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The Best Baby Formula for Your Child’s Needs

Shopping for baby formula can be overwhelming. Here’s what to know.
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By Joanne Chen, Contributing Writer
Updated November 6, 2023
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Keeping baby happy, healthy and nourished is top priority for new parents. And in an ideal world, all parents would be able to breastfeed their little one up to baby’s first birthday, as recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). In this ideal world, parents would also have a posse of helpers to fetch groceries and take care of the chores, money would grow on trees and our breasts would spout milk like fountains. But in the real world, that’s just not the case.

Yes, the nutrient-rich contents of breast milk provides babies with exactly what they need, when they need it. But—for a variety of reasons—many parents chose to combi-feed or solely rely on baby formula to meet their infant’s nutritional needs. Baby formula is engineered to resemble the nutritional composition of breast milk, and contains an assorted array of proteins, carbohydrates, fats and vitamins. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) strictly regulates these core components, so you can rest assured baby formula is safe and nutritious.

So what are the different types of baby formula available—and when it comes down to it, is there such a thing as the best baby formula? Below find expert advice on how to find the right formula to suit your lifestyle as well as your child’s nutritional needs.

Types of Baby Formula

Baby formula comes in different consistencies, and small variations in the recipe might make a difference in special circumstances, says Bridget Young, PhD, a breast milk researcher at the University of Colorado School of Medicine in Anschutz and founder of BabyFormulaExpert.com. While there’s a wide range of baby formula brands to choose from, there are only three overall types of baby formula: powder, liquid concentrate and ready-to-feed. Keep reading to find out the pros and cons of each type of baby formula.

  • Powder baby formula. Typically sold in canisters or cartons, powdered baby formula needs to be mixed with a specific amount of water before it can be given to baby. On the plus side, it’s the least expensive of the three options. The powder also lasts a long time, as long as you don’t mix it with water. But always check the expiration date to ensure that the formula is still safe to use. On the other hand, powdered baby formula can be messy and isn’t the most convenient option for travel. With that said, some brands offer single-use travel packets, but they tend to be more expensive. In terms of preparation, it is essential that powder formula is mixed with safe drinking water. Finally, this type of formula is not recommended for premature newborns whose immune systems are still forming, since powdered food isn’t sterile.
  • Liquid concentrate baby formula. This option also requires some mixing and shaking with water but because it’s liquid you skip the scoop, which means less mess. However, it’s more expensive than powder formula. And, once opened, you need to refrigerate and use the entire container within 48 hours, which might not be realistic if you’re using formula as a supplement to breastfeeding.
  • Ready-to-feed baby formula. The name says it all: This type of baby formula is premixed; simply open, pour and feed to baby. Ready-to-feed formula comes in single-serve bottles or larger volumes that can be decanted into a baby bottle. There’s little danger of contamination and no chance of any errors in preparation. You don’t need to refrigerate unopened bottles. However, once the ready-to-feed bottle is cracked open, it needs to be finished or discarded after 48 hours of refrigeration. Keep in mind that this type comes in single-use packaging, so it’s a less sustainable option.

What To Look For in Baby Formula

Still not sure where to begin when it comes to choosing the best baby formula for your child? Ultimately, choosing the best formula is about paying close attention to how your child’s body responds to the formula you try. It’s also essential that you purchase your baby formula safely: Make sure that it’s not expired, that it’s sealed correctly and that the packaging is in good condition. Below, find expert-backed tips on the best formula for babies of all ages, needs and dietary requirements.

Best baby formula for newborns

Breast milk is especially important for brand-new babies. As Steven Abrams, MD, chair of the American Academy of Pediatrics Committee on Nutrition explains, breast milk ingredients are dynamic: They constantly change to fulfill a growing infant’s needs, from bolstering their developing immune system to building muscle strength.

Given that baby formula is a set formulation, it’s hard for it to be truly complete. Still, in a pinch, most standard formulas will work for healthy newborns, Arévalo says. The exception is very premature babies (born at 28 to 32 weeks), who would receive specific feeding recommendations from the NICU that could potentially include donor breast milk. Once baby arrives home, your doctor will recommend the appropriate feeding regimen. For older preemies (born at 32 to 37 weeks) or underweight term babies, baby formula options may open up more.

Best organic baby formula

Organic baby formula is sourced from cows raised on an organic diet (no pesticides, no antibiotics), and uses naturally derived vitamins instead of those made from petroleum. Remember though, just because it’s organic doesn’t mean it’s automatically free of other controversial ingredients, such as corn syrup, palm oil or hexane-sourced DHA and ARA. (Hexane, a byproduct of petroleum refining, doesn’t sit well with some parents, though the FDA has deemed its use as a processing agent safe.)

From a strictly scientific standpoint, it’s not certain that organic baby formula is better than conventional. What is certain is that it’s pricier and according to Arévalo “there’s no difference nutrition-wise.” Still, if your wallet can handle it—and going organic gives you peace of mind—give it a try, Young says.

Whatever you decide, remember that the best organic baby formula is one that answers the needs of your child. If you can’t find an option that checks all the boxes (for example, baby needs hydrolyzed proteins for digestive issues), then Arévalo says it’s better to go with the formulation baby requires, whether it’s organic or not. After all, the best formula for baby is one that fulfills all of their nutritional and dietary needs.

Best baby formula for breastfed babies

Many brands market particular products as supplementary formula for breastfed babies. However, Young says there’s no need to buy a special formula if you’re supplementing your breast milk with formula.

Most importantly, the best baby formula for breastfed babies is less about the product and more about the protocol. Each time you don’t feed baby from the breast, your milk ducts get the signal that there’s less demand, and produce less milk. To avoid a dip in your supply, pump when you can to make up for the missed breastfeeding session.

Best baby formula for gassy babies

“All babies have gas,” says Young and “babies eventually learn how to eliminate it themselves.” So before searching for the best formula for gassy babies, make sure your child isn’t excessively gassy for other reasons. Feed baby upright, always with their head above their tummy. Choose a bottle nipple that flows slowly and burp baby frequently. If you’re using powder formula, let the bubbles settle before the feeding starts, or try using a liquid concentrate or ready-to-feed formulation. Angled and vented bottles can also help reduce gas in infants.

In rare cases, gassy babies may be sensitive to lactose, a sugar naturally found in cow’s milk (and therefore most baby formulas). Lactose is also in breast milk, but breast milk contains other compounds that help baby digest it, explains Young. In this case, the best baby formula for gas may be a partially hydrolyzed option with little to no lactose.

That said, even a “no lactose” baby formula typically contains a smidge of this substance, so if your child is completely intolerant, talk to your pediatrician about a soy formula, adds Melanie Greifer, MD, a pediatric gastroenterologist at NYU Langone Health in New York City. However, it’s important to note that the AAP doesn’t recommend a soy formula for babies that weigh less than 3.96 pounds.

Best baby formula for constipation

It’s not easy to poop lying down, so if baby looks like they’re putting in a lot of effort, just know that it’s completely normal. However, if they’re straining for more than 10 minutes—or if they’re pooping noticeably less than before—your little one might be constipated. Other clues include fussiness, hard stools and unusually frequent spit-up.

Before you switch formulas, try to help baby poop by laying them on their back and “bicycling” their legs or giving them a warm bath. Contrary to popular belief, iron-fortified baby formula doesn’t cause constipation (and, in fact, is helpful to baby’s growth), according to the AAP.

Best baby formula for colic

A colicky baby is defined as an otherwise healthy infant under 3 months of age who cries for more than three hours a day, more than three days a week and for more than three weeks in a row for no apparent reason. Doctors aren’t sure exactly what causes colic, but it’s natural to wonder whether baby formula has something to do with it. (And yes, gastrointestinal issues could be a part of the problem.)

But before you switch your baby formula, Arévalo says to “give it at least a week or two,” and see if any tips and tricks for relieving a gassy or constipated baby help. That said, if your child is also vomiting; coughing and wheezing; has trouble breathing; breaks out in a rash; gets diarrhea and/or has itchy, watery or swollen eyes, they might be sensitive to the protein in formula or—in the case of the more severe symptoms—an all-out milk-protein allergy, says Greifer. If you suspect digestive troubles are the cause for extreme fussiness, Young advises parents to talk to a pediatrician about trying partially hydrolyzed proteins.

If a baby formula specifically designed for colic doesn’t work, you may need to try an option made with thoroughly hydrolyzed proteins. The proteins in these formulas are broken down into even smaller units so baby’s immune system won’t revolt against them. A switch to a fully hydrolyzed option shouldn’t be taken lightly though, since these types of baby formula tend to taste bitter and have an unpleasant odor, says Young. To warrant this step, baby should be diagnosed as having a full-on milk protein allergy. Keep in mind that switching to a soy-based formula wouldn’t necessarily help either, because as many as half of all infants allergic to milk protein are also allergic to soy protein.

All in all, be aware that special formulas that feature bonus ingredients, such as probiotics or DHA, are touted as offering particular benefits for baby, but experts say this is largely just marketing. “Take it with a hefty grain of salt,” says Kimberly Gronsman Lee, MD, associate professor of pediatrics at the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston. “Any infant formula that’s sold in the US should be FDA regulated and acceptable in terms of nutrition.”

The Best Baby Formulas for Your Child’s Needs

For most healthy babies, the formula that’s in the baby-care package that your hospital sends you home with will probably do just fine, says Sandra Arévalo, RDN, a spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. But when it’s time to restock, you may want to try something different. So how do you know what the best baby formula for your child will be? Start with your pediatrician. Discuss any allergies or dietary issues you might have, along with any nutritional concerns or worries about allergies for baby. From there, your pediatrician can give you guidance to help you choose the best formula for your little one. If you try a formula and baby doesn’t seem to be reacting well, contact your pediatrician to discuss what to do next. Now that you have all the facts, you’re well-equipped to pick out the best baby formula for your little one. Below, browse top-rated baby formula options for every age, need and dietary restriction.

Overall best baby formula

Enfamil Milk-Based Powder Infant Formula
Image: Target
What We Love
  • Contains DHA and choline
  • Dual prebiotics aid digestion
  • SNAP eligible
Things To Consider
  • Once prepared, use within one hour or discard

Packed with nutrients to support baby throughout their first year? Check. Dual prebiotics for easy digestion? Check. Recommended by pediatricians? Check. Enfamil’s Infant Formula has everything we’re looking for when it comes to naming the best baby formula. The gentle powder closely resembles the nutritional makeup of breast milk, containing essentials like DHA and choline. It’s also free from GMOs, added sugar, artificial growth hormones and antibiotics. You can count on this top-rated baby formula to help baby grow from their head to their toes, as well as support their immune system and cognitive development.

Quantity: 12.5 oz. | Servings per container: 20 | Age rating: 0 to 12 months

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Best formula for newborns

Kendamil Infant Formula Powder
Image: Target
What We Love
  • Made with whole milk fats
  • Contains DHA, ARA and HMOs
  • Free of palm oil, soy oil, corn syrup, gluten and GMOs
Things To Consider
  • Scoop uses metric measurements
  • Not organic

This European formula for newborns is thoughtfully made from milk sourced from grass-fed cows, resulting in a creamy taste your little one will love. It contains a blend of whole milk with a 60 percent whey and 40 percent casein protein ratio to reduce tummy discomfort after eating. Plus, it features an array of supportive nutrients, like DHA, ARA and HMOs, to promote baby’s brain, vision and immune system development.

Quantity: 28.2 oz. | Servings per container: 52 | Age rating: 0 to 12 months

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Best hypoallergenic baby formula

Nutramigen Hypoallergenic Infant Formula with Enflora LGG
Image: Walmart
What We Love
  • May reduce symptoms of colic and eczema
  • Contains DHA, ARA and choline
  • SNAP eligible
Things To Consider
  • Relatively high price point

Little ones who are sensitive to cow’s milk may benefit from a hypoallergenic baby formula instead of a typical milk-based powder. This parent-approved pick has thousands of five-star reviews—and it’s easy to see why. Packed with the good stuff (like DHA, ARA and choline), the gentle baby formula supports infants’ growth. While the hydrolyzed casein protein source reduces the risk of an immune system response in babies with milk allergies, providing relief from symptoms of colic and eczema. The result? A happier, healthier baby—and a well-rested parent.

Quantity: 12.6 oz. | Servings per container: 20 | Age rating: 0 to 12 months

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Best baby formula subscription

Organic Infant Formula
Image: Bobbie
Buying Options
Bobbie|From $93.60
What We Love
  • High level of DHA per serving
  • Certified USDA organic formula
  • Flexible subscription service
Things To Consider
  • Container doesn’t come with a scoop

With everything on your plate as a new parent, some important tasks inevitably fall through the cracks. Thankfully, this baby formula brand allows you to cross one errand off your to-do list with ease, thanks to its convenient subscription service. Simply choose the number of cans you need—and, voilà, they’ll be delivered to your doorstep each month. What’s more, this organic baby formula is made from grass-fed, pasture-raised milk and packed with plenty of nutrients like zinc, vitamin C, DHA and a healthy balance of whey and casein.

Quantity: 14.1 oz. | Servings per container: N/A | Age rating: 0 to 12 months

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Best organic baby formula

Whole Nutrition Infant Formula
Image: ByHeart
What We Love
  • Patented protein blend
  • Made with grass-fed cows milk
  • Certified organic and non-GMO
Things To Consider
  • Some parents say the formula mixture is quite frothy

On the hunt for a standout organic baby formula? Look no further than this option from ByHeart. The certified organic formula is made with grass-fed whole milk to support baby’s healthy development and growth. Better yet, ByHeart is the first US infant formula to receive a Purity Award from the Clean Label Project, meaning the ingredients list is free from pollutants and contaminants. Plus, the patented protein blend—containing alpha-lac and lactoferrin—closely mimics breast milk, so it’s super-easy to digest. And the addition of organic probiotics derived from lactose help support the growth of good bacteria in baby’s gut. It has no gluten or corn syrup or palm oil, so you can rest assured baby’s getting the very best.

Quantity: 24 oz. | Servings per container: N/A | Age rating: 0 to 12 months

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Best store brand baby formula

Parent's Choice Sensitivity Premium Baby Formula with Iron
Image: Walmart
Buying Options
Walmart|$35.48
What We Love
  • Affordable price point
  • Contains DHA and prebiotic 2'-FL HMO
  • SNAP eligible
Things To Consider
  • Corn syrup is listed as the first ingredient

Opting for a store-brand baby formula doesn’t mean your child will miss out on the essential nutrients they need. Case in point: This powder from Walmart. The baby formula is made with 99 percent less lactose than standard milk-based infant formula, so it’s gentler on your little love’s tummy. But thanks to the addition of iron and other ingredients it still offers complete nutrition for infants from birth through their first birthday. To promote healthy cognitive development, it also contains DHA, lutein and vitamin E.

Quantity: 34 oz. | Servings per container: 48.2 | Age rating: 0 to 12 months

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Best infant formula

What We Love
  • Free from palm oil and artificial growth hormones
  • Contains DHA, lutein and vitamin E
  • SNAP eligible
Things To Consider
  • Contains soy

Searching for a top-notch infant formula for baby’s first year? This powder has got you covered. The milk-based, iron-fortified blend is full of the key nutrients naturally found in breast milk, such as DHA, lutein and vitamin E. The result? An infant formula that you can count on to foster brain and eye development.

Quantity: 12.4 oz. | Servings per container: 16.3 | Age rating: 0 to 12 months

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Best goat milk baby formula

Bubs Goat Milk Infant Formula
Image: Walmart
What We Love
  • Easy to digest
  • Clean Label Project certified
  • Free from artificial colors, flavors and preservatives
Things To Consider
  • Not suitable for infants over 6-months-old

Noticed a growing trend of parents opting for goat milk formula? The AAP states that goat's milk protein supports normal growth and development in infants and may even be tolerated better by infants with allergies. Want to make the switch? Try this option from the Australian-based brand Bubs. The goat milk formula has been thoughtfully formulated with tiny tummies in mind, and naturally contains the easy-to-digest A2 casein protein as well as DHA, omegas and prebiotics.

Quantity: 28.2 oz. | Servings per container: 45 | Age rating: 0 to 6 months

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Best formula for gassy babies

Gerber Good Start SoothePro Non-GMO Powder Infant Formula
Image: Target
What We Love
  • Non-GMO
  • Contains probiotics and prebiotics to reduce colic symptoms
  • Easy to digest
Things To Consider
  • Some parents say the scoop is an awkward size
  • Contains soy

Among the best baby formulas for gassy babies, Gerber Good Start SoothePro contains 100 percent whey protein partially broken down, which is easier to digest than casein proteins. It also contains L. reuteri, a probiotic that can help with colic, according to some studies, as well as a prebiotic called Human Milk Oligosaccharides (HMO), which research has shown to support digestive health and the developing immune system.

Quantity: 19.4 oz. | Servings per container: N/A | Age rating: 0 to 12 months

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Best formula for breastfed babies

Pure Bliss by Similac Infant Formula
Image: Walmart
What We Love
  • Contains DHA and ARA
  • Milk comes from grass-fed cows
  • Non-GMO
Things To Consider
  • Formula isn’t organic
  • Contains soy

This option from Similac checks all of the boxes on our list when it comes to being the best formula to supplement breastfeeding. The milk-based powder has been thoughtfully created to match the nutrients found in breast milk and is enriched with iron. Other key ingredients include DHA and ARA, both of which support brain and eye development. Best of all? It’s free from antibiotics, palm olein oil and artificial growth hormones.

Quantity: 24.7 oz. | Servings per container: 31 | Age rating: 0 to 12 months

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Best baby formula for constipation

Earth's Best Organic Sensitive Baby Formula for Babies
Image: Amazon
What We Love
  • Reduced lactose
  • USDA-organic, non-GMO and kosher certified
  • Contains partially hydrolyzed protein and prebiotics for healthy digestion
Things To Consider
  • Contains palm oil and soy

All kids’ needs are different, of course, but this option from Earth’s Best is among the best baby formulas for constipation, according to many online reviewers. It offers up partially hydrolyzed protein to ease tummy troubles—plus, it contains 95 percent less lactose compared to other standard milk-based formulas to support healthy digestion. Other nutrient-rich ingredients that can be found in this baby formula for constipation include DHA, ARA, lutein and prebiotics.

Quantity: 32 oz. | Servings per container: 58 | Age rating: 0 to 12 months

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Best ready-to-feed baby formula

Enfamil NeuroPro Baby Formula
Image: Walmart
What We Love
  • Contains DHA and choline
  • Convenient option for travel
  • SNAP eligible
Things To Consider
  • High price point
  • Opened bottles and prepared formula can spoil quickly

Last up on our list of the best formula for babies is this ready-to-feed option by Enfamil. Backed by decades of research, NeuroPro formula contains a fat-protein blend of MFGM and Omega 3 DHA previously only found in breast milk. It’s also incredibly easy to digest and contains dual prebiotics for immune health. The best part? It comes pre-mixed and ready to serve for easy feeding sessions on the go.

Quantity: 8 fl.oz. per bottle | Servings per pack: 12 | Age rating: 0 to 12 months

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How To Find Baby Formula When Your Store Is Out

If you run out of formula and can’t find it at your regular stores, call around to pharmacies and baby supply stores in your area. These places aren’t often top-of-mind for shoppers on the hunt for formula, and they may still have some in stock. You can also ask your pediatrician if they have any samples to tide you over. If you typically receive and use WIC or SNAP benefits to purchase formula and don’t see your WIC products, contact your local food bank or women’s shelter. (Your state may also allow you to use WIC for a larger selection of products when certain formulas are out of stock.)

If you can’t find your typical brand and type of baby formula, consider switching to whatever is available. While changing brands and types of formula can be okay for some babies, others might experience discomfort as they adjust to the new formula. If you’re concerned that baby won’t handle a new formula well, or if baby has special dietary needs and you’re not sure what to get, contact your pediatrician. The AAP warns against feeding baby cow’s milk or watered-down formula, or trying to make your own homemade version of formula as a replacement, as that could be dangerous for baby’s health. (For more resources on navigating the baby formula shortage, click here.)

How We Chose the Best Baby Formula

We get it—feeding baby can feel like a minefield. Whether you’re exclusively bottle feeding baby or supplementing breast milk with formula, it can be hard to find the best fit for your family. To streamline your decision-making process, our goal is to do the bulk of the research for you, so you don’t have to spend hours scrolling through online retailers and forums. We do this by considering a list of criteria when sourcing baby formula, including age rating, ingredients list, formulation and preparation options as well as value for money. This way you can count on getting the best bang for your buck, while also having a dependable food source that will meet your child’s nutritional needs.

To decide which baby formula options are the best on the market, we leverage our familiarity with leading brands to make sure items are from reliable manufacturers. We read user reviews to get the low-down on how these products work for families, and typically don’t consider anything with less than an average four-star rating. And since many of us are also parents, we rely on our writers’ and editors’ experience using these products with their own families.

To make sure we’re highlighting products that are safe and effective, we spoke with a range of medical and nutritional experts to understand safety considerations to keep top of mind when you’re shopping. We also follow the safety recommendations of the American Academy of Pediatrics and look for certifications and seals of approval from key organizations.

Interested in learning more about our editorial process? Read about how our team develops and reviews all articles here.

Please note: The Bump and the materials and information it contains are not intended to, and do not constitute, medical or other health advice or diagnosis and should not be used as such. You should always consult with a qualified physician or health professional about your specific circumstances.

Sources

Kimberly Gronsman Lee, MD, is board-certified in pediatrics and neonatal-perinatal medicine, and is an associate professor of pediatrics at the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston. Her clinical interests lie in breastfeeding and feeding difficulties. She earned her medical degree from Wayne State University School of Medicine and her master’s degree from Harvard School of Public Health.

Bridget Young, PhD, CLC, is a breast milk researcher at the University of Colorado School of Medicine in Anschutz and has a PhD in perinatal and pediatric nutrition from Cornell University. She’s also a certified lactation consultant and the founder of BabyFormulaExpert.com.

Sandra Arévalo, MPH, RDN, CDN, CDE, is a registered dietician-nutritionist and a spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. She also serves as director of nutrition services and community outreach at Community Pediatrics, a program of Montefiore and The Children’s Health Fund.

Steven Abrams, MD, is chair of the American Academy of Pediatrics Committee on Nutrition and professor of pediatrics at the University of Texas Dell Medical School in Austin. He earned his medical degree from Ohio State University and completed a fellowship in neonatal-perinatal medicine at Baylor College of Medicine. From 2012 to 2015, he served as a member of the Dietary Advisory Committee of the US Department of Agriculture.

Melanie Greifer, MD, is a pediatric gastroenterologist at NYU Langone Health in New York City and a clinical associate professor of pediatrics at NYU Grossman School of Medicine. She earned her medical degree from SUNY Brooklyn, and completed her fellowship in gastroenterology at Weill Medical College of Cornell University.

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American Academy of Pediatrics, Is Your Drinking Water Safe?, February 2023

American Academy of Pediatrics, Choosing a Baby Formula, October 2023

American Academy of Pediatrics, Why are we seeing baby formula brands on the shelves from companies I haven’t heard of before?, October 2023

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