The brand is known for producing clean, simple, gently processed organic formula for a natural and balanced diet while remaining committed to environmental sustainability. The company cares about protecting children's futures which is why the company offsets the CO2e emissions that occur during formula production. In fact, what sets Holle apart from other European baby formulas on the market is that all of its formulas are either climate-neutral or climate positive.
It is also important to mention that while all of Holle formulas are organic, some of them even hold one of the strictest private organic certifications in Europe, the Demeter seal!
The company has a wide range of baby formulas available. The brand boasts formulas based on regular cow milk, A2 cow milk, as well as goat milk. They offer infant formula for newborns, follow-on formulas for babies that are 6 months or older, and toddler formula for kiddos 12 months and up!
Holle Formula: European Organic & Demeter Certification
All Holle formula hold the EU organic certification. What makes EU organic formula some of the absolute best formula available is that it is free of GMOs, artificial colors and preservatives, and aromas or flavor enhancers.
You have probably noticed the bright orange Demeter label that some Holle bio formula carries, but have you ever wondered what exactly Demeter stands for?
The Demeter organic certification system is used to verify that products are grown using biodynamic methods which help to ensure that more is given back to the environment than is taken out.
When You Purchase Holle Baby Formula You Can Feel Good That:
- While growing raw ingredients, pesticides and chemical fertilizers are prohibited
- The milk used in Holle formula contains organic and/or biodynamically grown ingredients
- The brand sustains a long-lasting supply of premium raw ingredients by working closely with Demeter certified farmers
- Raw ingredients are gently processed and cooked while undergoing continual quality control checks
- Holle products meet strict safety, legal, and nutritional requirements
Understanding Holle Formula Ingredients 🔎🍼
Carefully selected and grown ingredients are a must-have in organic formula and fortunately, you can count on the premium ingredients in Holle formula to meet your baby's nutritional needs!
Macronutrients: Organic Vegetable Oils for Healthy Fats and Carbohydrates ✅
All Holle organic formula products are packed with essential nutrients that help you baby grow and thrive, starting with macronutrients. These nourishing blends consist of a carefully curated selection of ingredients, including a mixture of organic vegetable oils like sustainably sourced organic palm oil, organic sunflower oil, and organic rapeseed oil.
The formulas draw their carbohydrate content from organic sources such as organic maltodextrin, lactose, and organic starch. Keep in mind the specific oils and carb sources vary depending on the product range, but let us take a closer look at the main three below.
Organic Lactose
Lactose is the main carbohydrate found in breast milk. It is broken down by the small intestine into glucose and galactose and acts as the main supply of energy for your baby. It is also involved in brain tissue formation. Lactose in infant formula (Holle stage 1 or PRE) serves as the main carbohydrate source. Compared to some other complex carbohydrates, it is thought to be gentler on digestion.
Organic Maltodextrin
Maltodextrin is added to formula often as a thickener. It can help food stay in your baby's stomach better which may work to prevent regurgitation. Maltodextrin is more slowly broken down during digestion compared to some other carbohydrates which may contribute to a feeling of fullness in your baby.
Organic Starch
It is the main carbohydrate-polysaccharide of plants and it can be found in cereals, legumes, vegetables, and fruits. When added to formula, it helps make the consistency more creamy which many babies prefer. Further, it is more slowly broken down during digestion compared to some other carbohydrates which may contribute to a feeling of fullness in your baby.
Micronutrients: Vitamins and Minerals ✅
In addition to the essential macronutrient components, Holle baby formula also provides a host of vital micronutrients derived from various ingredients. This includes vitamin D, vitamin K, vitamin C, Vitamin E, folic acid, fish oil, sodium chloride, calcium carbonate, and potassium chloride.
Here are the specific ways these nutritional powerhouses work to support your little one's growth and development:
- Vitamin C: Essential for growth, development, and immune support.
- Vitamin E: Protects cells and supports various bodily functions.
- Vitamin K: Crucial for blood clotting and bone health.
- Vitamin D: Vital for calcium absorption and bone development.
- Folic Acid: Aids in the production of the body's genetic material (DNA and RNA) and is particularly important for tissues and cells undergoing rapid growth.
- Pantothenic Acid (Vitamin B5): Involved in energy production and hormone synthesis.
- Zinc Sulfate: Supports immune function, wound healing, and overall growth and development.
Finally, the company sources DHA from algae and ARA from Mortierella Alpina oil, ensuring a plant-based source of these essential nutrients. The partnership between DHA (Docosahexaenoic acid) and Omega-6 fatty acids, like ARA (Arachidonic Acid), is beneficial for supporting cognitive and developmental outcomes in infants. These components are also vital for the healthy development of your baby's eyes and immune system responses.
No Hidden Nasties: What Ingredients Holle Formula Leaves Out
As much as it is important to include the good stuff in infant formula, it is also beneficial to leave out ingredients that do not fully support a baby's health and well-being. Here is a closer look at what Holle ditches when it comes to crafting its organic baby formula.
• No Synthetic Nutrients or Preservatives ❌
Holle organic formula is meticulously crafted to exclude synthetic nutrients, preservatives, and flavours. Unlike the case with some conventional baby formulas, you will not find artificial additives in Holle's products.
• GMO-Free Commitment ❌
Genetically modified organisms (GMOs) have been a subject of concern for many consumers. The company shares these concerns and has made a resolute commitment to being GMO-free, which is further upheld by the Demeter and EU organic certification standards the brand abides by.
• Skipping Added Sugars ❌
The company recognizes that added sugars in formula, such as high-fructose corn syrup, have no business being an ingredient in infant nutrition. The company takes a strong stance against the inclusion of these unhealthy sweeteners in its formulas. Instead, they rely primarily on the natural sweetness of organic lactose to provide a gentle and wholesome source of carbohydrates for growing babies!
Holle Formula Stages
The company understands that every stage of your baby's development is unique and that their nutritional needs evolve as they grow. Consequently, Holle makes infant, follow-on, and toddler formula to support your child every step of the way throughout their first years of life.
Different Kinds of Holle Organic Formula
The company offers 3 main types of formula, standard cow milk formula, A2 cow milk formula, and goat milk formula. Common ingredients that can be found in Holle formula regardless of the milk type include blends of vegetable oils such as organic sunflower oil, organic palm oil (sustainably sourced), and organic rapeseed oil. Additionally as stated earlier, each formula contains a main carbohydrate source which is derived from organic lactose, starch, or maltodextrin.
Other nutrients in the standard cow milk formula, A2 cow milk formula, and goat milk formula ranges come from a myriad of ingredients. These include components such as vitamin D, vitamin K, vitamin C, Vitamin E, fish oil, folic acid, sodium chloride, calcium carbonate, potassium chloride, organic lactose, and organic starch.
Like many European formulas, whenever possible, Holle sources ingredients from organic or biodynamic farming. If you're curious about the specific ingredients of a particular formula you can find this information on the formula product page on our website!
Holle Goat Milk Formula
Holle goat milk formula is all the rage right now and for good reason! Infant formulas based on goat milk rather than cow milk, come out ahead in terms of digestibility. That is because babies digest goat milk formula roughly two times faster than cow milk. Happy tummies have goat milk's unique protein structure to thank for this outstanding result.
The milk proteins in goat milk formulas form curds or milk clumps in the stomach that are smaller, softer, and looser than those formed by their cow's milk counterparts. This means delicate, tiny tummies usually have an easier time breaking these goat milk curds down. Plus, the milk proteins in goat milk are naturally A2 and tend to be better suited to sensitive tummies, whereas most cow's milk protein is A1 and can cause inflammation in the body.
Goat's milk formula can be a great alternative to the usual cow's milk formula but it is not suitable for babies with an established or suspected cow's milk protein allergy (CMPA). Due to the similar protein structure of both kinds of milk, there is a risk of cross-over reaction. Because of this, goat milk baby formula is not any less likely to bring about allergies in babies than cow infant milk formula is. It is also not appropriate for babies with severe lactose intolerance.
Holle Goat Milk Formula Stages Include:
- Holle Goat Milk Stage PRE (0 to 6 months)
- Holle Goat Milk Stage 1
- Holle Goat Milk Stage 1 - Dutch Version
- Holle Goat Milk Stage 2
- Holle Goat Milk Stage 2 - Dutch Version
- Holle Goat Milk Stage 3 (10+ months)
- Holle Goat Milk Stage 3 - Dutch Version
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Holle Goat Milk Stage 4
Holle Cow Milk Formula
Holle makes two different formula lines that are based on cow's milk. It offers a standard organic cow's milk formula and an A2 cow's milk formula. The standard range of Holle cow's milk-based formula comes in four stages; only stage 1 and 2 in this line hold the Demeter certification. These Demeter formulas are made from 99% organically grown ingredients and the other 1% is composed of vitamins and minerals! The milk used in these formulas comes from cows cared for in Demeter farms, where cows graze happily on lush fields and pastures and dehorning practices are strictly prohibited.
Holle Cow Milk Formula Stages Include:
- Holle Cow's Milk Stage PRE
- Holle Cow's Milk Stage 1
- Holle Cow's Milk Stage 2
- Holle Cow's Milk Stage 3
- Holle Cow's Milk Stage 4
The brand also offers a line of A2 cow's milk formula which is more similar to the natural composition of breast milk and is a perfect choice for little ones with sensitive tummies. A2 milk is also sometimes more easily digested by babies with mild lactose intolerance, but it is important to consult with your pediatrician first to find out what is more suitable for your baby! The A2 milk used in Holle formula is EU organic certified, and comes from specially selected cows that naturally produce A2 milk.
Holle A2 Cow Milk Formula Stages Include:
Holle Goat vs A2 Cow Milk Formula
Holle organic goat milk formula is known to have an amazing effect on babies with sensitive tummies due to its gentle composition. Similarly, Holle offers A2 milk formula, which also doesn't produce the potentially problematic peptide BCM-7 during digestion. The company uses EU organic certified A2 milk from specially selected cows that naturally produce this gentle protein, ensuring that your baby receives the benefits of this easily digestible milk!
Why We Love Holle Organic Baby Formula?
Holle organic infant formula is one of the few options on the market if you are looking for a Demeter-certified formula. This is a seal that the brand's regular cow's milk infant formula stage 1 proudly holds. Holle baby formula also caters to sensitive stomachs with their goat milk and A2 cow milk formula options. All of their formulas are designed to mirror the goodness found in the natural nutrients of breast milk
They are one of our favorite European formulas because no matter which Holle organic baby formula you opt for, you will find clean nutritious ingredients like vitamin D, vitamin K, vitamin C, vitamin E, fish oil, organic vegetable oils, folic acid, and calcium carbonate.
We appreciate their commitment to sourcing ingredients from biodynamic farming which takes into consideration the wellbeing of the planet, people, and animals! The brand has 3 different lines of baby formula powder to choose from, so be sure to reach out to your pediatrician to find out which one is best for your baby!
General Questions on Holle Bio Formula
Where is Holle Formula Made?
Production is in the border region of Germany and Switzerland. The organic certification Demeter requires producers to obtain ingredients from Germany.
How Long Does 1 box of Holle Formula Stage 1 Last?
The shelf life of our boxes is at least six months from the date of order. On average, one box (400g/14.1oz) makes approx. 20 bottles. This number depends on how old your baby is and how much formula they need.
How Much Vitamin D is in Holle Formula?
Holle Pre, stage 1, and stage 2 contain 1.4µg/100ml (3.5oz) and stage 3 and 4 contain 1.6µg. If your baby eats the recommended amount they ingest the right amount of vitamin D. If they don’t you should talk to your pediatrician and think about supplementing in addition, especially during winter months.
How Many Calories are in Holle Formula?
Depending on the stage of the formula the calories range around 66kcal/100ml (3.5 fl oz). The nutritional value varies slightly from each stage. Please check our product page for more information on this.
How Long is Holle Formula Good for Once Prepared?
Formula should always be prepared freshly and leftovers should not be heated up. They can be stored in the fridge for a couple hours, however, let it warm up to room temperature before feeding it to your baby.
How to Prepare Holle Formula?
You prepare the formula just as any formula. Boil the right amount of water and let it cool, add the corresponding amount of powder using the measuring cup and mix it by shaking or stirring. You can find the English preparation instructions in our support center.
How Many Ounces Does Holle Formula Make?
The product comes in 400g (14.1 oz) boxes, which make approx. 100 fl oz of prepared formula. Please check the box for age-appropriate preparation recommendations. You’ll find the English version on our product page.
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