Infant Formula

European Infant Formula Brands

European formulas have become increasingly popular with parents seeking simpler ingredient lists and stricter agricultural standards. In the European Union, both formula production and farming are highly regulated, with tighter controls on pesticide use, antibiotic exposure in dairy herds, the types of ingredients that can be used, and limits on contaminants.

Parents often choose European formulas because they value:

• Organic or biodynamic farming standards

• Transparent sourcing of milk and fats

• Fewer synthetic additives

• Gentle processing methods

For example, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) requires that at least 30% of the total carbohydrate content of milk-based first infant formula come from lactose, which mirrors the natural sugar found in breast milk.

Many European brands also opt for more natural recipes, making whole milk a popular alternative fat source rather than relying entirely on vegetable oils, as is common in many skimmed milk formulas. This can result in creamier milk, fewer processing steps, a palm oil-free composition, and, for some babies, improved tolerance.

Organic Infant Formula vs Non-Organic, GMO-Free Options

One of the first decisions many parents face is whether to choose an organic or conventional formula. Organic certification isn't just a trendy label; it comes with clear rules about how ingredients are sourced and how dairy animals are raised.

This means no genetically modified ingredients, no synthetic pesticides or fertilizers, and no routine use of antibiotics. Organic standards also tend to place more emphasis on animal welfare and environmentally responsible farming, which matters to a lot of families thinking about long-term health and sustainability.

In Europe, organic infant formula standards are especially strict and typically require that formulas be:

• Free from genetically modified organisms (GMOs)

• Made without artificial flavours, colours, preservatives, or added aromas

• Produced without growth hormones or steroids

• Sourced from farms that do not use chemical pesticide sprays

• Made with very limited antibiotic use (only when medically necessary for animal health)

• From animals fed a 100% organic diet with no synthetic feed additives

• Formulated with at least 95% certified organic ingredients

From a nutritional standpoint, both organic and non‑organic formulas must provide the same essential nutrients, including protein, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. Where organic formulas may differ is in the type and source of those ingredients, rather than the nutritional values themselves.

Non‑organic formulas made without GMOs can still be very high-quality and are often the only option when babies require specialized medical formulas, such as hypoallergenic formula.

Types of Infant Formula

Babies don't all digest food the same way, which is why infant formula comes in several different categories. Keep reading to discover the differences between goat, cow, Comfort, Anti-Reflux, Hypoallergenic, and Ready to Feed milk.

Goat Milk Infant Formula

Infant goat milk formula has gained attention for its natural digestibility and simpler protein structure. Compared to cow's milk, goat milk contains smaller fat globules and forms a softer curd in the stomach, which can make digestion easier for some infants. It also naturally contains A2‑type proteins, which are closer in structure to those found in human milk. Goat milk formulas are available by several well-known brands, including HiPP, Holle, Kendamil, Löwenzahn, and more!

Parents often report improvements in gas, bloating, and stool consistency when switching to goat milk formula, particularly when babies have mild sensitivities to cow's milk proteins. However, it's important to note that goat milk formula is not suitable for babies with a diagnosed cow milk protein allergy, as the proteins are similar enough to still trigger reactions. They're best viewed as a gentler alternative for sensitive tummies, not a medical solution for allergies.

Cow Milk-Based Infant Formula

Cow milk remains the most studied and widely used base for infant milk worldwide. For most babies, standard cow's milk-based infant formula is both nutritionally complete and well tolerated. It provides consistent, predictable nutrition and supports healthy growth patterns when prepared and used as directed.

While some infants may require alternative formulas due to allergies or digestive sensitivities, cow milk formula remains the first-line choice for most families and is trusted by pediatric professionals worldwide as a safe and effective feeding option. Leading cow milk formula brands include HiPP, Holle, Kendamil, Aptamil, Lebenswert, and more!

Gentle Infant Formula: Comfort and Anti-Reflux

Gastrointestinal discomfort is common in infants because their digestive systems are still developing. Kendamil Comfort and HiPP Comfort are specialty products designed to reduce the effort required to break down proteins and carbohydrates. As infant formula for colic and constipation management, they can help relieve gas and fussiness and promote more regular bowel movements.

Comfort infant formulas contain hydrolyzed proteins, meaning the proteins are broken into smaller pieces that are easier to digest. They also have lower lactose content to support smoother digestion and healthier stool patterns for babies with lactose sensitivity.

HiPP Anti‑Reflux formula is another specialty formula, but unlike Comfort products, it's designed to manage excessive spit-up. The milk is thickened so it stays in babies' stomachs more easily. This can reduce the frequency and volume of spit‑up.

While both Comfort and Anti‑Reflux formulas can improve feeding experiences, they are not intended to treat allergies or lactose intolerance and should not replace medical evaluation if symptoms are severe or persistent.

Hypoallergenic Infant Formula

HiPP HA Hypoallergenic formulas are specifically designed for little ones with sensitivity to cow's milk proteins or a family history of allergies. This extensively hydrolyzed infant formula contains proteins broken down into small fragments, so a baby's immune system is less likely to recognize them as allergens. It's also enriched with prebiotics and probiotics to support gut microbiome balance and strengthen immunity.

If you suspect your baby has an allergy, consult your pediatrician to determine a suitable, personalized feeding solution. In more severe cases, a doctor may prescribe an amino acid formula that contains no intact proteins at all.

Ready to Feed Infant Formula

Ready‑to‑feed formula is a premixed liquid that offers the highest level of convenience and safety, particularly during the newborn period when the immune system is still immature. Because the formula is prepared and sterile, there is no risk of incorrect dilution or bacterial contamination from water sources.

Many hospitals use ready‑to‑feed formula for supplementation in the first days of life, and some parents continue using it at home for nighttime feeds or while traveling. The main drawbacks are higher cost, heavier packaging, and shorter shelf life once opened, compared to infant formula powder. HiPP and Kendamil both offer ready-to-feed bottles in addition to powdered infant formula products.

How to Prepare Infant Formula

Safe preparation is just as important as choosing the right formula. Incorrect mixing can lead to dehydration, under‑nutrition, or digestive upset, while improper storage increases the risk of bacterial growth.

Preparation varies depending on the type of formula you're using, whether it's powdered infant formula, liquid concentrate, or ready-to-feed.

Always start by washing your hands and using clean, sterilized bottles and nipples. Follow the mixing instructions exactly as written on the packaging of your specific formula product, using level scoops and the correct amount of water. Never add extra powder or water to adjust calories unless specifically directed by a qualified healthcare provider.

General formula preparation guidelines include:

• Wash your hands thoroughly before handling bottles, nipples, or formula.

• Use clean, sterilized bottles and nipples, especially for newborns.

• Measure water first, then add formula using level scoops for powdered formula.

• Use the exact water-to-formula ratio listed on the package.

• Mix gently by swirling rather than shaking to reduce air bubbles and foam.

• Warm bottles safely by placing them in warm water if needed.

• Check the temperature on your wrist before feeding.

Prepared bottles should be used within 2 hours at room temperature or within 24 hours if refrigerated. Any leftover formula in a bottle after feeding should be discarded, as bacteria from the baby's mouth can multiply quickly.

Best Infant Formula for Newborns: Organic's Best Top Picks

Newborn formulas are designed to be especially gentle and closely aligned with the nutritional profile of breast milk. They typically use lactose as the primary carbohydrate, include essential fatty acids like DHA and ARA, and avoid heavier starches that may be harder for very young babies to digest. Here are some of the best organic infant formula for newborns.

HiPP Infant Formula

HiPP is a German infant formula brand that crafts innovative formulations that blend nature and science to deliver some of the best European infant formulas on the market. They use high-quality organic ingredients whenever possible, and focus on recipes that closely mirror breast milk.

From farm to finished box, the brand monitors every step of production, from ingredient sourcing to processing and packaging, allowing them to enforce contaminant limits that exceed standard EU organic requirements through their own Organic Seal.

Crafted with digestive health in mind, most HiPP infant formula includes prebiotic galacto-oligosaccharides (GOS) derived from lactose, and many also contain probiotics originally isolated from human breast milk to support gut microbiome development and immunity. Certain products also include Metafolin®, a highly bioavailable form of vitamin B9, similar to folate in breast milk that's more readily absorbed than synthetic folic acid.

Holle Infant Formula

Holle is a top European formula brand, known for their simple ingredient lists, gentle production methods, and commitment to sustainability. They offer a diverse range of organic baby formulas, including options based on cow's milk, A2 cow's milk, and goat's milk.

All Holle infant formula holds EU organic certification, and most also have Demeter biodynamic certification, the strictest private organic certification globally. Demeter standards require additional practices, such as prohibiting dehorning, to support animal welfare and improve the nutrient quality of their milk.

Kendamil Infant Formula

Kendamil is known for their whole milk recipes, which naturally provide babies with MFGM, essential omega fatty acids, and fat-soluble vitamins, making it a great brain-building infant formula. Other staples of Kendamil infant formula include DHA sourced from marine algae, prebiotics, vegetarian certification, no palm oil, and purely lactose-based carbs in their regular cow and goat milk formulas. Their EU organic lines include Organic UK and Bio Nature, both award-winning full-cream cow's milk options.

Answering Your Questions

Below, you'll find the answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about infant formula milk.

How Much Formula for an Infant?

Formula intake varies based on age, weight, and individual appetite. In the early weeks, babies may take only small amounts every few hours, gradually increasing volume as their stomach capacity grows. Rather than focusing strictly on ounce targets, it's best to follow your baby's hunger cues and monitor steady growth and diaper output.

Which Infant Formula Helps with Digestion?

Formulas that may improve digestive comfort include goat milk formulas, comfort formulas with hydrolyzed proteins, and formulas that include pre- and probiotics to support healthy gut bacteria. Improvements are usually seen as reduced gas, softer stools, and less fussiness after feeding.

Which Infant Formula is Enriched with Probiotics?

Most HiPP formulas are enriched with probiotics, specifically Lactobacillus fermentum, a beneficial lactic acid bacteria strain that was originally isolated from breast milk.

Which Infant Formula Has DHA and ARA?

DHA (omega-3) is a mandatory ingredient in all European formulas. Stage PRE and Stage 1 formula will typically also include ARA (omega-6). Together, these essential fatty acids support brain development, vision, and immune function.

Which Infant Formula is Easiest to Mix and Store?

Ready‑to‑feed formula requires no mixing and offers maximum convenience, but it is heavier and takes up more pantry space, while powdered infant formulas require more intensive preparation but typically consume less storage space.