Best Newborn Formula Singapore 2023 - 16 Best Formula Milk for Newborns

Newborn usually refers to a baby from birth to about 2 months of age. Infants can be considered children anywhere from birth to 1 year old. Baby can be used to refer to any child from birth to age 4 years old, thus encompassing newborns, infants, and toddlers.

When you’re deciding which formula is right for your baby, you will need to take several factors into consideration. Think about her health and dietary needs, her age, and the cost and preparation time of different formula milks. Our guide to formula milks will help you to choose the right type for your baby. Check out this comprehensive guide on baby milk powders, before you decide on which formula is right for your baby and to help you make sense of the many options out there in Singapore.


What are the different types of formula?

milk powder for babies in singapore

As a summary, there are three different types of formula:
  • cow’s milk-based formula
  • hydrolysed protein formula
  • soya-based formula
It’s most likely your baby can have cow’s milk-based formula, unless there’s a health or dietary reason why she can’t.


Stage 1 vs Stage 2 vs Stage 3 Formula

You might also come across the terms 'stage 1, 2 and 3' for baby milk powders: 
  • Stage 1: Sometimes labelled simply as “infant milk powder”, this is suitable for babies from birth to 6 months. If you are looking for the best milk powder for your newborn in Singapore, you should be looking for milk powders with 'Stage 1' label.
  • Stage 2: Also known as “follow on milk powder”, Stage 2 is for babies from 6 months old and up.
  • Stage 3: Contains more nutrients and calories, for toddlers 1 year old and up.



16 Best Formula Milk for Newborn in Singapore

The sheer number and variety of baby milk powder options by itself is already overwhelming, let alone the prices. We’ll cover the average price of most major milk powder brands in Singapore so you can be less cluttered when it comes to decision making. 

Most of the baby milk powder brands come in various sizes i.e. 400 g, 900 g and 1.8 kg. Therefore, we will show you the average cost on a per 100 gram basis in order to make the comparison clearer. For example, if you are buying a 400 g size, you will need to multiply by 4 in order to get the estimate price. 

For this article, we will cover only milk powder for Stage 1 as newborns refer to babies from birth to 2 months of age. 

The prices were taken from Lazada and Shopee which have some of the best deals for baby milk powders. The list has been arranged in ascending order based on price (from the cheapest to the most expensive). 

Here's the list:

1. Dumex Dulac Stage 1: $1.95 per 100 g > Check Price on Lazada

2. FairPrice Gold Newborn Infant Milk Formula: $3.42 per 100 g > Buy Now

3. Enfamil A+ Stage 1 Infant Milk Formula Lacto Free: $7.45 per 100 g  > Check Price on Lazada

4. Nestle NAN Optipro H.A. Infant Formula Stage 1: $7.5 per 100 g > Check Price on Lazada

5. Similac 5MO Stage 1 Infant Milk Formula: $7.7 per 100 g > Check Price on Lazada

6. Similac Stage 1 Neosure Infant Formula: $7.76 per 100 g > Check Price on Lazada

7. Enfamil A+ 1 Soy Infant Formula: $7.8 per 100 g > Check Price on Lazada

8. Similac AR Stage 1 Thickening Infant Formula: $7.83 per 100 g > Check Price on Lazada

9. Isomil Soy Infant Formula Stage 1 400g: $7.9 per 100 g > Check Price on Lazada

10. Nan Expert Pro Lactose Free Formula: $8 per 100g > Check Price on Lazada

11. Enfamil Pro A+ Stage 1 Infant Milk Formula: $8.2 per 100 g > Check Price on Lazada

12. Nestle Nan Sensitive: $8.44 per 100g > Check Price on Lazada

13. Similac Total Comfort, Stage 1 : $9.5 per 100g > Check Price on Lazada

14. Enfamil A+ Stage 1 Gentlease Infant Milk Formula: $9.7 per 100 g  > Check Price on Lazada

15. Nan AR Special Infant Formula: $9.85 per 100g > Check Price on Lazada

16. Nan CR Special Infant Formula: $9.85 per 100g > Check Price on Lazada


For other baby related products such as baby bottles and diapers, check out our Directory for Baby Products and Maternity Services 2021

Editor's Reminder: Please do not decide based on price alone. Think about your baby's health and dietary needs, her age, and the cost and preparation time of different formula milks. It's best to choose milk formula as recommended by your doctor in Singapore. Every baby is different and unique. If you have already bought them or some of them may have been bought by your friends and relatives, please consult your doctor before giving it to your baby.


Best Infant Formula Singapore 2023 by Major Brand

In Singapore, Lazada offers guarantee on milk formula products. If you have bought a milk formula powder with the guarantee badge (below) but you think that the product is not authentic or has less than 6 months away from expiry (short expiry product), you are entitled to a 200% refund.

Lazada Milk Formula Guarantee
Lazada Milk Formula Guarantee

Enfamil A+


Enfamil A+ is one of the most popular brands for infant formula milk in Singapore.

Aside from DHA and ARA, the Enfamil range also includes Vitamins C and E, choline, which promotes mental function and prebiotics to help good Bifidus bacteria grow.

Manufactured by Mead Johnson, the brand also offers a lactose-free version labelled “Lacto Free” and one for colicky or lactose-intolerant babies called Gentlease, which is made of a gentle protein blend that is easier to digest.

We have listed and compared this brand's milk formula product line here : Enfamil Singapore - Price and Reviews

Enfamil Singapore Price

1. Enfamil Pro A+ Stage 1 Infant Milk Formula : $135.40 (1.65kg) > Check Price on Lazada
Best Formula Milk for Baby 0 - 6 months

2. Enfamil A+ Stage 1 Gentlease Infant Milk Formula : $77.60 (800g) > Check Price on Lazada
Best Formula for Constipation Singapore

3. Enfamil A+ Stage 1 Infant Milk Formula Lacto Free : $29.80 (400g) > Check Price on Lazada
Lactose free baby milk for infants

4. Enfamil A+ Stage 1 Soy Infant Formula : $49.05 (624g) > Check Price on Lazada
Soy milk formula Singapore

Enfamil A+ Stage 1 Reviews: 5.0/5 (more than 100 ratings on Lazada)



Nestle NAN

Nestle NAN Optipro (Optimised Protein Blend) has been quite aggressive in their marketing recently. You may have seen bus ads that state that their formula is backed by “The Science of Mother+”.

We don’t know about that, but Optipro is pretty popular among Singaporean mothers as it is a gentle protein blend that is easy on the stomach. 

Their formula milk, while not the most expensive, is on the higher end. Nestle also makes a budget brand called Lactogen which is more affordable.

Nestle Nan Product Range


a. Nan HA - a hypoallergenic (HA) version which has partially broken down protein. We hear that it tastes more bitter that the usual types, though!

b. Nan CR - A specialized formula for babies with constipation.

c. Nan AR - An anti-regurgitation formula with partially hydrolyzed proteins, probiotics and added starch for a thickened formula. This formula is suitable for babies who suffer from spit up.

d. Nan Lactose Free - Lactose free formula for infants with Lactose Intolerance.

e. Nan Sensitive - This version has the hypoallergenic formula and adds on L.Reuteri probiotics and a reduced lactose content. 


Nestle Nan Price Singapore

5. Nestle NAN Optipro Stage 1 HA Starter Infant Milk Formula : $64 (850g) > Check Price on Lazada (more than 600 customer reviews)
Hypoallergenic Milk Formula Singapore

6. Nan CR Special Infant Formula : $39.40 (400g) > Check Price on Lazada
Best Formula for Constipation Singapore

7. Nan AR Special Infant Formula : $39.40 (400g) > Check Price on Lazada  
Best Formula for Spit Up and Reflux

8. Nan Expert Pro Lactose Free Milk Singapore : $32.20 (400g) > Check Price on Lazada 

9. Nestle Nan Sensitive : $67.55 (800g) > Check Price on Lazada


NTUC FairPrice Singapore

For the no-frills mum, the FairPrice house brand of milk is one of the cheapest at $3.42/100g for Stage 2.

It is manufactured in Australia and New Zealand and contains all the goodness that more expensive brands offer: DHA, AA, lutein, prebiotic-GOS, nucleotides, Vitamin D, calcium and iron.

10. FairPrice Gold Newborn Infant Milk Formula: $30.80 (900g) > Buy Now

FairPrice Gold Stage 2 Follow On Milk Formula: $30.50 (900g) > Buy Now



Abbott Similac

The Similac line of products are scientifically formulated with changing nutritional needs in mind to support overall physical and mental development – be it for mums or for their little one’s. Their products are 100% palm oil free and formulated with a unique vegetable fat blend.

Similac Singapore Product Line


a. Similac Total Comfort. A specialized hypoallergenic formulation featuring 100% partially hydrolysed whey protein. It also contains a TummiCare™ Nutrition System designed for nutrient absorption with a gentle touch. It is also 98% lactose free. This formula is suitable for toddlers with digestive problems like constipation, tummy aches, gas and diarrhea.

b. Similac AR. This formula is thickened with rice starch and fortified with GOS prebiotics. It is suitable for babies with sensitive stomachs that suffer from spit-up, vomiting or acid reflux.

c. Similac Neosure. This formula is specifically designed for premature or low birth weight babies.

d. Isomil. A soy formula suitable for babies who cannot take milk formula.


Similac Infant Formula Price

11. Similac 5MO Stage 1 Infant Milk Formula: $65.40 (850g)  > Check Price on Lazada

12. Similac Total Comfort, Stage 1, Infant formula: $77.90 (820g) > Check Price on Lazada
- Hypoallergenic milk formula Singapore

13. Similac AR Stage 1 Thickening Infant Formula: $66.55 (850g) > Check Price on Lazada
- Best formula for babies who spit up

14. Similac Stage 1 Neosure Infant Formula: $66 (850g)  > Check Price on Lazada
- Baby formula for premature babies

15. Isomil Stage 1 Soy Growing-Up Formula: $31.70 (400g) > Check Price on Lazada
- Soy formula



Dumex Dulac

Why is Dumex Dulac so cheap? This is a frequently asked question in Singapore. According to the Senior Minister of State for Health, Dr Amy Khor, all infant formula milk sold in Singapore, regardless of price, provide adequate nutrition for infants to grow healthily. The Dumex Dulac has an overall rating of 4.9/5 with more than 250 customer reviews on Lazada Singapore.

16. Dumex Dulac Stage 1 Infant Newborn Baby Milk Formula : $14.80 (800g) > Check Price on Lazada




Conclusion

Breastmilk is still nature's perfect baby food. But if you can’t breastfeed, or if you’ve chosen not to, formula milk is the next best thing. Scientists and medical experts have spent years developing high-quality formula milks that will provide your baby with the nutrition he/she needs.

It's an important decision that's not easy to decide. When you’re deciding which formula is right for your baby, you will need to take several factors into consideration. Think about her health and dietary needs, her age, the ingredients and the cost and preparation time of different formula milks. It's best to choose milk formula as your doctor in Singapore recommends, as per baby's requirements. However, it's also important to do your own research in order to better equip yourself with making the right informed decision.



FAQ

1. How often do I need to feed infant formula?

You can start by offering your baby 1 to 2 ounces of infant formula every 2 to 3 hours during their first days of life. This is if your baby is only getting infant formula and no breast milk. Give your baby more if he or she is showing signs of hunger.

Most infant formula-fed newborns will feed 8 to 12 times in 24 hours. Talk with your child’s doctor or nurse about how much infant formula is right for your baby. (Source)


2. How do you know if your baby needs a different formula?

- Excessive Spit Up
- Extra Fussiness Following Feedings
- Bloody Stool
- Severe Constipation
- Allergy Symptoms. They can show symptoms either immediately following feeding or up to 10 days later. For instance: eczema or skin rashes, loose stools (which may contain blood), vomiting or gagging, refusing bottles, wheezing, swelling, hives.


3. What formula is good for constipation and gas?

a. Protein Hydrolysate Formula
In all standard formulations, the protein is not processed at all. They’re exactly the same size as when they first came from the cow which may cause constipation in some babies.

Protein hydrolysate formulas are meant for babies who don't tolerate cow's milk or soy-based formulas.

This type of formula are nutritionally the same as standard formula milk, but it contains protein that's been broken down (hydrolyzed) — partially or extensively — into smaller sizes than are those in cow's milk.


b. A2 Milk Formula 
Researchers believe that A2 is the more natural variant of beta casein. Some studies found that people who only drank milk from cows that produce A2 milk had less bloating and indigestion, leading some to believe that A2 milk is a healthier alternative to regular milk.


c. Goat Milk Formula
Goat Milk formula may be a better formula for children with constipation; this is because goat formula contains high levels of prebiotic oligosaccharides. 

Moreover, It’s possible that goat milk is easier on the stomach. This is because goat milk has fewer micro-proteins than cow milk, which makes it easier for certain people to digest. 

Parents can change their child’s formula from cow’s milk to goat’s milk, however, during the transition, your child may experience certain side effects. And if your children have just stopped breastfeeding and you choose to give them goat’s milk, best to do it under doctor’s supervision.


4. What are the causes of constipation in children?

Constipation may be caused by..
- Ignoring the urge to use the toilet
- Not eating enough fiber
- Not drinking enough fluids
- Switching to solid foods or from breast milk to formula (infants)
- Changes in situation, such as travel, starting school, or stressful events

Medical causes of constipation may include..
- Diseases of the bowel, such as those that affect the bowel muscles or nerves
- Other medical conditions that affect the bowel
- Use of certain medicines


5. What to do after your baby throws up

- Rest their stomach. Keep your baby from eating or drinking for 30 to 60 minutes after vomiting so that their stomach has time to recover.

- Give them fluids. after 3o minutes, start by giving your baby small amounts (0.5 oz or less) of fluid every 5 to 10 minutes. If your baby vomits the fluid out, wait another 30 minutes. Then start again with small amounts of fluid every 5 to 10 minutes. Use water, breast milk or a clear, noncarbonated liquid.

- Medicines. If your child has a fever, ask your pediatrician for the appropriate medication.


6. Difference between Newborn vs Infant vs Toddler Formula

a. Infant Formula vs Stage 1 Formula Milk

- Infant formula resembles breast milk more

- Infant formula's only form of carbohydrate is lactose 
- Stage 1 formula contains starch in addition to lactose

- Infant formula is usually watery, has less protein content, and is easier for babies to digest
- Stage 1 formula is creamier than infant milk and will keep your baby full longer

- Both formulas can be used from birth onwards.
- Both formulas can be used until the baby stops bottle feeding.

b. Stage 1 vs Stage 2 Formula Milk

- Stage 1 and Stage 2 formula milk have similar nutrients. The main difference is the ratio of casein and whey proteins, which are both derived from milk.

- Stage 1 formulas are whey dominant just like breast milk which has a whey to casein ratio of about 60:40. Whey digests quickly compared to casein.

Stage 2 formulas are similar to Stage 1 formulas but has more casein, with a whey to casein ratio of 20:80. Casein digests slower, keeping babies full for longer.

- Stage 2 formulas are often creamier than Stage 1 formula and has more energy, making it more satiating for babies older than 6 months.

Stage 2 formula is mainly appropriate when your child starts eating baby food. It can be used to supplement baby food if your baby is still hungry after drinking Stage 1 milk. 

- Stage 2 formula can be used starting from month 7 (earliest) until the baby stops bottle feeding. 


c. Stage 2 and Stage 3 vs Stage 4 Formula Milk

- Stage 3 formula usually has more starch and energy contents than Stage 2 formula, making babies full for longer.

- Stage 3 formula is usually not as micro and macronutrient dense as Stage 1 or Stage 2 formula milk, as it is considered as a weaning formula.


About Stage 3 Formula Milk
Stage 3 formula is appropriate for toddlers 12 months or older. 

It shouldn't be used as a substitute for a healthy diet with fruits, vegetables, and proteins. This formula milk should be a part of your baby's diet, and shouldn't replace solid foods.

It may not be necessary for toddlers who are already eating a lot of healthy foods. However, if the child cannot consume enough normal food, stage 3 formula could be useful. 

As always, consult a child specialist for specific nutrition advice.



All Milk Brands in Shopee Singapore

All Infant Formulas 

All Milk Formulas for 1 Year Old and Above


Anmum / Materna for pregnant mums, Lacta for breastfeeding mums, Essential Stage 3 and 4 Toddler Formula

Bellamy's Milk Formula Singapore / Organic, Stage 1 to 4, Pregnancy Milk

Bubs Organic Milk Formula Singapore / Organic, Grass fed or goat milk options, Stage 1 to 3

- Gentlease for digestion problems / Post discharge for newborns 
- Enfamil AR (anti regurgitation) for acid reflux and spit up
-  Lactofree lactose free / Nutramigen hypoallergenic lactose free

Enfagrow Milk Formula Singapore / Stage 3 to Stage 5, Has Gentlease Option


Dutch Lady / 123, 456, Maxgro

- Comfort Next for constipation / AR thickened formula to reduce spit up 
- HA hydrolyzed formula for cow's milk protein allergy / Has Frisomum pregnancy and lactation formula

Holle Milk Formula Singapore / Organic + Organic Goat Milk Option, Stage 1 to 3

HIPP Milk Formula Singapore / Organic, Combiotik option has prebiotics, Stage 1 to 4

Isomil Milk Formula Singapore / Soy Formula, Stage 1 and Stage 3

Karihome Milk Formula Singapore / Goat milk, Stage 1 to 4 

Kendamil Milk Formula Singapore / Organic + Goat Milk Option, Stage 1 to 3



Nature One Dairy Milk Formula Singapore / Standard, Premium (More DHA, ARA, GOS, Lutein) and Organic Formulas, Stage 1 to 4, + Pregnancy formula

Nestle Nan / Optipro, Supremepro, HA (Hypoallergenic), Sensitive, Lactose free

Pediasure Milk Formula Singapore / For children 1-12 years old, Has sucrose free option

Wyeth S26 Milk Formula Singapore / Stage 1 to 4, Ascenda for growth (1 to 7 years old)

Similac Milk Formula Singapore / Total Comfort for sensitive stomachs, RS for anti regurgitation, Neosure for premature babies, Has organic option, Stage 1 to 4

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