The 9 Best Baby Formulas of 2024, According to Pediatricians and Moms

reviewed mark Medically Reviewed by Micah Resnick, M.D., F.A.A.P.  | July 30, 2024
Best Baby Formulas

QUICK SUMMARY

The best baby formula is Enfamil, according to experts and parents from the What to Expect community, based on price, availability and ingredients. Other favorites include Kirkland, Aussie Bubs and Bobbie.

Whether you’re strictly formula-feeding or nursing and supplementing with formula, you want to choose the best baby formula for your little one — that is to say one that’s readily available and is easily tolerated by them. 

In short, infant formula contains a variety of important nutrients, vitamins and minerals similar to those found in breast milk, in just the right amounts. “Baby formula is the only appropriate alternative [to breast milk] that offers complete nutrition during a baby’s first year of life,” says Whitney Casares, M.D., M.P.H., F.A.A.P., a Portland, Oregon-based pediatrician. 

Even though there are so many different formula brands on the market, there isn’t one “right” option for your little one. In fact, you can rest-assured that your formula is safe because the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) requires every formula to have 30 essential nutrients that growing babies need, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). Ultimately, the best infant formula is one that is readily available to you, in your price range, and well-tolerated by your child.  

How We Chose the Best Infant Formulas 

To decide on the best baby formulas, we spoke with four pediatricians who weighed in on the different types of formulas and what to look for. We also polled over 600 parents in the What to Expect community during the What to Expect Feeding Awards to vote on 14 different formulas and choose their favorite. Finally, we asked four parents on the What to Expect staff with five children between them to explain what formulas they used and would recommend. 

We chose the nine best formulas for babies based on this feedback from pediatricians and parents, ensuring that each pick is one that is readily available to most parents and is generally well-tolerated by babies.

Why Trust Us?

What to Expect is the world’s most trusted pregnancy and parenting brand for a reason. Our product recommendations are based on expert parent insight, advice from medical professionals and feedback from the millions of parents and parents-to-be in our community. Our editors adhere to the highest research and reporting standards and our team of vetted OB/GYNs, pediatricians and other health professionals ensure our recommended products are safe and effective for you and your baby.

Best Baby Formula Overall

Enfamil

best formula enfamil neuropro
Buying Options
Amazon
Amazon
$1.68 per ounce
See Now Opens a new window Target
Target
$1.69 per ounce
See Now Opens a new window Walmart
Walmart
$1.66 per ounce
See Now Opens a new window Walgreens
Walgreens
$1.93 per ounce
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Pros
  • Available as powder or ready-to-feed
  • Reusable tub
Cons
  • Container and scoop design could be better

Sizes available: 20.7 ounces, 28.3 ounces

Why We
Love it
Community
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Why We Love It

Backed by many pediatricians and parents alike, it’s hard to find fault with Enfamil’s extensive family of baby formulas. The brand recently received a 2023 What to Expect Feeding Award, and a 2023 What to Expect Mom Must-Have Award, so it’s clearly a favorite among What to Expect parents as well.

Enfamil’s Enspire and Nutramigen varieties also earned spots on this list, but their NeuroPro line is a go-to for many families. This formula also provides brain-building nutrients like DHA, as well as immune system-boosting prebiotics.

The structure makes this milk-based formula generally easy for babies to digest (although the brand also has specific lines to address common feeding issues — more on that later).

“My daughter was born as the formula shortage began, so we were forced to try a few different brands,” says Leah Rocketto, What to Expect’s Associate Commerce Editor. “Not only did she spit up less when drinking Enfamil, but her poop wasn’t as foul-smelling.” Leah, and many What to Expect moms, also appreciated that the container was dishwasher safe for continued use. “Being able to order refill packs instead of individual tubs was much more cost effective, andalso gave me some peace of mind when formula was hard to find.” This formula is also available as a powder or ready-to-feed formula, as well as in a gentle variety that may be beneficial for little ones prone to spit-up and gas. And at $1.68 an ounce, it’s relatively affordable.

To top it off, some What to Expect community moms were seriously impressed by Enfamil’s customer service, from general assistance to even receiving formula coupons.

Community Reviews
  • "We’ve used this since birth and it’s been problem free!"

  • "We’ve used this since birth and it’s been problem free!! We tried the gentle ease neuro pro and it actually did the opposite so we went back to this!!"

  • "I've been using neuropro with my daughter since she was 4 months old and if you actually go onto the enfamil website they have an option where you can compare the two formulas. Neuropro has prebiotics which help promote the growth of healthy bacteria in the stomach and helps to break down foods easier, it also has MFGM which is found in breastmilk and it helps with brain development. I personally feel like it's the closest formula to breastmilk and its easier on LO tummies."

Best Subscription Baby Formula

Bobbie

best formulas bobbie
Buying Options
Bobbie
Bobbie
$1.84 per ounce
See Now Opens a new window Target
Target
$1.84 per ounce
See Now Opens a new window
Pros
  • Female-founded and mom-led
  • Easy-to-use website
  • Subscriptions available
  • Excellent customer service
Cons
  • More expensive than other formulas

Sizes available: 14.1 ounces, 24 ounces

Why We
Love it
Community
Reviews
Why We Love It

Formula subscriptions have been on the rise in recent years, and Bobbie has long reigned supreme. Even during the height of the formula shortage, Bobbie was able to keep up with subscribers — including new ones like myself. This is just one of the ways Bobbie has impressed me and other moms over the years. Their customer service is top-notch, and I’d often receive texts from them asking if I was pacing OK with my formula supply and whether I needed more cans early (often, I did).

Additionally, Bobbie’s website is easy to use. For starters, there’s a whole page dedicated to its ingredients and what each one does. There’s helpful guidance for how many cans you should buy based on baby’s age and whether or not you’re also breastfeeding — or you can snag a “starter bundle,” which gives you one can at half price.

Of course, quality service is nothing without a quality recipe. But Bobbi delivers there, too. It’s European-style recipe is both FDA-approved and meets the most recent European Union (EU) standards when it comes to ingredients like DHA and iron. This formula is also USDA-certified organic, meaning the ingredients were created without GMOs, synthetic pesticides or fertilizers. Bonus: Bobbie sources its key ingredients from — like pasture-raised dairy, whey and casein from small family farms in the U.S., for instance. It’s also the only female-founded and mom-led infant formula company in the U.S.

One considerable downside, as with many subscription services, is that Bobbie can be hard to find. Although it’s available at Target, their stock can often be low or empty. This may present a challenge if you're in a bind and need formula faster than it can be delivered.

Community Reviews
  • "Been using it since our baby turned 3 months old and he loves it! It’s easy on his stomach) uses the bathroom frequently and isn’t fussy at all! We love Bobbie!"

  • "I’ve used Bobbie exclusively since the day we got home from the hospital. My son is doing great on it! He had donor milk in the hospital and we had zero issues switching to this formula."

  • "We absolutely love Bobbie — we combo-fed her until 5 months when I stopped pumping and now she’s fully on it. It's worth the money to us since the ingredients are on par with what we prefer to feed our daughter. She’s also never had any issues with taste or poop on it."

Best Formula for Breastfed Babies

Enfamil Enspire

best formulas enfamil enspire
Buying Options
Target
Target
$2.29 per ounce
See Now Opens a new window Walmart
Walmart
$2.29 per ounce
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Pros
  • Includes lactoferrin to more closely resemble breast milk
  • Reusable tub
Cons
  • Only available as a powder
  • More expensive

Sizes available: 20.5 ounces

Why We
Love it
Community
Reviews
Why We Love It

Enfamil's Enspire is the brand's closest formula to breast milk, thanks to the inclusion of proteins found in colostrum, like lactoferrin. (In fact, Enspire is the first and only infant formula in the U.S. to include lactoferrin as an ingredient, according to the brand.) Combined with nutrients like DHA and choline, plus all the other essential vitamins and minerals your baby needs to grow, it's a great pick to consider.

Lots of What to Expect community parents rely on this formula. Several report their little ones taking to it quickly and having positive experiences. "I use Enspire and baby loves it," one parent reported. "I pumped and supplemented with the formula. Went back and forth between this and BM [breast milk] for 6 months and never had any issues."

Other benefits include a proprietary blend of dual probiotics for immune system support, plus a reusable tub you can purchase refills for.

One downside with this line, though, is its higher cost than some other standard milk-based formulas (it’s $2.29 an ounce, one of the pricier picks on this list). Some parents report it being a little harder to find in stores, too, and it's also only available as a powder.

Community Reviews
  • "My LO has drank this since February when I went back to work and she has had zero issues transitioning from breast milk."

  • "I breastfed my daughter for 2 months and then switched over to Enfamil Enspire. I was really worried about formula making her colicky, but she never had issues on this formula. I would highly recommend. We’ll be using it from the get go with baby #2!"

  • "I EBF but a few times we've had to give her a bottle of formula. We used Enfamil Enspire and my LO took to it very well. She likes it, didn't have any tummy troubles after and had regular BMs the few times we gave it."

Best Formula for Gassy Babies

Similac Alimentum

best formulas similac
Buying Options
Amazon
Amazon
$2.49 per ounce
See Now Opens a new window Target
Target
$3.02 per ounce
See Now Opens a new window Walgreens
Walgreens
$3.30 per ounce
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Pros
  • Formulated to be gentle on tummies for little ones with gas and colic
Cons
  • One of the priciest formula varieties on the market
  • Some parents dislike the smell

Sizes available: 12.1 ounces

Why We
Love it
Community
Reviews
Why We Love It

If your little one is suffering from symptoms of gas and colic, Similac’s Alimentum may be worth a try. It’s a particular favorite among What to Expect community parents whose babies are gassy and colic-prone. This formula includes the necessary ingredients to boost brain and eye development and provide your baby the nutrition she needs, but it also has a hypoallergenic milk protein that helps eliminate allergic reactions and colic symptoms due to protein sensitivities.Alimentum is also available in a ready-to-feed format for families who prefer to take that route.

Alimentum is expensive, however — at $2.49 an ounce, it’s not exactly a budget-friendly pick. If your baby doesn’t have symptoms of gas or colic, you likely don’t need to spend more on a special formula like this. When in doubt, ask your pediatrician what they recommend for your baby’s symptoms.

Community Reviews
  • “"limentum. It's expensive but does help! My oldest used it for a milk allergy but my youngest is currently using it for colic."

  • "My baby has allergies which caused her reflux and a really bad skin rash. A week on Alimentum and it cleared right up."

  • "My daughter was put on Alimentum and was a whole new baby after. She slept better and was all around happier."

Best Organic Baby Formula

Earth’s Best Organic Infant Formula

best formulas earths best organic
Buying Options
Amazon
Amazon
$1.56 per ounce
See Now Opens a new window Walmart
Walmart
$1.65 per ounce
See Now Opens a new window Walgreens
Walgreens
$2.05 per ounce
See Now Opens a new window
Pros
  • More affordable than lots of organic formulas
  • Easy to open
  • No smell
Cons
  • Only available as a powder

Sizes available: 21 ounces

Why We
Love it
Community
Reviews
Why We Love It

If you prefer to buy an organic baby formula for your little one, consider Earth’s Best Organic Formula. Not only does it have all the essential nutrients your baby needs to develop and grow, but it’s also one of the most affordable organic formulas on the market.

This milk-based powder formula is produced from cows fed with certified organic grain and hay, which are grown without any synthetic pesticides or fertilizers. It includes all the key ingredients your baby needs, plus DHA and ARA for brain and eye development and lutein for eyes. To top it off, it’s the brand’s closest formula to breast milk.

I used this formula for about four months with my first son, and I appreciated the fact that it’s organic but has such an accessible price point. Compared to some other formulas I had tried, I also found this one very easy to mix.

Reviewers also appreciate the packaging, which includes an easy-pull seal under its lid. Also nice: While some powdered formulas have a (totally harmless and subtle) smell, a number of parents mention that they like that Earth’s Best formula doesn’t have such a scent. 

The brand also offers a sensitive variety if your pediatrician recommends it. 

Community Reviews
  • "We use Earth’s Best Organic with LO and also used it with my first. They both have done great with it, no issues, and a huge plus for me is that it has no bad smell."

  • "My first was EFF with Earth’s Best and I really liked it."

Best Formula for Newborns

Aussie Bubs Organic Grass Fed Infant Formula

best formulas aussie bubs
Buying Options
Amazon
Amazon
$1.49 per ounce
See Now Opens a new window Target
Target
$1.42 per ounce
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Pros
  • Affordable organic option
  • Widely available
Cons
  • Only available as a powder

Sizes available: 28.2 ounces

Why We
Love it
Community
Reviews
Why We Love It

Aussie Bubs Organic Grass Fed Infant Formula is not only another excellent option for parents who would prefer an organic formula, but also for newborns specifically. As you might guess, Aussie Bubs is manufactured in Australia, but this company is FDA-compliant and was given the green light by the agency to import to the U.S. during the formula shortage. This Stage 1 formula is made to be extra sensitive on newborns' stomachs, who are fed more times a day than when they get older. 

Aussie Bubs’ milk-based powder is made with grass-fed organic cow’s milk that contains milk fat globule membrane (MFGM), as well as probiotics. The brand’s formulas are Clean Label Project certified, which means they have been extensively tested for chemicals that could be concerning. Many parents in the What to Expect community report that they switched to this formula during the shortage when their go-to brand was unavailable and were pleasantly surprised by how well their babies did on it.

Worth noting: While most U.S. formulas are designed broadly for infants, Aussie Bubs’ milk-based powder formulas are stage-based. Stage 1 is for 0-6 month olds and Stage 2 is formulated for 6-12 month olds — so make sure to purchase the right type for your little one’s age.

Community Reviews
  • "I just gave him [Aussie Bubs] last night and he’s honestly done amazing. Actually sounds like a little less reflux than even when he’s on my breast milk."

  • "I breastfeed and formula feed my newborn. We use Aussie bubs! Great brand."

  • "I'm very happy with the brand, and if I have a second kiddo requiring formula, will go the Aussie Bubs route."

Best Baby Formula for Constipation

Gerber Good Start SoothePro Formula Powder

best formulas gerber
Buying Options
Amazon
Amazon
$1.66 per ounce
See Now Opens a new window Target
Target
$1.40 per ounce
See Now Opens a new window Walmart
Walmart
$1.58 per ounce
See Now Opens a new window Walgreens
Walgreens
$1.75 per ounce
See Now Opens a new window
Pros
  • Gentle on sensitive tummies
  • Contains probiotics
Cons
  • Only available as a powder

Sizes available: 19.4 ounces, 30.6 ounces

Why We
Love it
Community
Reviews
Why We Love It

Finding a baby formula that agrees with a sensitive stomach can involve some trial and error. Many parents in the What to Expect community swear by Gerber’s Good Start line, particularly for constipation, and for good reason. The brand has developed a variety of blends to suit various conditions that can affect newborns, and Gerber SoothePro contains probiotics that may calm her digestive system. (Note, though, that the jury is still out on whether probiotics are beneficial long-term for your baby, so double-check with your pediatrician before trying them, says the AAP.)

This non-GMO milk-based formula also includes DHA for brain and eye development and has no artificial growth hormones. Just note that it’s available in a powder format only.

Something to keep in mind: Your little one may not actually be constipated. “Babies that are formula-fed are going to have less frequent bowel movements and often firmer bowel structure, or stool structure, as opposed to breastfeeding babies,” explains Steven Abelowitz, M.D., F.A.A.P., a pediatrician and regional medical director of Coastal Kids Pediatrics in Newport Beach, California. 

Tina Feeley, M.D., M.P.H., a board-certified pediatrician practicing at Chestnut Hill Pediatrics in Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts and member of the What to Expect Medical Review Board, also adds: “The first thing we actually will look at if the baby's really constipated is: Are the parents mixing this formula correctly? Because a lot of times they're not, and then that can be why the babies are getting constipated from it.”

Bottom line? Check with your pediatrician to make sure your baby is truly constipated before switching formulas, and ask about which one is best for your baby specifically. Some parents do also note that their babies’ bowel movements took time to adjust starting this formula, which is something to keep in mind when making the switch.

Community Reviews
  • "I just started this because my baby girl was dealing with [colic]. I switched to the SoothePro and it’s been so much better!"

  • "We use the Gerber Good Start and it has honestly been a life saver, LO was so fussy and spitting it up we switched to this and all is right in the world again."

  • "My LO has been on Gerber Good Start SoothePro since Nov 23rd! This is the 4th formula he’s been on and he’s doing GREAT!!! He’s eating more, happy, smiling, giggling, totally different baby!"

Best Hypoallergenic Baby Formula

Enfamil Nutramigen

best formulas nutramigen
Buying Options
Amazon
Amazon
$2.44 per ounce
See Now Opens a new window Target
Target
$2.78 per ounce
See Now Opens a new window Walmart
Walmart
$2.78 per ounce
See Now Opens a new window
Pros
  • Hypoallergenic for babies with milk protein allergies
  • Some say it smells better than Alimentum
Cons
  • Expensive
  • Can be hard to find in stock

Sizes available: 12.6 ounces, 32 fluid ounces

Why We
Love it
Community
Reviews
Why We Love It

The Enfamil Nutramigen hypoallergenic formula is designed for babies with food allergies, and includes bonus nutrients like DHA in addition to those that they need. 

“If [babies] have a milk protein allergy, then they would need to go on a hydrolyzed formula, which would be like a Nutramigen or Alimentum — which is still actually based from cow’s milk, but they break down the protein so they're not allergic to it,” explains Dr. Feeley. Enfamil’s Nutramigen is a great hydrolyzed formula option, with several What to Expect community members saying they saw a huge difference when they switched to it.

"Nutramigen was honestly a lifesaver; my son was miserable with his allergy symptoms before we tried it," says Sarah Darby, What to Expect Senior SEO Strategist. "I really liked that Nutramigen wasn’t clumpy when mixed. My son thrived on it!"

Many note that their baby didn’t spit up or get constipated as often as they did before, and one parent in particular found that their baby stopped fighting bottles when they switched to Nutramigen. What’s more is that although this product is very similar to Similac’s Alimentum, which is also a hydrolyzed formula, many parents note that they preferred the smell of Nutramigen, which ultimately made them choose this one instead. 

Community Reviews
  • "I used Nutramigen with my oldest, she is now 15 months old. But it took a week for her to get used to switching from breast milk to formula, but it helped her a lot, she definitely didn’t throw up or get constipated like she used to."

  • "Love Nutramigen! It really does make a difference. Start with the ready to feed bottles, as the powder can create those bubbles and add to air intake. We’ve been on it for a month and haven’t looked back!"

  • "I live in the UK so am lucky enough to get Nutramigen for free but I definitely would have paid for it if it wasn't on prescription! My baby lost 11 oz., wasn't waking for feeds, was throwing up constantly and fighting every bottle — she's like a completely different baby since changing to Nutramigen!"

Most Affordable Baby Formula

Kirkland Signature ProCare

best formulas kirkland
Buying Options
Costco
Costco
$0.64 per ounce
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Pros
  • Much more affordable option
Cons
  • Only available at Costco
  • Texture can be a little foamy

Sizes available: 42 ounces

Why We
Love it
Community
Reviews
Why We Love It

Because all baby formulas in the U.S. must adhere to the same FDA rules and regulations, there’s no reason to buy an expensive formula if you don’t want or have to. Kirkland’s Signature ProCare formula from Costco is a widely loved generic option that parents in the What to Expect community consistently praise for its more affordable price tag.

“My daughter had the same response to Costco’s formula as she did to Enfamil — little spit-up and less stinky poops, so we used the two interchangeably, depending on availability,” says Leah.

It includes all the nutrients and extra ingredients that name-brand formulas do (as well as DHA for brain growth and lutein for baby’s eyes), but comes at a fraction of the price. It also contains no artificial growth hormones, and is certified kosher and certified halal. And although this formula is currently only available at Costco and non-members have to pay a small surcharge, the price per ounce is still significantly lower than other options.

The only (very minor) complaint some parents have about Kirkland formula is that it can sometimes be a little more frothy than other brands after it’s just been mixed. Swirling the bottle gently to incorporate the formula rather than shaking it too hard can help to ease bubbles, parents say. 

Also good to know: More great options that come at a lower price point include Up&Up from Target and Member’s Mark from Sam’s Club, both of which several What to Expect community parents love.

Community Reviews
  • "I switched my LO to the Kirkland brand a few months ago without any issues. It's essentially the same as Enfamil and Similac and half the price. I say give it a try!"

  • "I've only used Costco Kirkland formula and I have had no issues. Can't beat the price!"

  • "We've been using the Costco brand formula and it's been working out great for us! The price is amazing!"

What to Look for in Baby Formula

Although baby formula is patterned after breast milk to provide baby with the same essential vitamins and nutrients, not all formulas are alike. Ahead, we explain some of the most important features to consider when deciding on a baby formula:

  • Type: The foundations of baby formula are usually roughly the same, but there are a handful of different types of baby formula to choose from. Milk-based formulas are the most common type, according to the AAP, but there are a number of other options, such as partially-hydrolyzed baby formula (which may benefit little ones with gas or colic) and extensively hydrolyzed formula (which might be better for little ones with a milk protein allergy), as well as a few organic options. The FDA also now permits goat’s milk-based formulas, which some parents feel is better tolerated by their babies than cow’s milk or soy protein (also this isn’t yet certain, says the AAP).
  • Ingredients: Although most infant formulas are basically the same, experts say, some varieties contain additional ingredients that may be beneficial for baby or target different concerns, such as prebiotics or probiotics to support immune health. Most infant formulas are made from non-genetically modified ingredients, and the AAP recommends that any babies who are not breastfed be given a formula that is iron-fortified. You’ll also find docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and arachidonic acid (ARA) in many formulas, which are both fatty acids that may help the development of baby’s brain and eyes.
  • Availability: Many parents who experienced the formula shortage know how important it is to choose a formula that is readily available. If this is a priority for you, you may want to opt for a formula that is sold at multiple major retailers. There are some formulas that are only available online, which is more convenient for some who prefer to have formula delivered on a subscription basis. Before choosing a formula, you should decide on what method of purchase works best for you.

FAQs

In general, the pediatricians we spoke to do not recommend a specific formula brand. Instead, they recommend formulas that are easy for parents to get and in their price range, as well as well-tolerated by their baby.

“Full-term healthy children can be started on any formula that parents prefer,” says Micah Resnick, M.D., F.A.A.P., a board-certified pediatrician in Cincinnati, Ohio, with TriHealth and member of the What to Expect Medical Review Board. “Often the best formula is really whatever is available.”

Within the What to Expect community, the two formula brands that are most often recommended are Enfamil and Similac. Both offer numerous different types of formulas and are typically readily available in a majority of major retailers, both in person and online. However, just because these are the two most popular formula brands, it doesn’t mean that they’re what’s best for your baby. You may need a special type of formula for your child or prefer an organic brand, for instance.

First, you’ll want to consider the type of formula that your baby needs. Most infants drink a cow’s milk-based baby formulas that have been modified to be more digestible and safe for little ones. This is the most common type of baby formula, according to the AAP.

However, there are other types too: Partially hydrolyzed baby formulas have been partially digested, which can help babies who deal with colic or gas. Extensively hydrolyzed baby formula, also called predigested formula, contains broken-down milk proteins, making them easier for babies to digest; these are well-tolerated by most babies who are allergic to cow’s milk. Soy-based formula may be an option for your baby if she is intolerant to galactose, but this condition is very rare, so only make this switch under your pediatrician’s guidance. And some babies may require special formulas, such as preemies or babies with specific diseases.

In addition to type, you can also review a formula’s ingredients. However, all infant formulas marketed in the U.S. must meet strict nutrition guidelines from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), so while every formula is unique, you can rest easy knowing all the choices on the shelf are regulated. 

“I always describe the different formulas kind of like Coke and Pepsi: They're pretty much the same, but a little different,” says Dr. Feeley.

Dr. Abelowitz agrees. “We always tell parents that, same as different Tylenols and Motrins and brands, when you have dozens, or these days, maybe even hundreds of different types of options, there almost isn't one that's superior to the other,” he says.

In addition to all the ingredients the FDA requires in a baby formula, several formulas on the market also contain a few extra ingredients that may help your infant grow and develop, like DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) and ARA (arachidonic acid).

You may also find that some formulas include prebiotics or probiotics, which are designed to support immune health. (A common example you’ll probably see on formula labels is 2'-FL HMO, aka 2′-fucosyllactose human milk oligosaccharides, which are found in breast milk.) While these generally don’t have much evidence to support their use, they’re also not thought to hurt, Dr. Feeley says. “This is part of formulas trying to mimic human milk as much as possible,” she explains.

Organic baby formulas are similar to standard milk-based formulas, but are generally produced with organic ingredients. “It's really the same as the families that choose to have organic foods and fruits and vegetables. It's really a personal choice,” says Dr. Feeley.

Organic formulas are often higher in cost than non-organic formulas though, notes Dr. Abelowitz, so if the bigger price tag sounds inhibiting, don’t stress. “When you really study the outcomes of those children that were [organic versus non-organic], both short and long term, the benefits are quite slim,” he says. “They're still there; they're quite slim — slim enough for us to say if economy or finances is a factor, then it doesn't justify doing it.”

As supply chain issues continue to reverberate across the country, it can understandably feel worrisome to find your go-to formula missing from the shelves. If you find yourself in this situation, Dr. Abelowitz says parents should reach out to their pediatricians to see what the best, most compatible formula is to buy instead.

Generally speaking, one good rule of thumb is to stick to the same type of formula. “If they were on a cow's milk-based regular formula, nothing special about it, then try another brand's cow's milk-based, nothing-special-about-it formula,” explains Dr. Feeley. “If they were on a partially broken down formula (what we call partially hydrolyzed) like an Enfamil Gentlease and they're out of it, but they have the Similac Pro Total Comfort, which is also partially hydrolyzed, then go with that. If they're out of Nutramigen (which is the fully hydrolyzed Enfamil one) but they have Alimentum, which is Similac’s version of the fully hydrolyzed one, then switch to that.”

You may have heard rumors that European baby formulas are made with higher-quality ingredients that make them better for infants. However, experts stress that imported formulas ordered online from other countries are not always reviewed by the FDA. Imported formulas purchased online may not meet U.S. standards for quality, nutrition, and packaging, and they may have been stored improperly during shipping, which could up the risk of contamination.

While “the basic structure and breakdowns [of U.S. and European formulas] are very, very similar,” says Dr. Abelowitz, formulas in Europe are regulated differently than they are in the U.S. Because the European equivalent of the FDA has different requirements for formula than the U.S does, European formulas are often marketed as having ‘higher standards’ than U.S. formulas, even though that’s not true, explains Dr. Feeley. While the regulations are different, one isn’t better than the other.

There are also serious drawbacks to consider when buying imported baby formula, points out Dr. Abelowitz. “The biggest thing we're seeing at times [is] the confusion in dosages and how to prepare,” thanks to language translation issues or uncertainties with the way instructions are laid out. “There can be some dangerous situations of kids getting the wrong concentration,” he says.

However, during the height of the formula shortage, the FDA announced regulatory changes allowing for certain European formulas to be imported and made available for purchase in the U.S. As a result, you can now find certain European brands available for purchase from U.S. retailers, and these have been produced and stored safely and confirmed to provide adequate nutrition. 

Still, many experts agree that there’s no evidence that European baby formulas are any better for babies than the options manufactured here in the U.S., so you shouldn’t feel that you have to seek out European brands for your child’s health.