truth in this as well –
European formula milk is sourced from grass-fed, pasture-raised
goats or cows
The animals are raised at biodynamic farms that follow ethical
practices
The European Commission has imposed stricter regulations
compared to the US FDA (Food and Drug Administration)
HiPP, Kendamil, Holle, Lebenswert, and Loulouka have all become very popular in the US. Here are some of the top European baby formulas. They are so good that you won’t have to decide whether to breastfeed or bottle-feed your infant.
Kendamil Stage 1 – This baby formula is from Britain and is suitable for infants up to the age of 6 months. It is based on cream milk, which is produced organically in the mountainous Lake District of northwest England. Kendamil Stage 1 incorporates prebiotics that improves gut health. It can also soften the stool to provide relief. Its Plant-based Omega-3 DHA is good for the eye and brain. There is no palm oil. It uses organic coconut oil instead. There are no GMOs. Corn-based sweeteners are also not used in this product. It has been certified by the EU.
Holle Goat Dutch Stage 1 – Holle Goat Stage 1 is also good for babies up to the age of 6 months. It is developed from goat milk, which makes it a great choice for those who are allergic to cow milk. This product contains organic compounds like maltodextrin, Lactose, and vegetable oil. Its DHA is from Algae oil, whereas in most others, it is derived from fish oil. And unlike some other formulas, you won’t find any palm oil here as well. It also contains ALA and natural whey. Holle also produces Stages 2 and 3 from goat milk, so it gets easier to change. This product is Demeter certified.
HiPP Germany Stage 1 – Packed with vitamins for neural and immune development, HiPP Germany Stage 1 is developed from whey. It is gentle for newborns and also nutritionally complete. Infants up to their first year can have this formula. It can be used exclusively for formula feeding or can be mixed with breastfeeding. It also contains prebiotic oligosaccharide (GOS) that is good for gut health, Omega 3 & 6, and all vital minerals and vitamins that a baby needs for good health and growth. HiPP Stage 1 doesn’t have any added wheat, egg, nut, or soya. It is gluten-free.
HiPP Hypoallergenic Stage 1 – This is another good baby formula for infants who are sensitive to cow milk. It helps them because the proteins here are broken down into smaller portions, which helps the digestive system can break down the proteins easily. Hypoallergenic Stage 1 is also developed from whey. There is no casein. It resembles the taste of natural breast milk, which makes it easier for babies to accept this. There is no soy, corn syrup, or added sugar. It contains prebiotics, probiotics, and omega-three, and six fatty acids. There are two versions of this formula – one with organic starch and the second that is starch-free.
HiPP UK Stage 1 – The UK version of HiPP is also very good. Its prebiotic fibers are from galactooligosaccharides lactose, which is similar to what you will find in breast milk. HiPP UK Stage 1 doesn’t have any preservatives, added colors, sugars, or flavors. It also contains Omega 3 and 6 essential fatty acids that are important for the development of the brain. No genetically modified ingredients have been added. This formula is gluten, soy, and starch free. It comes in a larger container as well, which means it is going to last longer. And, of course, the parents will also be able to save money.
Enfamil Gentlease – Clinical trials have proved that this is a partially-hydrolyzed formula that can reduce gas and its associated fussiness within just a day. Many babies also find the partially- hydrolyzed easier to digest. It is also rich in DHA which helps in the development of the brain. This instant formula contains prebiotics and choline. However, it contains soy and milk proteins that may make it difficult for babies with an allergy. Some parents have also commented that it leaves a residue in the bottle.
Similac NeoSure – This baby formula also stands out because it offers additional calories. It also contains nutrients like phosphorus, magnesium, and calcium, all of which are essential for growth in the first year. It is particularly good for premature babies who will have to catch up quickly. Most parents who have used NeoSure agree that it did help their infants catch up. However, some of them also reported that it caused gas and constipation.
HiPP Anti Reflux – The HiPP Formula is good for babies who spit up or have regurgitation after drinking milk. Parents rightly get worried that the infant is feeling discomfort and not getting adequate nutrition when she is spitting up. This formula contains organic lactose, organic vegetable oil, and whey proteins. It also has Locust Bean Gum or Carob Bean Gum, which makes it creamier and thicker. There is no soy, corn syrup, or sugar. Babies from birth till the time they start having solid food can have this formula.
European baby formulas are often better than what is available in the US. The regulations are stricter, which makes a difference. In Europe, 30% of the calories in formula milk must be from lactose. The inclusion of different types of sugar is prohibited, except in some cases, where there are specific formulas for premature babies. But whatever formula you use, make sure that you consult the pediatrician first.
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