With more options on the shelves, shopping for formula can be overwhelming. To help you choose, here’s our take on the best baby formulas.
A note about the baby formula shortages
While the baby formula shortages in the United States that resulted from safety recalls have calmed down, give your pediatrician’s office a call if you’re having difficulty finding one. They may have sample cans available or advise you on the closest match to your baby’s formula.
Other resources may include your local WIC office (a federal assistance nutrition program for women, infants, and children), social media infant feeding groups, or large online grocery retailers.
The
A quick look at the best baby formulas
- Best baby formula overall: Bobbie Organic Infant Formula | Skip to review
- Best name brand: Similac 360 Total Care Infant Formula | Skip to review
- Best for gas: Enfamil Gentlease Infant Formula | Skip to review
- Best for preemies: Similac NeoSure Infant Formula | Skip to review
- Best for food allergies: Enfamil Nutramigen with Enflora LGG Infant Formula | Skip to review
- Best budget baby formula: Kirkland Signature ProCare Baby Formula | Skip to review
- Best goat milk formula: Kendamil Goat Milk Infant Formula | Skip to review
- Best plant-based baby formula: Gerber Good Start Soy Powder Infant Formula | Skip to review
There is no one brand or type of formula universally best for all babies. In fact, 2009 American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) and AAP guidelines state that infant formulas are “nutritionally interchangeable.”
However, that doesn’t mean that choosing a baby formula is straightforward.
In fact, figuring out which formula to buy can be confusing, and it’ll likely take some trial and error to figure out which option works best for your baby and budget.
Speak with your pediatrician if you have concerns about your baby’s nutrition or digestion or for a recommendation based on their individual needs.
How we chose
The baby formulas on this list are considered the “best” because they earn high marks from parents and doctors for their ease of use, store availability, overall value, and ingredient quality, and for relieving digestive issues.
We also ran our list by registered dietitians and talked with parents about their experiences with these specific brands of baby formula.
To help sift through what actually matters when choosing a formula — spoiler, the best formula is the one your baby tolerates and that you can afford — we consulted baby feeding coach Erin Moore, RN, CPNP, CLC.
Keep reading to see our picks of the eight best baby formulas, along with tips for choosing and using baby formula.
Disclaimer: All the formulas tested on this list, except Bobbie, were purchased independently. While Bobbie provided formula for free, our opinions are ours alone and have not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by the brand.
Jargon buster
Here are a few common terms you might run into when shopping for baby formula:
- Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA): This is a type of omega-3 fatty acid that plays a role in
brain development . However, keep in mind that there issome conflicting research about how much DHA is actually beneficial for babies. - Arachidonic acid (ARA): ARA is an omega-6 fatty acid found in breast milk, which is
required for the development of the nervous system. - Milk fat globule membrane (MFGM): This is a three-layered membrane found in breast milk that
has been shown to support brain development. - Lactoferrin: This is a specific protein found in breast milk and added to some types of formula, which
might offer some immune-boosting benefits. - Lutein: This is an antioxidant that’s found in breast milk and is important for
brain and eye development . - Hydrolyzed: Proteins that have been hydrolyzed have been broken down, making them smaller and more comparable in size to the proteins in breast milk. Proteins can be either partially or fully hydrolyzed.
- Hypoallergenic: Formulas labeled as hypoallergenic typically contain hydrolyzed proteins, which are easier to digest and less likely to cause an allergic reaction.
- Organic: Organic formulas are made without prohibited synthetic pesticides and fertilizers and are free of artificial flavors and colors, growth hormones, preservatives, and other additives.
- Human milk oligosaccharides (HMO):
HMOs are prebiotics found naturally in breastmilk that play an important role in the development of a baby’s immune system and gut health.
Healthline Parenthood’s picks for the best baby formulas
Pricing guide
We based our pricing guide on ounces (oz) in the container before mixing.
- $ = under $1 per oz
- $$ = $1–$2 per oz
- $$$ = over $2 per oz
Best baby formula overall
Bobbie Organic Infant Formula
Price: $$
Why we love it: We chose this formula as our top pick because it has high quality ingredients, meets nutritional requirements for infant development, is available in store at Target and online, and has a high customer satisfaction rate.
Parent’s review: Our director of social media used Bobbie with her baby and said: “Bobbie has been a great solution for my family. My baby took to the formula with no issues and after using it exclusively for 1 week, I noticed far less spit-up when burping after feedings. I love that the formula is available via subscription.
“As a busy working mom, it’s easy to lose track of shopping list priorities until it’s too late, and with the subscription, I never have to worry about not having formula.”
Other options: ByHeart is another great alternative that is also made with grass-fed, organic whole milk. Like Bobbie, ByHeart offers convenient subscription plans delivered directly to your door, but at a slightly lower price per serving.
Pros
- contains fatty acids and prebiotics to support baby’s immune system, just like standard formulas
- relatively affordable organic formula
- better taste than many formulas
- meets U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and European Union (EU) organic requirements
- partially hydrolyzed version available for sensitive tummies
- subscription service available
- available in store at Target
- free of palm oil, corn syrup, soy, and gluten
- also available in a partially hydrolyze gentle formulation for sensitive tummies
Cons
- may not be suitable for babies with a true cow’s milk protein allergy
- not available in as many brick-and-mortar retailers as other formulas
Best name-brand baby formula
Similac 360 Total Care Infant Formula
Price: $$
Why we love it: This formula is often recommended by pediatricians, is a top pick for supplementing breastfed babies, and is highly rated by parents.
It includes a blend of DHA, lutein, and vitamin E — all nutrients found in breast milk.
It also contains five human milk oligosaccharides (HMO) prebiotics, which is why the company claims it is more similar to breast milk than other formulas.
Other options: Similac 360 Sensitive, with partially hydrolyzed proteins for easier digestion, is available for babies with more sensitive tummies.
Pros
- contains DHA, lutein, and vitamin E
- contains five HMO prebiotics
- gentle formula with a nutritional profile similar to breast milk
Cons
- has not been scientifically proven that this formula is better than other infant formulas
- contains larger cow’s milk proteins, which some babies may have trouble digesting
Best baby formula for gas
Enfamil Gentlease Infant Formula
Price: $$
Why we love it: If you’re looking for a formula that’s easier for your baby to digest, this is one option that might work.
Enfamil claims that in a 2008 clinical trial, this partially hydrolyzed formula reduced gas and associated fussiness and crying in 1 day.
Parent’s review: Healthline editor Ren Dias shared that she initially tried Kendamil Infant Formula, but found that it was too bubbly and gave her daughter gas pains.
Her pediatrician gave her a free sample of Enfamil Gentlease, which ended up being a better fit.
According to Dias, “We like that it helps prevent gas, is smooth and easy to mix, is widely available (I can get it at Target, Costco, or even my local grocery store), and often has coupons and rewards.
“However, the biggest downside is that it made our baby constipated. We have to mix each bottle with a scoop of Enfamil Reguline, meaning we spend more on formula. It’s easier now that our baby can have solids. We can give her pears, peaches, and prunes to ease constipation,” explained Dias.
Parent tip: “It is very sticky, so I suggest keeping the scoop outside the container (otherwise, the formula powder clings to the scoop, and you end up with formula all over your fingers). It’s easier to mix if you put the water in first,” shared Dias.
Pros
- partially hydrolyzed proteins may be easier for many babies to digest, reducing gas and fussiness
- contains DHA, choline, and prebiotics to support baby’s brain and immune system
- contains some ingredients similar to those found in breast milk that aren’t always in other formulas, such as HMOs and MFGM
- very positive parent reviews and some support from clinical research
- widely available in stores and online
Cons
- contains milk and soy proteins, so it may not be suitable for infants with these allergies
- may leave oily residue in bottles
- may contribute to constipation in some babies
Best baby formula for preemies
Similac NeoSure Infant Formula
Price: $$
Why we love it: This formula comes from a leading formula brand and provides an assortment of essential nutrients to support growth and development of preemies.
Specifically, the enriched formula aims to help premature babies “catch up” in growth better than they might with standard term formulas.
Just be sure to talk with your doctor about whether to use formula with extra calories and how long to continue with it, as some doctors recommend switching formulas after a few months.
Specialty formulas such as this one are especially important to use under medical supervision. It’s also important to follow the formula preparation instructions exactly to reduce the risk of infection from Cronobacter sakazakii.
Other options: The
Pros
- higher calories and nutrient enrichment may be beneficial for preterm infants
- enriched formula may help preemies “catch up” on their growth curve
- contains DHA and lutein for brain and eye health
Cons
- may cause digestive issues, like constipation or gas
- must be used under medical supervision
- not as widely available as standard infant formulas
- powdered formulas could be more prone to contamination
Best baby formula for food allergies
Enfamil Nutramigen with Enflora LGG Infant Formula
Price: $$$
Why we love it: This formula is a great hypoallergenic option for babies who are unable to tolerate cow’s milk or soy. Plus, it’s backed by many positive reviews from parents.
According to Enfamil, this formula reduced crying in 90% of babies within 48 hours. The brand claims the formula may reduce future allergy issues.
Anecdotal reports suggest many parents saw improvements in their baby’s eczema, colicky crying, and runny stools after switching to this formula.
Other options: You can find Enfamil Nutramigen in a liquid concentrate form. This means that you’ll mix the liquid with water for bottles instead of using powder. Some parents find this method more convenient.
Pros
- hydrolyzed protein is much smaller and easier to digest, as it’s a more similar size to breast milk proteins
- broken down proteins won’t trigger an allergic reaction in babies with a cow’s milk protein or soy protein allergy
- may provide significant relief of colic or allergy symptoms
- contains DHA for brain development
- contains Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG), a probiotic that
could help accelerate tolerance to cow’s milk and improve digestive disorders in those with a cow’s milk allergy - free of lactose and sucrose
Cons
- unpleasant taste and smell
- quite expensive
Best budget baby formula
Kirkland Signature ProCare Baby Formula
Price: $
Why we love it: Your baby drinks a ton of formula in their first year, and many formulas are quite pricey. Fortunately, this budget-friendly formula from Costco provides the same nutrition and safety at a fraction of the cost.
Plus, it comes packaged in two 42-oz containers, so you don’t have to worry about restocking quite as often.
Other options: If you prefer not to buy a Costco membership, there are other great picks on our list, many of which have coupons available online or through your pediatrician.
Pros
- ingredient profile is similar to brand name competitors, like Similac ProAdvance and Enfamil NeuroPro
- includes DHA, lutein, vitamin E, and choline
- easy to mix
- well tolerated by babies
- may be more affordable than many comparable formulas
- comes in a value-size two-pack, so you won’t have to replace as often
- widely available either in store or online from Costco
Cons
- some parents noticed clumps even after mixing
- Costco membership required to purchase
Best goat milk formula
Kendamil Goat Milk Infant Formula
Price: $$
Why we love it: For some babies, a goat milk formula might be more gentle on the stomach and easier to digest, and this formula from Kendamil is a good option.
In addition to being free of soy, palm oil, and corn syrups, it also boasts an impressive array of nutrients designed to support growth and development, including vitamin D, naturally occurring MFGM, prebiotics, and plant-based DHA and ARA derived from marine algae.
Parent’s review: Healthline Nutrition editor and registered dietitian Kelli McGrane shared that she tried this formula with her second baby, who seemed extra irritable after drinking a bottle of pumped milk or Bobbie Original. After switching to Bobbie Gentle and still not seeing any relief, she decided to try Kendamil Goat based on positive reviews from other moms.
According to McGrane, “This formula was honestly such a lifesaver. Within 1–2 weeks after making the switch, I noticed a significant improvement in his fussiness and reflux after feeds.
“In addition to liking the formulation and ingredient list, I like that I can pick it up during my regular Target run. I also appreciate that it comes in a larger container with an inner shelf for leveling out each scoop. The shelf also functions as a place to rest the scoop when the container is closed, reducing the amount of contact between my fingers and the powder.
“Mixing the bottles is a breeze, and, most importantly, my son loves it. He’s been on the formula for over 5 months now, and I plan on continuing with it until he’s 1 year.”
Other options: If you’re having trouble finding Kendamil Goat, Aussie Bubs is another goat milk formula made with a similar set of ingredients at a comparable price point.
Pros
- provides prebiotics, MFGM, and essential nutrients
- might be easier to digest for some babies
- made from whole goat’s milk and less vegetable oils
- free of soy, palm oil, corn syrup, and additives
- rich and creamy texture
- easy to mix
- available online and at Target
Cons
- not suitable for those with an allergy to cow’s milk
- some parents report worsened digestive issues
- not as widely available as other formulas
- no subscription option from Kendamil
Best plant-based baby formula
Gerber Good Start Soy Powder Infant Formula
Price: $$
Why we love it: This soy-based formula is free of lactose and cow’s milk protein, which may make it easier to digest for babies with certain health conditions.
It’s also highly rated by parents and offers other nutrients that are important for your baby’s development, like iron, vitamin D, calcium, and DHA.
Parent’s review: Healthline Media staff member Rochelle O. shared that she chose Gerber Good Start Gentle Soy because, “I wanted it to be as close to breast milk as possible, [and] I also wanted a formula that was gentle on my baby’s tummy.”
She noted that it is a light powder that us easy to mix and was “overall a good fit for our family.”
Other options: Enfamil Simply Plant-Based offers a very similar formulation to Gerber Good Start. While it tends to be a little more expensive than Gerber Good Start, it may be easier to find online and in big chain stores like Target.
Pros
- plant-based soy formula
- milk- and lactose-free
- relatively affordable
- contains added calcium and other nutrients, like DHA and vitamin D
Cons
- many babies who are allergic to cow’s milk protein are also allergic to soy protein
- some parents found this worsened digestive issues
- some parents reported this formula is difficult to mix
- can be difficult to find in stores
Comparing baby formulas
| Products | Price | Pros |
|---|---|---|
| Bobbie Organic Infant Formula | $$ | organic ingredients meeting both USDA and EU requirements |
| Similac 360 Care Non-GMO Infant Formula | $$ | contains higher concentration of prebiotics, which breast milk also has |
| Enfamil Gentlease Infant Formula | $$ | smaller proteins may be easier for some babies to digest; prebiotics may promote gut health; contains breast milk-imitating ingredients |
| Similac NeoSure Infant Formula | $$ | more calories per oz to help preemies grow |
| Enfamil Nutramigen with Enflora LGG Infant Formula | $$$ | completely broken down proteins can be digested by babies with cow’s milk allergy (or other allergies) to relieve bloody stools and crying |
| Kirkland Signature ProCare | $ | a very similar ingredient profile to more expensive formulas |
| Kendamil Goat Milk Formula | $$ | made from whole goat’s milk, which might be easier to digest for some babies |
| Gerber Good Start Soy Powder Infant Formula | $ | may be a good source of protein for babies who can’t tolerate cow’s milk |
Nutrient requirements for formulas sold in the United States
In the United States, infant formulas are required to meet
According to Moore, every ingredient is included for a reason, and all formulas produced in the United States have been reviewed by the FDA and proven to support infant growth and development.
Specifically, all baby formulas must include protein, fat, carbohydrates, and FDA required amounts of vitamins and minerals. Though, formulas can vary based on the type and size of protein, the type of fat, the type of carbohydrate, and possibly extra ingredients, such as HMOs and DHA.
Keep in mind that these additional ingredients also often come with a higher price tag. Determining which ingredients are worth the extra cost is a personal decision for each family, according to Moore.
So what should you be looking for in infant formula?
When shopping for baby formula, Moore recommends considering your baby’s needs and which features are most important for your family. Because some babies may do great with one brand or type of formula over others, it all comes down to finding what settles best with your baby.
“The best formula is the one your baby tolerates the best and that you feel good about.”
— Baby feeding coach Erin Moore, RN, CPNP, CLC.
Here are some things to look for when you’re choosing a formula:
- The ingredients list: As noted above, baby formulas must meet FDA nutritional standards. However, it’s worth talking with your pediatrician about whether additional ingredients, like DHA, would be beneficial for your baby.
- Iron: Unless your doctor tells you otherwise, choose a brand that contains iron (most do) to help prevent iron deficiency anemia.
- Type of carbohydrate: The main types are lactose (the sugar found in milk, including human breast milk), sucrose (table sugar), and glucose (corn syrup, brown rice syrup, glucose syrup, and maltodextrin).
- Type of protein: Most formulas are made from cow’s milk, but you can also find soy and protein hydrolysate formulas for babies with certain intolerances or allergies. Goat’s milk baby formula is another option.
- Size of the protein: Standard formulas made with cow’s milk or soy milk have big proteins that may be harder for many babies to digest. Partially and fully hydrolyzed protein formulas are closer to the size of proteins found in breast milk, and these formulas are often labeled “gentle” or “hypoallergenic.” Fully hydrolyzed protein formulas are usually only necessary in the case of severe allergies or digestive issues, so check with your doctor before going this route.
- Formula form: Baby formulas are available in powdered, liquid concentrate, and read-to-eat forms. Powdered and liquid concentrate must be mixed with water before feeding to your baby. Ready-to-eat bottles contain liquid formula that’s already diluted with the appropriate amount of water.
- A broken seal: If the seal on the container is broken or missing, do not purchase it — or be sure to return it if you have — as it could be contaminated.
- Product recalls: Periodically check for
product recalls before purchasing formula. - Expiration date: Check the container before purchasing (and before using if you have a stash built up).
- Preparation instructions: Double-check the preparation instructions, especially if you’re switching to a new formula. This is particularly important if you’re switching to a European formula, as the units of measurement may be different.
Always check with your pediatrician if there’s a formula you want to use that seems niche or off-market, has significantly fewer nutrients (check the nutrition info label), or you have any concerns about choosing a formula.
An expert’s take on soy and goat baby formulas
“Babies from vegan families may choose soy formula as a plant-based cow milk formula alternative,” said Moore.
However, keep in mind that soy-based formulas may not be the magic answer for all babies and are also not necessarily easier for babies to digest. “Families with babies who have cow milk protein allergy may tolerate soy formula; however, some babies react to both soy protein and cow milk protein,” said Moore.
As for goat milk formulas, Moore notes that while some families find it easier to digest, randomized-controlled studies haven’t found that goat’s milk formula causes fewer digestive issues. It’s also not suitable for those with an allergy to cow’s milk.
How to use baby formula
No matter which you choose, it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions on how to mix the formula. While some formulas require you to mix each scoop with 2 oz of water, some others might need just 1 oz of water for each scoop.
Diluting the formula with too much water can decrease the nutritional value, and it can lead to electrolyte imbalances that can cause seizures. Meanwhile, adding too little water can affect a baby’s digestion.
Always use the measuring scoop that comes with your formula. The AAP recommends cooling boiled water for 5 minutes before mixing with formula and then allowing the bottle to cool to room temperature before serving.
In addition to destroying harmful microbes found in water, using boiled water can also
- Wash your hands with soap and water before grabbing bottles and preparing formula: While you’re at it, make sure your bottles are clean and nipples intact.
- Check the expiration date on your formula container: Examine the container for breaks in the seal, rust marks, leaks, and other signs that the formula is compromised.
- Use water from a safe source: You might consider boiling water for a minute and cooling before mixing bottles as well. If you don’t think your tap water is safe to use, consider purchasing bottled water.
- Measure out the water first before adding powder or liquid concentrate: It’s very important to follow the directions on the box for how much water you’ll use. Diluting formula with too much water or too little water can lead to serious digestion issues.
- Warm bottles by putting them in a pot of warm water on the stove or use a bottle warmer: Heat to body temperature. Never use a microwave to heat formula.
- Use prepared formula within 2 hours, or store it in the refrigerator for 24 hours: Discard any formula your baby doesn’t finish after a feeding.
- Feed your baby in an upright position and burp often to help relieve symptoms of colic: You may also want to look into curved bottles or those that use collapsible bags to reduce air intake.
Note that if your baby is under 3 months old, was born prematurely, or has other health issues, your doctor may have additional guidelines for preparing formula.
Breast milk vs. formula
Breast milk is the ideal food for babies. Both the AAP and the World Health Organization (WHO) recommend breastfeeding exclusively for the
That said, not all parents breastfeed, whether by necessity or choice — and it is a personal decision. For more on the subject, read the following:
Frequently asked questions about baby formula
There’s no solid evidence to suggest that a certain formula is a solution to colic.
Cow’s milk protein allergy is the most common allergy in infants and children — affecting approximately 0.5–3% worldwide, according to a 2019 study, or 1.9–4.9%, according to a 2018 study. This can contribute to colicky behavior. Babies with a cow’s milk protein allergy may experience runny or bloody stools or chronic nasal congestion.
Be sure to speak with your pediatrician if you think your baby has colic.
A hydrolyzed (hypoallergenic) formula may give them relief. EHF (extensively hydrolyzed) formulas are suitable for many babies with allergies and not as expensive as amino acid formula.
For babies with severe or multiple allergies, an amino acid formula, such as Enfamil Nutramigen, may be the best option.
Colic tends to stop between a baby’s first 4 or 6 months. Talk with your pediatrician if you’re concerned about your baby’s crying or how they’re tolerating their formula.
Formula-fed babies have higher rates of reflux than breastfed babies, with issues typically peaking around the 4-month mark. There are formulas, such as the Enfamil A.R. Infant Formula, that are thickened by rice. They may help decrease the frequency of spit-ups, but they should be used under the guidance of your pediatrician.
Try giving your baby one type of formula for 1–2 weeks before switching. While it’s safe to switch between brands and types, you may not want to switch frequently.
If there’s an allergy or an adverse reaction, it can be difficult to identify the source if they were used too close together.
According to Moore, “Formula is designed to mimic the composition of breast milk. Formula companies may advertise their formulas as the ‘closest to breast milk’ if it contains intact milk proteins, lactose as the carbohydrate source, a fat blend with a similar profile to breast milk, and added vitamins and minerals.”
Some options, like Enfamil Gentlease, contain partially hydrolyzed proteins, so the proteins are smaller and more similar to those found in human milk. It also contains MFGMs, which are only found in human breast milk.
Another option to consider is Similac 360, which contains HMOs similar to those in human milk. This formula does contain cow’s milk proteins that are not broken down, so they are still quite a bit larger than the proteins found in human milk.
No formula can completely mimic human breast milk. However, scientific and nutritional advances have come a long way in recent years, and there are some great options.
You can prepare formula in advance. If left at room temperature, formula should be used within 2 hours of preparation and within 1 hour of when you start feeding your baby. Meanwhile, bottles stored in the fridge should be used within 24 hours.
Some people prefer using the pitcher method to prepare a larger batch of formula at once. With this method, you can mix formula with water in a large pitcher, which can be stored in the refrigerator directly or divided into individual bottles and refrigerated for up to 24 hours.
The takeaway
There are many formula options available. Breast milk is recommended as the first choice for a baby’s optimal health, but all formulas will meet the basic nutritional needs of your baby. The key is preparing them safely.
Still don’t know which formula to choose? Ask your pediatrician. They may be able to point you in the right direction based on your baby’s health history or your personal preferences. Same goes with switching formula brands or types.
Note that your pediatrician’s office may have coupons or free samples so you can try before you buy.
