Guide on How to Buy an Infant Formula in Singapore 2023
The infant formula aisle can be an overwhelming place. With so many choices, how do you know which formula is right for your baby? Our guide can help you make sense of the options.
You may also want to consult with your baby's doctor. She can offer guidance on the best formula for your baby and your family's lifestyle. Other things to consider when choosing formula: the form it comes in, the type of protein and carbohydrate it provides, and any additional ingredients that are included.
Source
The convenience of ready-to-use formula comes at a price – it costs about 20 percent more per ounce than powdered formula. The containers also take up more storage space in your cupboard and more space in the landfill (unless you can recycle the containers).
Once opened, ready-to-use formula has a short lifespan – it must be used within 48 hours. Also, because liquid formula is often darker than powdered formula, many moms complain that it's more likely to stain clothes.
Powdered formula takes more time to prepare than other types of formula, and you must follow the directions exactly, but it has a one-month shelf life after the container has been opened. As with liquid concentrate formula, you can mix up just the right amount – as much or as little as you want – whenever you need it. This is especially helpful if you're a breastfeeding mom who may only need a supplemental bottle occasionally.
Most formula available today has cow's milk as the main ingredient. The overwhelming majority of formula-fed and formula-supplemented babies do best with this type of formula because it has just the right balance of protein, carbohydrate, and fat.
The milk protein in formula is significantly altered to make it easier to digest. Your baby won't be able to digest regular cow's milk until after his first birthday.
The proteins in extensively hydrolyzed formulas are completely broken down into their building blocks (amino acids), which allow them to be easily absorbed. Extensively hydrolyzed formulas are considered hypoallergenic and are used for babies who have a cow's milk protein allergy.
Partially hydrolyzed formulas are not hypoallergenic, so don't use one if your baby has a milk protein allergy or if you suspect she may have one. The pediatrician might recommend trying this type of formula if, for example, your baby always seems fussy after feedings – which might indicate trouble digesting standard cow's milk formula.
Hydrolyzed formulas are also recommended when a baby has trouble absorbing nutrients (a common problem for preemies).
These formulas are made with a plant protein that, like the protein in cow's milk, is modified for easy digestion. Although soy-based formulas are a good option for vegan families, they're not recommended for preterm infants weighing less than 1,800 grams (about 4 pounds), and there are only a few medical reasons for using them. These include:
Formula for premature and low-birth-weight babies: These formulas often contain more calories and protein, as well as a more easily absorbed type of fat called medium-chain triglycerides (MCT). How much MCT is in these formulas varies by brand. Your baby's doctor will help you select the one that will help your baby gain just the right amount of weight.
But according to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), no research to date has proven organic milk to be healthier for children than regular milk. Parents may want to consider whether organic formula is worth the higher price.
"More often than not, specialty formulas are substantially more expensive and not significantly different in key nutritional value," says KT Park, a pediatric gastroenterologist at Stanford's Lucile Packard Children's Hospital. "Babies undergo tremendous adaptation of their gastrointestinal tract during the first six months of life, which is normal. There are very few scenarios in which infants would require the more expensive formulas."
If you think your child might benefit from a specialty formula, ask your child's doctor about it before you stock up.
a. Carbohydrate:
It is lactose-based, meaning it is made from cow's milk, and can be used as a sole source of nutrition for the baby or as a supplement to breast milk.
Enfamil Pro A+ Stage 1 Infant Formula (1.65kg) > Check Price on Lazada
Enfamil Pro A+ Stage 1 Infant Formula (800g) > Check Price on Shopee
Enfamil Pro A+ Stage 1 Infant Formula (1.65kg) > Check Price on Shopee
Out of stock? Find on Shopee Singapore
Enfamil A+ Stage 1 Gentlease Infant Formula is a lactose based baby formula designed for newborns and infants up to 12 months of age. Enfamil Gentlease is easy on the baby's digestive system and may help with symptoms such as fussiness and gas.
Enfamil A+ Stage 1 Gentlease Infant Formula (800g) > Check Price on Lazada
Enfamil A+ Stage 1 Gentlease Infant Formula (800g) > Check Price on Shopee
Enfamil A+ Stage 1 Post Discharge Infant Formula (400g) > Check Price on Lazada
Unlike other formula brands that contain cow's milk proteins, Nutramigen uses a hydrolyzed protein that is broken down into smaller pieces, making it easier to digest and less likely to cause an allergic reaction. Additionally, it contains added nutrients to support growth and development.
Enfamil Nutramigen LGG Stage 1 (400g) > Check Price on Lazada
Enfamil Nutramigen LGG Stage 1 (400g) > Check Price on Shopee
The Similac brand has more than 3,000 ratings and is one of the top 5 best sellers in the baby and toddler formula category of Amazon Best Sellers. Similac has one of the widest range of milk powders in Singapore.
Similac Total Comfort is designed to be gentler on the tummy. It contains partially hydrolyzed protein, which has been broken down into smaller pieces to make it easier to digest, and a prebiotic blend to support digestive health.
Similac Neosure is a specialized infant formula designed for premature babies or low birth weight infants. It has higher levels of nutrients, including protein, iron, and other essential vitamins and minerals, to support the growth and development of premature infants who have unique nutritional needs.
Similac AR (Anti-Regurgitation) is a specialized formula designed to reduce spit-up in infants. It contains a thicker, more viscous texture that is designed to stay in the stomach longer and reduce the amount of formula that is brought up.
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.
Common problems – like spitting up, gas, and colic – are usually unrelated to your baby's diet. Most of the time, these problems have to do with your baby's immature gastrointestinal tract, not what he's eating.
Sticking to the same formula for a while can also make it easier for your baby's doctor to figure out if there's anything else that might be causing symptoms. So ask the doctor to recommend a formula and try it for at least a couple weeks. After that, if your baby's still having trouble, talk to the doctor about switching.
You may also want to consult with your baby's doctor. She can offer guidance on the best formula for your baby and your family's lifestyle. Other things to consider when choosing formula: the form it comes in, the type of protein and carbohydrate it provides, and any additional ingredients that are included.
What are the different forms of formula?
Formulas come in three forms: ready-to-use, liquid concentrate, and powdered.a. Ready-to-use formula
This is definitely the most convenient formula type – no mixing or measuring required. Just open and serve. It's the kind of formula that hospitals often give to newborns. It's hygienic and especially helpful when you don't know whether you'll have access to safe water.The convenience of ready-to-use formula comes at a price – it costs about 20 percent more per ounce than powdered formula. The containers also take up more storage space in your cupboard and more space in the landfill (unless you can recycle the containers).
Once opened, ready-to-use formula has a short lifespan – it must be used within 48 hours. Also, because liquid formula is often darker than powdered formula, many moms complain that it's more likely to stain clothes.
b. Liquid concentrate formula
This type requires mixing equal parts of water and formula concentrate. Compared to ready-to-use formula, concentrate is less expensive and takes up less storage space. Compared to powdered formula, it's a little easier to prepare but more expensive.c. Powdered formula
As the most economical and the most environmentally friendly formula option, powdered formula takes up the least amount of space in transport, in your pantry, and in your trash can.Powdered formula takes more time to prepare than other types of formula, and you must follow the directions exactly, but it has a one-month shelf life after the container has been opened. As with liquid concentrate formula, you can mix up just the right amount – as much or as little as you want – whenever you need it. This is especially helpful if you're a breastfeeding mom who may only need a supplemental bottle occasionally.
What are the different types of formula?
a. Cow's-milk-based formula
The milk protein in formula is significantly altered to make it easier to digest. Your baby won't be able to digest regular cow's milk until after his first birthday.
b. Partially and extensively hydrolyzed formulas
In these formulas, the protein is broken down into small parts (partially hydrolyzed) or even smaller parts (extensively hydrolyzed) that are easier for your baby to digest than larger protein molecules.The proteins in extensively hydrolyzed formulas are completely broken down into their building blocks (amino acids), which allow them to be easily absorbed. Extensively hydrolyzed formulas are considered hypoallergenic and are used for babies who have a cow's milk protein allergy.
Partially hydrolyzed formulas are not hypoallergenic, so don't use one if your baby has a milk protein allergy or if you suspect she may have one. The pediatrician might recommend trying this type of formula if, for example, your baby always seems fussy after feedings – which might indicate trouble digesting standard cow's milk formula.
Hydrolyzed formulas are also recommended when a baby has trouble absorbing nutrients (a common problem for preemies).
c. Soy-based formula
- Transient lactose deficiency: a temporary lactose intolerance caused by a gastrointestinal infection
- Immunoglobulin E (IgE)-associated allergy to cow's milk: an allergy to cow's milk protein that causes immediate symptoms, including wheezing, runny nose, hives, and rashes; however, many babies with IgE-associated milk allergy are also allergic to soy protein, so don't give soy formulas to your child unless your doctor recommends it
- Galactosemia: a rare inherited disorder in which the body is unable to break down a milk sugar (galactose) to produce energy; most states test for galactosemia during newborn screening tests
- Congenital lactase deficiency: an extremely rare inherited disorder in which a baby is born with very little or none of the enzyme that breaks down the sugar lactose found in milk, causing life-threatening lactose intolerance symptoms
d. Lactose-free formula
Lactose intolerance or an inability to digest lactose – the sugar naturally found in milk – is rare in infants. If your baby is lactose intolerant, his doctor may recommend a soy formula or another formula in which the lactose is replaced with a different sugar, such as corn syrup.Formula for premature and low-birth-weight babies: These formulas often contain more calories and protein, as well as a more easily absorbed type of fat called medium-chain triglycerides (MCT). How much MCT is in these formulas varies by brand. Your baby's doctor will help you select the one that will help your baby gain just the right amount of weight.
e. Human milk fortifier
This product is used to enrich the nutrition of breastfed babies who have special needs. It's designed to be mixed with breast milk and should not be fed as a stand-alone formula.f. Metabolic formula
If your baby has a disease that requires very specific nutrition, he may need one of the specially developed metabolic formulas.g. Organic formula
This type of formula allows parents to limit their baby's exposure to herbicides, pesticides, and other chemicals. Formulas labeled "organic" must be certified by the U.S. Department of Agriculture.But according to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), no research to date has proven organic milk to be healthier for children than regular milk. Parents may want to consider whether organic formula is worth the higher price.
h. Other specialty formulas
New formulas come out all the time that claim to relieve problems such as colic or acid reflux. These formulas have a protein ratio similar to breast milk and vary slightly in composition from regular formula, but some experts say they may not be any better."More often than not, specialty formulas are substantially more expensive and not significantly different in key nutritional value," says KT Park, a pediatric gastroenterologist at Stanford's Lucile Packard Children's Hospital. "Babies undergo tremendous adaptation of their gastrointestinal tract during the first six months of life, which is normal. There are very few scenarios in which infants would require the more expensive formulas."
If you think your child might benefit from a specialty formula, ask your child's doctor about it before you stock up.
What are the main ingredients in infant formula?
There are five main components to formula: carbohydrate, protein, fat, vitamins, and minerals. What makes one brand of formula different from the next are the specific carbohydrates and proteins (as well as any additional nutrients in smaller quantities). For example, casein and whey are two kinds of cow's milk proteins found in various proportions in different brands of cow's-milk-based formula.
It's very easy to get confused by all of the items listed on the ingredient label. Here's how to decipher the maze of ingredients and a comparison to the ones found in breast milk:
It's very easy to get confused by all of the items listed on the ingredient label. Here's how to decipher the maze of ingredients and a comparison to the ones found in breast milk:
a. Carbohydrate:
Lactose is the main carbohydrate in both breast milk and formulas made from cow's milk. Corn maltodextrin is sometimes used as a secondary source of carbohydrate in formula. Lactose-free, soy, and special formulas contain one or more of the following carbohydrates: sucrose, corn maltodextrin, modified cornstarch, or corn syrup solids.
b. Protein:
Breast milk contains about 60 percent whey and 40 percent casein. Most formulas have similar protein ratio. Others contain 100 percent whey.
Soy formulas contain soy protein isolate – a processed soybean ingredient that is almost pure protein (at least 90 percent). Some brands use partially hydrolyzed soy protein (protein that is partially broken down) to allow for easier digestion.
Soy formulas contain soy protein isolate – a processed soybean ingredient that is almost pure protein (at least 90 percent). Some brands use partially hydrolyzed soy protein (protein that is partially broken down) to allow for easier digestion.
c. Fat:
Breast milk contains a blend of monounsaturated, polyunsaturated, and saturated fat. Formulas use a variety of oils to match the fat makeup of breast milk. They include soy oil, coconut oil, palm or palm olein oil, and high oleic sunflower oil.
Although palm and palm olein oil are widely used, research has shown that these fats can reduce absorption of fat and calcium. This would mean that your baby would not absorb as much fat and calcium as she would from a formula that doesn't contain this oil.
Medium-chain triglycerides are a form of fat that require less effort to digest and are more easily absorbed. They're used in special formulas for premature infants and for infants who have trouble digesting or absorbing nutrients.
The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved the addition of two long-chain fatty acids to formula: DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) and ARA (arachidonic acid), which are now standard ingredients in formula. Both of these substances are found in breast milk when the mother's diet is adequate, and both are important for brain and vision development.
Babies get DHA and ARA from their mother during the third trimester, but the transfer is cut short when a baby is born prematurely. All babies need a steady supply of both substances throughout their first year.
Numerous studies support the supplementation of formula with DHA and ARA. While there aren't any long-term studies confirming the safety of these substances, there's no evidence suggesting that these additives are harmful to babies, either.
The AAP hasn't taken a position on whether DHA and ARA should be added to formula, but the organization does point out that they're believed to be important in brain and eye development.
Although palm and palm olein oil are widely used, research has shown that these fats can reduce absorption of fat and calcium. This would mean that your baby would not absorb as much fat and calcium as she would from a formula that doesn't contain this oil.
Medium-chain triglycerides are a form of fat that require less effort to digest and are more easily absorbed. They're used in special formulas for premature infants and for infants who have trouble digesting or absorbing nutrients.
The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved the addition of two long-chain fatty acids to formula: DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) and ARA (arachidonic acid), which are now standard ingredients in formula. Both of these substances are found in breast milk when the mother's diet is adequate, and both are important for brain and vision development.
Babies get DHA and ARA from their mother during the third trimester, but the transfer is cut short when a baby is born prematurely. All babies need a steady supply of both substances throughout their first year.
Numerous studies support the supplementation of formula with DHA and ARA. While there aren't any long-term studies confirming the safety of these substances, there's no evidence suggesting that these additives are harmful to babies, either.
The AAP hasn't taken a position on whether DHA and ARA should be added to formula, but the organization does point out that they're believed to be important in brain and eye development.
d. Vitamins and minerals:
Most words on the ingredient label describe vitamins and minerals. These words can be hard to figure out – for example, ferrous sulfate is iron, sodium ascorbate is vitamin C, and calcium pantothenate is vitamin B5.
The AAP recommends that all healthy babies who aren't breastfed exclusively be given iron-fortified formula until their first birthday. It's important that babies receive the minimum recommended amount of iron (0.27 mg daily for infants 0 to 6 months; 11 mg daily for babies 7 to 12 months) to prevent iron-deficiency anemia.
Iron is vital to the blood's ability to circulate oxygen, which all of the body's cells need to function properly. Studies have shown that getting enough iron in the first year of life is important for brain development. A baby's iron stores are established in the third trimester, so premature babies need extra help in getting plenty of iron.
Most formulas contain at least 4 mg of iron per liter, although "low-iron" formulas are still on the shelves. These were developed years ago in response to the misconception that the iron in formula causes constipation. But the dose of iron in formula is too small to cause constipation. The AAP would like these low-iron formulas to be discontinued or labeled as nutritionally inadequate.
e. Nucleotides:
The AAP recommends that all healthy babies who aren't breastfed exclusively be given iron-fortified formula until their first birthday. It's important that babies receive the minimum recommended amount of iron (0.27 mg daily for infants 0 to 6 months; 11 mg daily for babies 7 to 12 months) to prevent iron-deficiency anemia.
Iron is vital to the blood's ability to circulate oxygen, which all of the body's cells need to function properly. Studies have shown that getting enough iron in the first year of life is important for brain development. A baby's iron stores are established in the third trimester, so premature babies need extra help in getting plenty of iron.
Most formulas contain at least 4 mg of iron per liter, although "low-iron" formulas are still on the shelves. These were developed years ago in response to the misconception that the iron in formula causes constipation. But the dose of iron in formula is too small to cause constipation. The AAP would like these low-iron formulas to be discontinued or labeled as nutritionally inadequate.
e. Nucleotides:
These are the building blocks of DNA and RNA, naturally present in breast milk. They have several functions and may aid in immune system development. Different brands of formula have different amounts of nucleotides added.
f. Rice starch:
f. Rice starch:
Rice starch is added to "anti-regurgitation" formulas. Your doctor may recommend this type of formula to alleviate your baby's acid reflux.
g. Dietary fiber:
g. Dietary fiber:
Soy fiber is added to soy formula for the temporary treatment of diarrhea in babies who are older than 6 months and in toddlers. The only formula available containing fiber is Similac Expert Care for Diarrhea, which is clinically shown to reduce the duration of diarrhea.
h. Amino acids:
h. Amino acids:
Amino acids such as taurine, methionine, and carnitine are added to soy formulas, and sometimes to cow's-milk formulas, to match the amino acids in breast milk.
i. Probiotics and prebiotics:
i. Probiotics and prebiotics:
Probiotics are a type of live, "friendly" bacteria that may help prevent intestinal infections, inflammation, and diarrhea that can occur with the use of antibiotics. Prebiotics are oligosaccharides (carbohydrates found in human milk) that help boost the numbers of probiotic bacteria in the gut.
The AAP says some studies show that probiotics and prebiotics can play a role in keeping your child's digestive system healthy. But they can also be unsafe for babies with compromised immune systems and certain other medical conditions, so it's best to check with your baby's doctor before using these formulas. Any benefit from probiotics and prebiotics goes away once your baby stops using them.
The AAP says some studies show that probiotics and prebiotics can play a role in keeping your child's digestive system healthy. But they can also be unsafe for babies with compromised immune systems and certain other medical conditions, so it's best to check with your baby's doctor before using these formulas. Any benefit from probiotics and prebiotics goes away once your baby stops using them.
Best Infant Formula Singapore 2023
There are many different brands for baby or infant milk formulas in Singapore. We have trawled through the reviews, Google search results and milk powder comparison information available on blogs and forums, and shortlisted the best for you. Here are the best baby milk powders you can buy online in Singapore today.1. Enfamil A+
Read more - Enfamil Singapore - Price and Reviews 2023
Enfamil A+ is one of the most popular brands for infant formula milk in Singapore. It has generally received positive reviews from parents and caregivers, with many reporting that it has helped with digestive issues and supported their baby's growth and development. Some parents have also reported that their babies have shown a preference for the taste of Enfamil formula over other brands.
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 “Nutramigen” and one for colicky or lactose-intolerant babies called Gentlease, which is made of a gentle protein blend that is easier to digest.
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 “Nutramigen” and one for colicky or lactose-intolerant babies called Gentlease, which is made of a gentle protein blend that is easier to digest.
a. Enfamil Pro A+
Enfamil Pro-A+ Stage 1 is a milk powder designed for infants from birth to 6 months. It is formulated with a blend of essential nutrients and provides complete and balanced nutrition for infants, including iron, DHA, and choline to support brain and eye development.It is lactose-based, meaning it is made from cow's milk, and can be used as a sole source of nutrition for the baby or as a supplement to breast milk.
Enfamil Pro A+ Stage 1 Infant Formula (1.65kg) > Check Price on Lazada
Enfamil Pro A+ Stage 1 Infant Formula (800g) > Check Price on Shopee
Enfamil Pro A+ Stage 1 Infant Formula (1.65kg) > Check Price on Shopee
Out of stock? Find on Shopee Singapore
b. Enfamil A+ Stage 1 Gentlease Infant Formula
Enfamil A+ Stage 1 Gentlease Infant Formula is a lactose based baby formula designed for newborns and infants up to 12 months of age. Enfamil Gentlease is easy on the baby's digestive system and may help with symptoms such as fussiness and gas.
Enfamil A+ Stage 1 Gentlease Infant Formula (800g) > Check Price on Lazada
Enfamil A+ Stage 1 Gentlease Infant Formula (800g) > Check Price on Shopee
Out of stock? Find on Shopee Singapore
c. Enfamil A+ Stage 1 Post Discharge Infant Formula
Enfamil A+ Stage 1 Post Discharge Infant Formula is a type of baby formula that is specially formulated for newborns and infants who have been recently discharged from the hospital. It is designed to provide the necessary nutrients and support for growth and development during this important stage of life.Enfamil A+ Stage 1 Post Discharge Infant Formula (400g) > Check Price on Lazada
d. Enfamil Nutramigen
Enfamil Nutramigen is a hypoallergenic formula that is specially formulated for infants who have cow's milk protein allergies or lactose intolerance.Unlike other formula brands that contain cow's milk proteins, Nutramigen uses a hydrolyzed protein that is broken down into smaller pieces, making it easier to digest and less likely to cause an allergic reaction. Additionally, it contains added nutrients to support growth and development.
Enfamil Nutramigen LGG Stage 1 (400g) > Check Price on Lazada
Enfamil Nutramigen LGG Stage 1 (400g) > Check Price on Shopee
2. Abbott Similac
Similac Total Comfort is designed to be gentler on the tummy. It contains partially hydrolyzed protein, which has been broken down into smaller pieces to make it easier to digest, and a prebiotic blend to support digestive health.
Similac Neosure is a specialized infant formula designed for premature babies or low birth weight infants. It has higher levels of nutrients, including protein, iron, and other essential vitamins and minerals, to support the growth and development of premature infants who have unique nutritional needs.
Similac AR (Anti-Regurgitation) is a specialized formula designed to reduce spit-up in infants. It contains a thicker, more viscous texture that is designed to stay in the stomach longer and reduce the amount of formula that is brought up.
- Similac® Total Comfort, Stage 1, Infant formula, 0-12 months, 820g > Check Price on Lazada / Check Price on Shopee
- Similac® Stage 1 Baby Milk Powder Formula 2'-FL 1.8kg > Check Price on Lazada / Check Price on Shopee
- Similac NeoSure with 2'FL Special Infant Milk Formula Stage 1, 850g > Check Price on Lazada / Check Price on Shopee
- Similac® AR Stage 1 Thickening Infant Formula 850g > Check Price on Lazada / Check Price on Shopee
Out of stock? Find Similac Stage 1 Milk Formulas on Lazada Singapore
- Dumex Dulac Stage 1 Infant Newborn Baby Milk Formula (800g) > Check Price on Lazada / Check Price on Shopee
Sources:
- How to Buy Baby Formula (BabyCenter.com)
- Caring for Your Baby and Young Child: Birth to Age 5, 6th Edition (Copyright © 2015 American Academy of Pediatrics)
- Best Milk Powders for Babies in Singapore
FAQ
1. Are generic brands nutritionally adequate?
Yes. In US, generic brands of formula must meet the FDA's requirements for nutrients in formula, so in many instances, the only difference between generic and brand name is the price. (The FDA's requirements for infant formula include minimum amounts for 29 nutrients and maximum amounts for nine nutrients.)
In Singapore (according to the Straits Times), all infant formula sold in Singapore must comply with the requirements of the Agri-Food and Veterinary Authority's Sale of Food Act. This includes the minimum and maximum nutrient composition in an infant formula. Most of the standard milk formulas are developed to be closest to breast milk.
"The calorie content and nutritional composition, such as protein, fat and carbohydrates, are more or less similar across all brands," said Associate Professor Marion Aw, a senior consultant at the division of paediatric gastroenterology, hepatology and nutrition at National University Hospital.
Whether you're buying generic or name brand, take a minute to look at the label before you purchase the formula. Specific ingredients do vary from brand to brand, and this can make a difference to your baby.
In Singapore (according to the Straits Times), all infant formula sold in Singapore must comply with the requirements of the Agri-Food and Veterinary Authority's Sale of Food Act. This includes the minimum and maximum nutrient composition in an infant formula. Most of the standard milk formulas are developed to be closest to breast milk.
"The calorie content and nutritional composition, such as protein, fat and carbohydrates, are more or less similar across all brands," said Associate Professor Marion Aw, a senior consultant at the division of paediatric gastroenterology, hepatology and nutrition at National University Hospital.
Whether you're buying generic or name brand, take a minute to look at the label before you purchase the formula. Specific ingredients do vary from brand to brand, and this can make a difference to your baby.
2. Should I try lots of different types of formula?
In general, it's best to stick with one type and resist the urge to switch, even if your baby seems like he's not digesting the formula well at first.Common problems – like spitting up, gas, and colic – are usually unrelated to your baby's diet. Most of the time, these problems have to do with your baby's immature gastrointestinal tract, not what he's eating.
Sticking to the same formula for a while can also make it easier for your baby's doctor to figure out if there's anything else that might be causing symptoms. So ask the doctor to recommend a formula and try it for at least a couple weeks. After that, if your baby's still having trouble, talk to the doctor about switching.
3. Should I follow the "use by" date?
Yes. The "use by" date tells you when the nutritional quality of the formula will begin to decline. Giving your baby formula with an expired "use by" date can prevent her from getting the full nutritional benefits, so it's always best to buy formula in quantities that you're sure you'll use up by the time it expires.
4. Can I make my own formula?
Doctors strongly advise against it. If you make your own formula, it would be impossible to include all the ingredients in the right amounts for your baby. Homemade formula could lead to failure to gain weight, malnourishment, or even death.
5. What if I'm still not sure which formula is right for my baby?
If you're still overwhelmed by the options, or you're considering switching formulas, talk with your baby's doctor. He'll consider your baby's health, age, and nutritional needs, and make an appropriate recommendation.
The doctor can also monitor your baby's reactions and investigate any symptoms. Don't try to diagnose an allergy or sensitivity on your own. You could miss a serious underlying condition or prevent your baby from getting adequate nutrition.
The doctor can also monitor your baby's reactions and investigate any symptoms. Don't try to diagnose an allergy or sensitivity on your own. You could miss a serious underlying condition or prevent your baby from getting adequate nutrition.
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