HiPP Formula Stage 3 

HiPP Stage 3 Differences Explained 

We offer a variety of Stage 3 formulas. This section will help you understand the differences between them, as well as how they compare to previous formula stages, to assist you in finding the best match for your little one. 

HiPP Stage 3 (10+ Months)

This brand offers two separate stages of follow-on formula: namely HiPP Stage 2 for babies 6+ months, and Stage 3 for babies from 10+ months. Stage 3 follow-on formula is only available in the German and Dutch formula lines. Both follow-on formulas are designed to be included as part of a mixed diet that includes milk feeds and solid foods. 

Follow-on milk delivers higher amounts of select nutrients identified as essential for weaning-age babies. For example, this milk contains more iron than HiPP Stage 1 because a baby’s natural iron stores start to deplete over time. This switching to follow-on formula can provide greater assurance that your little one’s iron requirements are going to be met. Follow-on milk also has more vitamin D and calcium than infant formula. 

HiPP Stage 3 (12+ Months)

Growing Up Milk is a Stage 3 formula from the UK range, designed specifically for toddlers from 12 months onwards. At this point in development, your child's primary source of sustenance should be solid foods, but toddler milk can serve as a supplement to improve your little one’s nutrient supply and ultimately support a balanced diet. 

This HiPP Stage 3 formula offers specific adapted nutrients, including elevated quantities of vitamins C and D, iodine, and calcium. It’s also adjusted with age-appropriately reduced levels of protein and saturated fatty acids compared to earlier stages. 

As an optional step, some families choose to use toddler formula, while others prefer plain whole milk instead. If you’re considering more toddler milk options, we have several HiPP Stage 4 formulas to choose from. Just remember to consult your pediatrician before incorporating toddler formula into your child’s diet. 

HiPP Stage 3 (0-12 Months)

HiPP Comfort and Anti-Reflux are specialty formulas designed for use throughout the entire first year of feeding, and as such, come in a single-stage suitable from 0-12 months. These formulas can be fed from birth to six months for exclusive feeding, and after 6 months as part of a mixed diet. Comfort and Anti-Reflux milk belong to the German and UK formula lines. Importantly, these special formulas should only be used on the advice of your baby’s doctor and under medical supervision.

Nutritional Benefits of Stage 3 Formula

HiPP formula Stage 3 is adapted to best serve the needs of little ones from the 10th or 12th month, depending on the specific product. In this section, we will discuss some of the key nutritional adjustments made in the composition of the milk at this stage.

Stage 3 Formula Protein Composition

Compared to infant formula, Stage 3 follow-on milk offers a higher amount of protein to meet the increased needs of older babies. The protein ratio is adapted to be casein-dominant rather than whey-dominant, which also improves the milk’s satiety.

In contrast, the amount of protein in HiPP Stage 3 toddler formula is reduced to protect against the increased risk of obesity associated with high protein consumption in early childhood. 

The Comfort and Anti-Reflux formulas are also designed to offer a suitably low protein content. However, HiPP Comfort is unique in that it contains extensively hydrolyzed whey proteins that are broken down to promote easier digestion.

Carbohydrates for Energy in Stage 3 Milk 

Most Stage 3 formulas from the brand feature lactose as the sole source of carbohydrates, offering a closer match to the composition of breast milk. 

However, HiPP Combiotic Stage 3 German includes starch alongside lactose to make the milk more creamy, and support increased energy needs as little ones become more independent and active. 

Additionally, HiPP Comfort milk includes lactose partially replaced by starch and maltodextrin to achieve a lactose-reduced recipe designed to soothe babies with lactose-related 3-month colic.

Iron, Calcium, and Other Micronutrients in Stage 3 Formula 

HiPP's Stage 3 formula delivers extra nutrients tailored to older babies and toddlers. Notably, you can expect higher amounts of iron, calcium, vitamin D, and iodine in Stage 3 milks, which have the following benefits: 

Iron — Plays a vital role in brain and immune development as well as red blood cell formation. As infants and toddlers can easily become iron-deficient, using a formula enriched with this mineral is incredibly beneficial.

Calcium —  Supports the development of healthy teeth and bones, making it especially important during periods of rapid growth. Sufficient calcium intake can also help avoid having weak bones and fractures in the future. 

Vitamin D — This "sunshine vitamin" is added to aid in calcium absorption and support immunity.

Iodine — Supports thyroid function and brain and nervous system development. 

HiPP Organic Formula Stage 3: Supporting Nutritional Needs

This premium brand is dedicated to nourishing your baby from birth and beyond, and is well-known for their diverse selection of organic formulas. Let's take a peek at the key differences between their Dutch, German, and UK ranges. 

HiPP Stage 3 Formula Differences: Dutch, German, and UK

This brand offers three unique formula lines: HiPP German, HiPP Dutch, and HiPP UK, designed to meet country-specific preferences and comply with local regulations across Europe. Consequently, the composition and age suitability of their stage 3 formulas vary between products.

HiPP Dutch Stage 3— This certified organic follow-on formula is suitable from 10 months and above. It features gentle lactose-only carbohydrates to support easy digestion and is enhanced with a combination of prebiotics and probiotics to promote gut and immune health. 

HiPP German Stage 3 — This follow-on milk is designed for babies from 10+ months. Its certified organic recipe combines cow’s milk, lactose, starch, prebiotics, and probiotics to nourish little ones. It offers a slightly more creamy and filling formulation compared to the other country versions. 

HiPP UK Stage 3 — This organic cow’s milk formula is made for toddlers 12 months and up and features a slightly simpler recipe compared to the brand’s other offerings. All carbohydrates are sourced from lactose, and the recipe includes prebiotics but not probiotics. 

Special Formulas From HiPP

If your baby requires more tailored nutritional support, HiPP has you covered. They offer a range of specialized formulas thoughtfully made to address some of the most common digestive issues in infants from 0 to 12 months. While these formulas are not organic, they are proudly non-GMO and are produced according to strict European infant formula guidelines.

HiPP Comfort

HiPP Comfort formula helps manage flatulence, constipation, and colic. Its gentle recipe combines extensively hydrolyzed whey proteins, lactose-reduced carbohydrates, beta-palmitate fats, and prebiotics to reduce crying and promote more regular bowel movements. It's offered in both German and UK variations, with the main difference being that the German version includes probiotics, whereas the UK version only has prebiotics. 

HiPP Anti-Reflux

HiPP Anti Reflux formula is designed to reduce excessive spitting up and belching in babies. The milk is combined with locust bean gum, a natural thickening agent that increases the viscosity of the liquid to help keep it on your little one’s tummy. Keep in mind that most babies will have outgrown their reflux issues once their digestive systems have matured around 12+ months. 

This special formula is available in German and UK versions with virtually the same recipe but different packaging. The UK version is offered in a larger container, and all instructions and labels are provided in English rather than German. 

Why Choose Stage 3 HiPP Formula? 

Your child's nutritional needs are constantly changing, which is why HiPP baby formula is designed to evolve alongside your little one. From their innovative recipes to their stringent production process, with Stage 3, you can rest assured that your child is getting top-notch nutrition backed by strict EU guidelines.