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Choosing the Right Baby Formula

Choosing the right baby formula can be quite overwhelming at first. Initially, there is infant formula, followed by follow-on milk 2 or 3. Should you choose cow's milk or goat's milk? Which baby formula is best for your child? We help you navigate the baby formula jungle and explain the differences from a clear nutritional science perspective.

The Best for Your Baby: Breast Milk

It is widely known that breast milk is the best food for your baby. No ingredient lists to decipher, no additional vitamins or minerals needed – it always contains the right nutrients in the optimal composition.

If breastfeeding is not possible, or if you want to supplement breast milk, formula feeding is a good alternative. But which baby formula is best if you choose to bottle-feed? There are different types of infant and follow-on milk, tailored to your baby's age and needs.

Goat’s Milk as an Alternative to Cow’s Milk

Goat’s milk is naturally gentler on sensitive baby tummies and provides a great alternative to cow’s milk-based formulas. More and more parents are opting for goat’s milk formula because it is a nutritious and well-balanced option. Just like cow’s milk, goat’s milk contains all the essential nutrients your baby needs for healthy growth.

Infant Formula – Suitable from Birth

Infant formula is a type of bottle-feeding suitable from birth. It typically contains lactose (milk sugar) as the only carbohydrate source, along with unsaturated fatty acids and other essential macro- and micronutrients.

Some parents continue to give their baby infant formula for the entire first year of life. However, after six months, it may be beneficial to switch to follow-on milk, which is better suited to the needs of older babies. Besides age, the introduction of solid foods also plays a role—follow-on milk is designed to complement this transition.

Follow-On Milk 2 – From 6 Months

Follow-on milk 2 is specifically developed for babies from six months onward, as their nutritional needs change. This milk contains more iron than infant formula because a baby’s natural iron stores start to deplete over time.

Additionally, follow-on milk contains slightly more energy, protein, calcium, iodine, and vitamin D—nutrients that support your baby’s growth and increasing activity. That’s why switching to follow-on milk after six months is important.

For breastfed babies, breast milk naturally adapts to their changing needs. However, for mothers who do not breastfeed or who supplement with formula, it is important to choose a follow-on milk that is optimally suited to their baby’s age and nutritional requirements.

Follow-On Milk 3 – From 10 Months

Follow-on milk 3, also known as follow-on milk 10+, is tailored to the needs of babies from 10 months onward. As your baby grows, solid foods become an increasingly important part of their diet.

By around 10 months, your baby has likely already started eating solid foods, such as porridge. A bottle with porridge can be introduced as early as four months: Simply mix 2–3 tablespoons of baby cereal into 200 ml of breast milk or the best bottle formula.

From six months, a porridge bowl can also be offered: Mix 5–6 tablespoons of baby cereal with 200 ml of breast milk or the best formula for newborns. In addition to porridge, fruits, vegetables, and finely chopped warm meals can gradually be introduced.

Follow-on milk 2 and 3 are also great for preparing baby porridge.

Which Baby Formula Is the Best?

Several factors play a role in choosing the best baby formula. Whether to opt for cow’s milk or goat’s milk, organic ingredients, and added nutrients can make a difference.

So, which baby formula is best? It depends on your baby’s individual needs. For newborns, breast milk or infant formula is the best choice, while older babies can benefit from switching to follow-on milk.

Did You Know...?

Did you know that we have plenty of recipes for babies and the whole family? Check out our Instagram channel and discover inspiring baby-friendly meals!