5 Best Enfamil Formula Alternatives: Growing Up Great
Beyond the brand: Uncover the best Enfamil alternatives and make an informed choice for your baby
Updated November 27, 2024.
Many parents turn to formula for various reasons—some by choice, others out of necessity. Whatever the motivation, one thing remains constant—parents want the best for their children.
Pediatricians often recommend Enfamil because of its nutritional profile, which is similar to that of breast milk. But, like many commercial formulas, it's highly processed and contains added sugars and various additives that many prefer to avoid.
This guide will explore the best Enfamil alternatives, providing the information needed to make an informed choice for your baby's nutrition.
» Tired of commercial formulas? Switch to natural and organic formula
Our Top 5 Picks for Best Enfamil Formula Alternatives
- Best overall Enfamil alternative: Else Toddler Omega Formula
- Best hypoallergenic Enfamil alternative: Similac Alimentum
- Best Enfamil alternative for sensitive tummies: Bubs Goat Milk Formula
- Best prebiotic and probiotic Enfamil alternative: Nutricia Neocate Pepticate
- Best plant-based Enfamil alternative: Baby's Only Pea Protein Formula
Best overall Enfamil formula alternative
1
Outstanding
9.9
Else Nutrition Toddler Omega Plant-Based Complete & Balanced Nutrition
Baby nutrition made easy
Best hypoallergenic Enfamil formula alternative
2
Outstanding
9.8
Similac Alimentum
A healthy start for a bright future
Best Enfamil formula alternative for sensitive tummies
3
Outstanding
9.7
Bubs Goat Milk Infant Formula
Clean, clear, healthy
Show more
Why Some Parents Avoid Commercial Formulas
While commercial formulas like Enfamil meet regulatory standards and provide essential nutrients, some parents seek alternatives for various reasons:
- Concerns about additives: Many commercial formulas contain synthetic nutrients, preservatives, and sweeteners that some parents prefer to avoid.
- Digestive issues: Some babies may have difficulty digesting certain ingredients in commercial formulas, which can lead to discomfort or allergic reactions.
- Environmental and ethical considerations: The production of commercial formulas often involves intensive dairy farming and palm oil production, which can have negative environmental impacts.
- Desire for more natural options: Some parents prefer formulas with fewer processed ingredients and those closer to whole food sources.
- Concerns about contaminants: Occasional recalls due to contamination issues have led some parents to seek safer alternatives.
- Preference for organic ingredients: Many commercial formulas use non-organic ingredients, which may concern parents worried about pesticide exposure.
» Learn why choosing organic is the healthy option for your baby
Best overall Enfamil formula alternative
1
Outstanding
9.9
Else Nutrition Toddler Omega
Baby nutrition made easy
Price
$27.99
Servings
17
Age
12 + months
Why choose Else Nutrition Toddler Omega
Else Nutrition Toddler Omega Plant-Based Complete & Balanced Nutrition stands out as a clean, allergen-friendly option that caters to sensitive tummies.
Its plant-based formulation, free from common allergens like dairy and soy, makes it an excellent choice for children with food sensitivities or those following a plant-based diet.
Unlike many generic options, Else Nutrition's formula is also free from preservatives and added sugars, ensuring a pure and wholesome experience for your little one.
Pros and cons
USDA organic certified
No corn syrup or GMOs
Contains over 80% whole food ingredients
Not suitable for infants under 12 months
Best hypoallergenic Enfamil formula alternative
2
Outstanding
9.8
Similac Alimentum
Price
$38.38
Servings
14
Age
0–36 months
Why choose Similac Alimentum
Alimentum is a hypoallergenic formula that's particularly beneficial for infants with colic, food allergies, and lactose sensitivity. It's the only hypoallergenic infant formula containing 2'-FL HMO, an ingredient that supports immune health.
Pros and cons
Suitable for sensitive tummies
Contains 2'-FL HMO for immune support
May reduce colic symptoms quickly
Not suitable for severe milk allergies
More costly than other options
Best Enfamil formula alternative for sensitive tummies
3
Outstanding
9.7
Bubs Goat Milk Infant Formula
Price
$44
Servings
32
Age
0–12 months
Why choose Bubs Goat Milk Formula
Bubs Goat Milk Formula offers a unique solution for babies who struggle with cow's milk-based formulas but don't necessarily have severe allergies. The A2 goat protein and easy-to-digest fats make it a gentle option for sensitive tummies.
Its clean ingredient list and lack of artificial additives appeal to parents looking for a more natural formula option.
Pros and cons
Contains A2 goat protein
Free from artificial additives
Contains prebiotics
Lacks probiotics
Not suitable for babies with goat's milk allergies
Best pre- and probiotic Enfamil formula alternative
4
Nutricia Neocate Pepticate
Price
$37.99
Servings
28
Age
0–12 months
Why choose Nutricia Neocate Pepticate
Nutricia Neocate Pepticate is an excellent choice for babies with severe allergies or complex digestive issues. Its amino acid-based formulation makes it highly digestible, while its prebiotics and probiotics sets it apart in terms of gut health support.
Pros and cons
Amino acid-based
Suitable for various digestive conditions
Contains pre- and probiotics
May have an unpleasant taste or smell
Contains no DHA or ARA
Best plant-based Enfamil formula alternative
5
Baby's Only Pea Protein Formula
Price
$19.54
Servings
21
Age
12–36 months
Why choose Baby's Only Pea Protein Formula
Baby's Only Organic Plant-Based Pea Protein Toddler Drink offers a unique plant-based solution for toddlers who can't tolerate dairy or soy-based formulas. Its organic certification and free-from status regarding common allergens make it an attractive option for health-conscious parents. The small-batch production process adds an extra layer of quality assurance.
Pros and cons
Organic and plant-based
Free from dairy, soy, and gluten
Contains 25 essential vitamins and minerals
Lacks prebiotics and probiotics
Only suitable for children 12-36 months old
How to Choose a Good Alternative
When selecting a different formula, consider these factors:
- Nutritional Profile: Ensure it provides enough nutritional benefits, including essential vitamins, minerals, and Omega fatty acids like DHA and ARA.
- Ingredients: Look for high-quality, easily digestible ingredients that suit your baby's needs and dietary restrictions.
- Age Appropriateness: Choose an option for your baby's age group.
- Pediatrician's Recommendation: Always consult with your pediatrician before switching formulas.
- Taste and Acceptance: Some babies may prefer the taste of specific formulas over others.
- Brand Reputation: Research the brand's history, manufacturing practices, and recall records.
» Check out these tips for a gentle transition from breastfeeding
Signs That a Formula Isn't Right for Your Baby
It's essential to pay attention to your baby's response to any formula. Look for signs that might indicate the current formula isn't suitable:
- Excessive fussiness or crying, especially after feeding
- Frequent spit-up or vomiting
- Difficulty gaining weight
- Constipation or diarrhea
- Rash or other signs of allergic reaction
- Gas or bloating
» Discover the signs that formula isn't right for your baby
Finding the Perfect Formula for Your Baby
Choosing the right formula for your baby is a personal decision that depends on your child's unique needs, your family's values, and your pediatrician's recommendations. While Enfamil is a well-respected brand, these alternatives offer excellent options for parents seeking something different.
Remember, every baby is different, and what works best for one may not be right for another. Trust your instincts as a parent, and with patience and attentiveness, you'll find the perfect formula to support your little one's growth and development.
» Sick of the same old commercial brands? Upgrade to natural and organic formula
The content and advice provided in this article are for informational purposes only and are not a substitute for medical diagnosis, treatment, or advice for specific medical conditions. Always consult a pediatrician to understand the individual needs of your child.