Choosing baby formula
If you have ever stood in the formula aisle and been overwhelmed with the choice available and confused at which one to chose you can take comfort in knowing you are not alone.
You may be left wondering asking questions.
Questions such as… Which formula do I chose? Does it matter what formula I chose?
Whilst most new mums may have the intention to breast feed for whatever individual reason not everyone can breast feed.
Sometimes there is the need to comp or mixed feeding or entirely formula feed.
There are so many different formulas available.
There are over 20 varieties of formula available ranging from ‘newborn’ to ‘follow-on’ formula to ‘toddler’ varieties
Whilst the range may seem daunting realistically there is little differences between formulas.
Claims of scientifically superior composition, most desirable makeup and optimal nutritional features for growth and development do not help in making the choice.
Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) tightly controls the manufacture of infant formula. Manufactures must adhere to regulations including the use of additives are highly regulated.
Whereas FSANZ only provide a guideline on the maximum level of vitamins and minerals.
They do ensure that all manufactures adhere to the amount or set range of:
- Protein and the source of the protein (eg. soy, cows’ milk, rice)
- Energy and fat content.
- The ratio of essential fatty acids (LA and ALA)
- Aluminum
- Vitamins and minerals. Including the quality and ingredients thought to be biologically active, such as fish oils and probiotics
- Clear information about serving size and preparation
- The ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 fish oil fatty acids (EPA and DHA)
- The appropriate infant age for the formula
- Carbohydrates
- Preparation guidelines and specific warnings to preparation and usage.
What is formula?
The protein component of cow’s milk if made up of two main proteins. Casein and Whey.
A formula can be either a Casein or Whey based formula. Whey based formulas tend to be the most popular. Additionally, there are alternative formula options of Soy or Goat’s Milk Soy.
Traditionally it is considered that Whey protein is a softer and lighter formula and easier for the baby to digest and closer to the breast milk than the heavier casein formulas.
If you find for whatever reason you feel you need to switch your baby’s formula once they are on a formula it is recommended to consult a health nurse or your doctor.
If you are on a formula and your baby is not thriving or has some issues such as vomiting, loose bowel movements, etc talk to your doctor about switching formulas.
Some babies will have a reaction to a particular formula.
There are five main components to formula: Carbohydrate, protein, fat, vitamins, and minerals, plus other nutrients in smaller quantities.
The main difference between one brand of formula and another is the specific carbohydrates and proteins as well as any additional ingredients.
Whey dominant formula Casein dominant formula Soy based formula
| The major component of the formula is in similar proportions to human milk. They generally have less sodium, potassium and minerals.
Common whey based dominant formulas are: Karicare First, S26 Gold, Nan, Heinz starter. |
Have a heavier curd and mineral content and are less altered. Some may find that after using the whey formula that their child may still appear hungry and so they may switch to the heavier formula.
Common casein formulas are: SMA or Lactogen. |
These formulas are made with a plant protein. The formula contains soy bean protein from the soy bean a vegetable rather than animal protein and usually there are no added carbohydrates. These formulas you will generally find are more expensive.
Unless there is a specific identified reason you give your child this there is no other basis why they should have this. Research suggests that it is no better value to the child. Common soy formulas are: Infasoy, Karicare Soya |
