Are you pregnant or do you have a newborn? Choosing the best infant formula for your baby is a big decision. There are many options available.
During your search, you may have heard about European baby formula. Are you wondering if this would be a good choice? Keep reading to learn the facts so you can make the best decision.
Different Types of European Infant Formula
As with the American formula industry, you have many European infant formula options. The following provides an overview to help you learn about the choices.
Goat Milk Infant Formula
For many thousands of years, people have used goats as their source of milk and meat. They reproduce often providing an ongoing supply of milk suitable for household consumption.
Pasteurized goat milk provides a good option for infant formula. The Journal of Food Science published an article about goat milk formula in January 2021. They found many studies supporting the use of fortified goat milk formula.
This article looked at the comparison of goat and cow’s milk. It stated that goat’s milk may have a different influence on the digestive tract than cow’s milk. Clinical trials have also confirmed that fortified goat’s milk is nutritionally adequate.
Organic Infant Formula
Organic formulas include cow’s milk protein-based options for infants. The manufacturers alter the cow’s milk to mimic breast milk as close as possible. For most babies, this formula is easy to digest.
An organic designation means that the cows must be grown on biodynamic Demeter farms. The formula must contain at least 95 percent organic ingredients. Also, the components must follow these U.S. organic standards:
- No antibiotics
- No artificial flavors or colors
- No genetically modified organisms
- No growth hormones
- No insecticides or pesticides
- No synthetic preservatives
The European standards are even more strict. The formula must get at least 30 percent of its calories from lactose. It also can’t contain syrup solids or sugar. Another restriction prevents any synthetic nutrients obtained using chemical solvents.
European Infant Formula Brands
The following describes some of the leading brands of European infant formulas. This broad selection allows you to find the best fit for your baby.
Holle
Holle organic cow milk formula ranks as one of the best baby formulas in Europe. It works great as a supplement for breastfed babies.
This company also offers two stages of organic goat milk formula. This is great if you prefer to avoid cow’s milk or for baby’s with problems digesting cow’s milk. Goat milk may provide a less irritating option for the digestive tract.
If the goat milk works well, your baby can transition to the A2 formula at six months of age. This is made from cows that only make A beta-casein protein.
Giving formula with this protein provides a wide range of important amino acids. They ensure the strong growth of muscles, bones, and the immune system.
When your child reaches 12 months, they’re ready for the A2 Stage 3 formula. This provides the nutrition they need for healthy development.
Holle’s Lebenswert has been certified as a trustworthy product for children. It contains only organically extracted ingredients. Pediatricians have designated this as a nutritionally complete formula.
HiPP Organic
HiPP formula contains no gluten, soy lecithin, maltodextrin, or other synthetic ingredients. This can be the answer to solving your baby’s reflux.
This formula has its own HiPP Organic Guarantee. This company set its standards and testing stricter than required by EU law. You’ll find a diverse range of formulas to choose from.
The milk comes only from farms using sustainable farming techniques. Also, they only use lactose instead of any plant-based sweeteners.
Kabrita
Kabrita offers another goat milk formula option. This company also makes infant cereal mixes and snacks using goat milk-based products.
Nanny Care
Nanny Care provides a goat milk-based formula intended for infants starting at birth. This company designs formulas that offer a nutritionally complete option to breast milk. This also works well as a supplement for breastfed babies.
Making the Best Infant Formula Choice for Your Baby
Infant nutrition is critical to healthy growth and development. A few newborns need specialized formulas. For example, babies with metabolic diseases, intestinal malformations, or preemies.
In these cases, it’s vital to discuss the formula options with your pediatrician. All babies need the correct amount of water, vitamins, fat, carbohydrates, protein, and minerals. It’s key to choose a formula that has the right amount of these ingredients.
Human breast milk contains two long-chain fatty acids called DHA and ARA. They’re important for healthy neural and brain development in infants.
Fortified formulas contain these key fatty acids to promote your baby’s health. Iron is also included in most fortified formulas. In some cases, the doctor may want you to avoid products with iron supplements.
Talk with your pediatrician if your baby isn’t tolerating the current formula. They may need to try something different. For example, some babies are lactose intolerant and need a lactose-free formula.
It’s important to know that any infant formula legally sold in the U.S. must receive FDA approval. This applies whether the formula was made in the U.S. or imported from another country.
Do You Think European Infant Formula May Be a Good Choice for Your Baby?
It’s important to become educated about your formula options before making a choice. This article provided an overview of European infant formula types available. At Formuland, we provide a variety of organic formulas to fit your baby’s needs.
We sell cow milk and goat milk infant formulas. You’ll find several brands including HiPP, Holle, Lebenswert, Kabrita, Nanny Care, and more.
All items ship from California with guaranteed safe, irradiation-free, and fast shipping. We’re now offering free shipping on U.S. purchases of $100 or more. Contact us today to get answers to your questions.
