3 Best Dairy-Free Formula Picks: Nourish Without Compromise

With a growing number of children showing sensitivities to cow's milk, many parents are desperately seeking alternatives to traditional formulas. If you're one of them, you might be overwhelmed by the sheer number of choices on the market, each claiming to be the best solution.

We're here to help! Below, we'll explore the top options available today, breaking down their ingredients, benefits, and potential drawbacks. Whether you're dealing with allergies or simply looking for alternatives, we'll help you find the best dairy-free formula to nourish your little one.

» Nourish your child without compromise with soy- and dairy-free toddler formulas



For toddlers—babies older than 12 months—the Else Plant-Based Complete Nutrition for Toddlers is an excellent dairy-free, plant-powered alternative. It’s made with over 80% natural whole-plant ingredients, including almonds, buckwheat, and tapioca.

» Discover how plant-based milks compare to toddler formula

It's suitable for babies with dietary restrictions like lactose intolerance, FPIES, or even dairy allergies. Our team designed it with your baby's development in mind, combining plant proteins, unsaturated fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals.



Enfamil ProSobee Soy Sensitive formula is designed to help ease fussiness and gas caused by milk-based formulas. Soy-based formulas are a good choice for babies with galactosemia or families that are on a vegan diet. They extract the pure isolate from the plant for protein and use corn maltodextrin for carbohydrates.

» Recognize the signs of soy intolerance in kids

Other non-dairy, soy-based formulas worth mentioning are:

• Earth’s Best Organic: non-GMO, lactose-free, and kosher-certified alternative
• Similac Soy Isomil: Includes DHA, lutein, and vitamin E to support vision and brain development.
• Mama Bear Soy-Based Powder Infant Formula: Designed for babies up to 12 months and includes over 25 vitamins and minerals



Neocate Syneo Infant Hypoallergenic Formula formula contains DHA and ARA, fatty acids commonly found in breast milk. It's suitable for babies with dairy protein allergies.

Hypoallergenic formulas are essential for infants with CMPA because the manufacturers break down their allergy-causing proteins. Extensively hydrolyzed ones, which dissolve casein or whey into smaller peptides, are the recommended first-line treatment for CMPA. They provide relief for over 90% of affected infants.

» Explore a safe, plant-based alternative to cow's milk for complete infant nutrition

Other non-dairy, soy-based formulas worth mentioning are:

• Bebe M: Excludes dairy and soy allergens to accommodate the dietary needs of infants with cow milk protein allergy (CMPA) or lactose intolerance.
• PurAminoBaby’s Only Organic: Offers a non-dairy alternative using organic pea protein for children with allergies to dairy and soy
• Gerber Good Start: Friendly for babies with all allergies except soy and is also more budget-friendly. It's non-GMO, free from lactose, and kosher-certified, albeit some ingredients may not be suitable if you're looking for vegan options.

» Uncover if a plant-based formula is healthy for your baby

How to Transition to a Dairy-Free Formula

1. Do It Gradually

You should gradually shift to the non-dairy formula by blending the new brand with the old one and progressively reducing the quantity of the original. You should also consistently feed it to the baby at least three times a week to help them get used to it. This helps the baby gradually adjust to the new taste and texture. If you're replacing standard options with hydrolyzed options, you won't have to do it slowly.

» Here's how to transition your baby from breast milk to formula

2. Monitor for Progress

Monitor the baby’s bowel movements and look for signs of formula tolerance. To reduce the likelihood of discomfort, such as reflux, feed the baby in a relaxed setting, choose the right nipple for the bottle, and keep the baby upright after feeding.

» Find out what to do when your baby is refusing the bottle

3. Consult a Pediatrician

A pediatrician can help you before making the switch by doing the following:

• A thorough assessment of the baby’s health
• Consideration of any potential allergies
• Recommendations based on the baby’s specific needs
• Monitoring of the baby’s response to the new formula
• Adjustment of the dietary plan as necessary

» Try delicious, plant-based nutritional formulas your little ones will love

Nourishing Your Kid With a Lactose-Free Formula

Dairy-free formulas offer a safe and effective alternative for infants with allergies or who can't tolerate milk. The options we've discussed above can help your kid's specific dietary needs and preferences while providing a balanced mix of nutrients.

» Understand lactose intolerance vs. milk allergy in babies, toddlers, and children

If you're still deciding which one to pick, why not try Else Nutrition's Plant-Based Toddler Formula Collection? It's made with over 80% natural whole-food ingredients—free of gluten, soy, corn syrup, and GMOs. It's also certified by USDA Organic and Clean Label Project Purity.