The Best Baby Formula of 2023, According to Reviewers
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If you can't or don't want to breastfeed full-time, baby formula is a wonderful alternative or supplemental form of nutrition that can help infants grow and meet developmental milestones. But there are so many options to choose from, and we're talking about nourishing one of the most precious things in your life — your baby. So, it can be difficult to decide what's the best baby formula for you.
When finding the right formula for your infant, Sharifa N. Glass, MD, IBCLC, owner of The Vine Pediatrics and Lactation, suggests reviewing your child's medical history with your pediatrician, who'll be able to provide an appropriate recommendation. "For example, infants with a history of prematurity, fussiness, frequent episodes of vomiting, or metabolic disorders require different baby formulas," she says.
Typically, Jessica Madden, MD, FAAP, IBCLC, medical director of Aeroflow Breastpumps and infant feeding specialist, recommends starting infants on a standard, cow's-milk-protein-based formula, and to transition to an alternative formula (e.g. low lactose and/or partially hydrolyzed) if your baby doesn't tolerate standard infant formula.
There are also different types of formulas for different ages and stages, so pay attention to the labeling. Babies under 12 months old shouldn't receive toddler formulas (made for 12+ months), as they do not contain enough protein, fats, and vitamins/minerals for healthy growth and infant brain development.
Of course, the ongoing baby-formula shortage is still affecting supply locally, so parents don't always have the ability to pick the exact brand or type of formula they want. But when you're able to, it's helpful to know good options for your baby's specific needs, from sensitive tummies to dairy-free. Keep reading for the best baby formulas available to buy right now.
This information in this article is not medical advice. You should always consult your doctor regarding matters pertaining to you or your child's health and nutrition.
Best Organic Baby Formula
Bobbie Organic Infant Formula ($116)
This organic milk-based formula comes from grass-fed and pasture-raised cows. It's supplemented with iron and is meant to mimic the proteins in breast milk. It's also the only USDA and EU Certified Organic formula, which means it meets infant EU nutritional standards for DHA, an omega-3 fatty acid that supports brain and eye development. (The price is for four cans, and drops to $94 if you subscribe.)
"This formula changed my life!" one reviewer on Bobbie's website gushed. "After breastfeeding my other children, we tried formula for our most recent child. She took to it immediately, the product is excellent, and the customer service is incredible. Thank you!" Another reviewer noted that the formula smelled similar to her own breastmilk, which gave her peace of mind.
Most Affordable Baby Formula
Kirkland Signature ProCare Dual HMO Infant Formula ($48 for a two-pack)
Leave it to Costco to provide the cost-effective formula we need. One parent who spoke to POPSUGAR — Chad, a dad of three — says Costco's Kirkland-brand formula is his go-to pick: "It's cost effective and until the recent formula shortage, was always readily available." The only downside is you need to be a Costco member to buy it.
Best Dairy-Free Baby Formula
Enfamil ProSobee Infant Formula ($40)
Just because something is lactose-free doesn't mean it's dairy-free, and some infants can't have either lactose (a sugar found in milk) or dairy. This plant-based formula is suitable for infants with special dietary concerns. It's also vegan and Kosher, and with over 1,000 five-star reviews on Amazon, it's definitely a fan favorite. (The price is for one can.)
"My son can't have dairy or lactose and this formula solved all of our problems!" one Amazon reviewer wrote. "No more screaming for hours, straining, constipation. He has been on it for 3 months and he's thriving!"
Best Organic Formula For Sensitive Stomachs
Bobbie Organic Gentle Infant Formula ($112)
Bobbie recently released an organic formula that's specifically formulated for gassy or fussy feeders. Their gentle formula uses proteins that have been broken down into smaller pieces called peptides, which are easier to digest for less GI discomfort post-feeding. The price is for a four-can subscription. (Bobbie's commitment to not over-extending itself means the site does occasionally sell out of its subscriptions, but you can usually check back a week or so later to see if more have opened up.)
Best Soy-Free Baby Formula
Neocate Infant DHA/ARA ($178)
For babies who suffer from multiple food allergies, including cow milk, this powder may be worth asking your pediatrician about. It's an amino-acid-based formula that's produced in a dairy-protein-free facility. Amazon reviewers say it's a "game changer" for their baby. (The price is for four cans.)
Best "I Can't Believe It's Not Breastmilk" Baby Formula
Earth's Best Organic Baby Formula ($27)
With an all-lactose formula, this Earth's Best option claims to be very similar to breast milk. There's also no added corn syrup, carbohydrates, or artificial flavors or preservatives, and it is USDA Organic certified and Kosher. (The price is for one can.)
One Amazon reviewer shared this ringing endorsement: "My supply is too low to exclusively breastfeed. I had soooo much guilt admitting that I needed to supplement feed. Once I found this formula I felt less guilty."
Best Formula For Gassy Babies
Similac Pro-Total Comfort Non-GMO Powder Infant Formula ($37)
If you're a parent looking for a formula that can help ease gas and stomach discomfort, look no further than this Similac option. It claims to be easier to digest because of it's "pre-digested" milk proteins, which helps reduce colicky symptoms like fussiness and gas pains. (The price is for one can)
One Walmart reviewer stated, "My 4 month old is now finally able to feed without interruption from severe gas pains."