Choosing The Right Formula For Your Baby: What Makes A Great Formula & Ingredients Parents Should Be Mindful Of

For parents who choose to formula feed—whether exclusively or as a supplement to breast milk—the process of selecting the best formula can feel overwhelming. With so many options on the market, it’s important to understand what makes a great formula and which ingredients are best to be mindful of. This guide will help you make an educated decision on which infant formula is right for your baby so you can feel confident about nourishing your child. 

Formula Ingredients to Be Mindful of 

When selecting a formula, it’s helpful to be aware of certain ingredients that may be better to limit where possible. However, ingredient lists can be confusing and hard to decipher. It’s important to note that not all the ingredients listed below can be completely avoided, and sometimes choosing a formula involves trade-offs. It is also important to choose the formula that works best for your baby. Your baby may feel their best on a formula that does not tick all these boxes, and yet that formula would be your baby’s best option. Think of bio-individuality: there’s not a one-size-fits-all approach to health and nutrition! Each person – and baby – has their own specific nutritive and health needs. 

My intention in sharing this information is to provide parents with knowledge so they can make the best decision for their baby’s unique needs, not to contribute to stress or guilt if your chosen formula contains some of these ingredients – most do! 

1. Non-Organic Ingredients

Organic formulas are preferred by many parents because they must be free from certain pesticides, genetically modified organisms (GMOs), and artificial colors or flavors (1).  

To learn more about why I choose organic ingredients for my formulations, read this article: The Risks of Glyphosate — And Why We’re A Glyphosate Tested Company 

2. Soy

Soy formulas can be a necessary and beneficial option for babies with dairy allergies, and if your baby requires a soy-based formula, please rest assured that you are making the best choice for your baby’s unique needs.  

If your baby tolerates dairy-based formulas well, you may consider opting for one without soy oils or lecithin, as these ingredients have been linked to potential concerns such as higher levels of phytoestrogens (2) and aluminum contamination (3).  

However, if your baby does not tolerate dairy-based formula and does best on a soy-based formula, I tend to prefer Similac Soy Isomil because it does not contain palm olein oil (more on this below), which may improve calcium absorption, it includes prebiotics to support digestive health, and it contains lutein, an important antioxidant for eye development. 

To learn more about food allergies, read this article: What Is FPIES (Food Protein Induced Enterocolitis Syndrome)? How Is It Treated? 

3. Palm Oil

Palm oil is added to formula to mimic the palmitic acid found in breast milk, but it has been shown to reduce calcium and fat absorption (4). As such, palm oil is often placed on the “avoid list.” However, the role of palm oil in formula digestion is complex. Palmitic acid, a critical fatty acid, makes up about 20-25% of breast milk’s fat profile (5), and formula manufacturers aim to replicate this composition. 

The structure of triglycerides—fats with three fatty acids—can influence how well they are absorbed. When palmitic acid is positioned at the first and third positions of a triglyceride, as in some standard formula fat blends, it can bind with calcium in the gut, forming “calcium soaps” (6). This process reduces calcium and fat absorption and can contribute to harder stools. However, formulas that use a fat blend with beta palmitate, where palmitic acid occupies the middle position of the triglyceride, do not form calcium soaps (7). Instead, this structure supports better absorption of both calcium and fatty acids and may support softer stool consistency. 

To determine whether a formula contains beta palmitate, check the ingredient list for terms like “structured lipids” or “high-2 palmitate acid.” Some brands explicitly state their use of beta palmitate or milk fat blends designed for easier digestion. If in doubt, reaching out to the manufacturer for clarification can provide additional insight. 

Bottom line: Some infants are able to easily digest palm oils – if your child is on a palm oil containing formula and is thriving, there’s no need to switch. But if hard stools are a recurring issue, experimenting with a different formula is a good idea. 

4. Carrageenan

Carrageenan does not contribute to the nutrient content of the formula and rather is added as a thickener or texture enhancing agent. Carrageenan has been linked to potential digestive inflammation (8). The European Union has banned carrageenan from infant formula (9), but some U.S. brands still use it, particularly in ready-to-feed formulas.  

5. Chemical Processed Synthetic Nutrients

Some baby formulas may contain synthetic versions of nutrients such as lutein, lycopene, taurine, and L-carnitine, which may be extracted using solvents like hexane or toluene (10). While these nutrients naturally occur in breast milk, there is sometimes concern about the use of the synthetic versions of these nutrients. Unfortunately, it can be challenging to determine if a formula contains synthetic nutrients, as labeling is not always straightforward. If avoiding synthetic nutrients is a priority, looking for brands that explicitly state their sourcing may be helpful.  

6. Skim Milk

Many formulas use skim milk combined with vegetable oils to reach the necessary fat content. However, whole milk contains milk fat globule membrane (MFGM), which has been linked to brain and immune development (11). Brands like Bobbie now offer whole-milk options. 

7. Non-Lactose Sweeteners

Breast milk is naturally sweet due to lactose, which is the primary carbohydrate (12). Many U.S. formulas use alternative sweeteners, like corn syrup solids, maltodextrin, glucose syrup, or brown rice syrup, to provide carbohydrates. While these ingredients can help meet an infant’s energy needs, some parents prefer to choose formulas that rely primarily on lactose since it more closely mimics the composition of breast milk. 

If avoiding non-lactose sweeteners is important to you, check the ingredient list for terms like “corn syrup solids,” “maltodextrin,” “glucose syrup,” or “brown rice syrup.” 

What to Look for in a Great Infant Formula 

Choosing a formula can feel like a big decision, and having the right information can make the process easier. Every formula has its own unique composition, and the key is finding one that meets your baby’s nutritional needs, works well for their digestion, and fits your family’s budget. Below are some great indicators that will help you know that you’re choosing high-quality infant formula. 

1. Organic Certification

In the U.S., formulas labeled “USDA Organic” meet federal organic standards and use ingredients that are free from pesticides, GMOs, and certain artificial additives (1). Parents may choose to prioritize an organic formula if their priority is to limit their baby’s exposure to pesticides or GMOs. 

2. Lactose as the Primary Carbohydrate

Since babies are naturally equipped to digest lactose (in the absence of allergies or other issues) (13), formulas that use it as the primary carbohydrate tend to be more easily tolerated. Some formulas use alternative sweeteners like corn syrup solids or maltodextrin instead of lactose.  

If you are looking for a formula that prioritizes lactose, check the ingredient list for “lactose” as the first carbohydrate listed.  

3. Whole Milk Base

Whole milk formulas preserve more of the natural milk fats, including milk fat globule membrane (11), which supports brain and immune health. When milk fat is used as the primary fat source, it means less fat sources like sunflower oil are likely to be used. 

4. A2 Milk or Goat Milk Options

Some parents find that their babies tolerate A2 milk or goat milk better than standard A1 cow’s milk formulas. Goat milk proteins may be gentler on digestion due to their closer resemblance to human milk proteins (14). Many babies digest A1 milk proteins just fine, so this may not be relevant for all babies, and if your baby is thriving on an A1 cow’s milk formula, there is no need to change. 

To learn more about goat milk for babies, read this article: Recipe: Emergency Goat Milk Baby Formula 

5. Prebiotics and Probiotics

Some formulas add prebiotics and probiotics to support gut health. Some parents prefer to seek out a formula that already contains pre and probiotics, while other parents may prefer to seek out high quality, infant safe probiotic supplements and add it to their baby’s bottles. The benefit of adding in probiotics yourself is that you can choose exactly which strains you’d like to prioritize, and that you can seek out high quality, third-party tested supplements to ensure purity and potency. 

To learn more about probiotics, read this article: The Vast Health Benefits of Probiotics 

6. DHA and ARA (from Safe Sources)

DHA and ARA are important for brain and eye development (15), but DHA is not required in U.S. infant formula (16), whereas in Europe it is a mandatory addition to all infant formulas. As with probiotics, some parents choose to seek out a DHA supplement, and add it to their infant’s milk. This way, they can choose a DHA supplement they are confident in. 

To learn more about DHA, read this article: The Benefits of Omega Fatty Acids for School-Aged Children 

Choosing the Right Water for Formula Preparation 

When it comes to choosing the right formula for your baby, it is equally important to consider water quality. Even the highest-quality formula mixed with low-quality water results in a lower-quality product. Filtered or distilled water is preferable to avoid contaminants like heavy metals, chlorine, or bacteria. Some tap water contains added fluoride, which may contribute to excess intake in infants. If using tap water, boiling it for one minute and then allowing it to cool to the appropriate temperature can help eliminate potential bacterial contamination (17).  

A Note on Homemade Infant Formulas 

Some caregivers choose to use homemade infant formulas. I do not recommend homemade infant formulas as the main source of nutrition for an infant, especially an infant under 6 months old, due to the risk of nutritional deficiency. However, homemade infant formulas can be used in a pinch (such as during a formula shortage) or for very occasional supplementation.  

My recipe for homemade emergency infant formula can be found here: Recipe: Emergency Goat Milk Baby Formula 

What You Need to Know About Vitamin D Supplementation for Combination Fed Babies 

One nutritional difference between breast milk and formula is that formula is fortified with vitamin D, where breast milk is naturally low in vitamin D (18). It is widely recommended that breastfed babies be supplemented with vitamin D (18), and while this isn’t strictly necessary for a fully formula fed baby, if you are combination feeding and your baby is getting less than 32 ounces of formula per day, vitamin D supplementation may still be necessary.

To learn more about vitamin D supplementation for babies, read this article: Vitamin D Supplementation For Babies 

Summary 

Choosing a baby formula is a personal decision, and every family’s situation is different. While the options can feel overwhelming, focusing on high-quality ingredients and minimizing unwanted additives can help ensure that your baby receives nutrition that you feel good about. Whether you are exclusively formula feeding, combo feeding, or transitioning from breast milk, there are excellent options available that align with your baby’s needs and your family’s values. 

Whichever formula you choose, remember that a well-fed baby is a happy baby, and no parent should feel guilt or pressure over their feeding choices. You are doing what is best for your baby, and that’s what truly matters. 

The formulas listed below are among some of my favorite choices available in the US: 

Dairy Based Formulas (Cow’s and Goat’s milk) 

• ByHeart 
• Baby’s Only Organic Infant Formula (tends to be a more affordable option) 
• Bobbie Organic Baby Formula (tends to be pricier) 
• Bubs Organic Grass Fed Infant Formula 
• Bubs Easy Digest Goat Milk Infant Formula (goat milk based – tends to be pricier) 
• Happy Baby Organic Infant Formula 
• Kabrita Goat Milk Infant Formula (goat milk based) 
• Kendamil Organic First Infant Milk (tends to be a more affordable option) 

Dairy Free Options 

• Earth’s Best Non-GMO Soy Infant Formula (My preferred choice, but not currently available) 
• Similac Soy Isomil 

References:  

1. USDA. (2025, January 7). Organic 101: What the USDA Organic Label Means. Usda.gov. https://www.usda.gov/about-usda/news/blog/organic-101-what-usda-organic-label-means 
2. Jargin SV. Soy and phytoestrogens: possible side effects. Ger Med Sci. 2014 Dec 15;12:Doc18. doi: 10.3205/000203. PMID: 25587246; PMCID: PMC4270274. 
3. Alasfar RH, Isaifan RJ. Aluminum environmental pollution: the silent killer. Environ Sci Pollut Res Int. 2021 Sep;28(33):44587-44597. doi: 10.1007/s11356-021-14700-0. Epub 2021 Jul 1. PMID: 34196863; PMCID: PMC8364537. 
4. Koo WW, Hockman EM, Dow M. Palm olein in the fat blend of infant formulas: effect on the intestinal absorption of calcium and fat, and bone mineralization. J Am Coll Nutr. 2006 Apr;25(2):117-22. doi: 10.1080/07315724.2006.10719521. PMID: 16582027. 
5. Simon Sarkadi L, Zhang M, Muránszky G, Vass RA, Matsyura O, Benes E, Vari SG. Fatty Acid Composition of Milk from Mothers with Normal Weight, Obesity, or Gestational Diabetes. Life (Basel). 2022 Jul 21;12(7):1093. doi: 10.3390/life12071093. PMID: 35888181; PMCID: PMC9323340. 
6. Zijlstra, Ruurd T, Binding Fatty Acids into Indigestible Calcium Soap: Removing a Piece of Pie
   The Journal of Nutrition, Volume 151, Issue 5, 1053 – 1054 
7. López-López A, Castellote-Bargalló AI, Campoy-Folgoso C, Rivero-Urgël M, Tormo-Carnicé R, Infante-Pina D, López-Sabater MC. The influence of dietary palmitic acid triacylglyceride position on the fatty acid, calcium and magnesium contents of at term newborn faeces. Early Hum Dev. 2001 Nov;65 Suppl:S83-94. doi: 10.1016/s0378-3782(01)00210-9. PMID: 11755039. 
8. Komisarska P, Pinyosinwat A, Saleem M, Szczuko M. Carrageenan as a Potential Factor of Inflammatory Bowel Diseases. Nutrients. 2024 Apr 30;16(9):1367. doi: 10.3390/nu16091367. PMID: 38732613; PMCID: PMC11085445. 
9. Younes, M., Aggett, P., Aguilar, F., Crebelli, R., Filipič, M., Frutos, M. J., Galtier, P., Gott, D., Gundert‐Remy, U., Kuhnle, G. G., Lambré, C., Leblanc, J., Lillegaard, I. T., Moldeus, P., Mortensen, A., Oskarsson, A., Stankovic, I., Waalkens‐Berendsen, I., Woutersen, R. A., & Wright, M. (2018). Re‐evaluation of carrageenan (E 407) and processed Eucheuma seaweed (E 407a) as food additives. EFSA Journal, 16(4). https://doi.org/10.2903/j.efsa.2018.5238 
10. The Cornucopia Institute. (2008, April 14). Organic Infant Formula Ingredients Processed with Toxic Chemical – Cornucopia Institute. Cornucopia Institute. https://www.cornucopia.org/2008/04/organic-infant-formula-ingredients-processed-with-toxic-chemical/ 
11. Mohamed HJJ, Lee EKH, Woo KCK, Sarvananthan R, Lee YY, Mohd Hussin ZA. Brain-immune-gut benefits with early life supplementation of milk fat globule membrane. JGH Open. 2022 Jun 1;6(7):454-461. doi: 10.1002/jgh3.12775. PMID: 35822117; PMCID: PMC9260205. 
12. Berger PK, Plows JF, Demerath EW, Fields DA. Carbohydrate composition in breast milk and its effect on infant health. Curr Opin Clin Nutr Metab Care. 2020 Jul;23(4):277-281. doi: 10.1097/MCO.0000000000000658. PMID: 32304397; PMCID: PMC7805382. 
13. Romero-Velarde E, Delgado-Franco D, García-Gutiérrez M, Gurrola-Díaz C, Larrosa-Haro A, Montijo-Barrios E, Muskiet FAJ, Vargas-Guerrero B, Geurts J. The Importance of Lactose in the Human Diet: Outcomes of a Mexican Consensus Meeting. Nutrients. 2019 Nov 12;11(11):2737. doi: 10.3390/nu11112737. PMID: 31718111; PMCID: PMC6893676. 
14. He, T., Rombouts, W., Einerhand, A. W. C., Hotrum, N., & van de Velde, F. (2021). Gastric protein digestion of goat and cow milk infant formula and human milk under simulated infant conditions. International Journal of Food Sciences and Nutrition, 1–11. https://doi.org/10.1080/09637486.2021.1921705 
15. Carlson SE, Colombo J. Docosahexaenoic Acid and Arachidonic Acid Nutrition in Early Development. Adv Pediatr. 2016 Aug;63(1):453-71. doi: 10.1016/j.yapd.2016.04.011. Epub 2016 Jun 3. PMID: 27426911; PMCID: PMC5207030. 
16. Strzalkowski A, Black G, Young BE. Iron and DHA in Infant Formula Purchased in the US Fails to Meet European Nutrition Requirements. Nutrients. 2023 Apr 8;15(8):1812. doi: 10.3390/nu15081812. PMID: 37111031; PMCID: PMC10143847. 
17. CDC. (2024, December 19). Infant Formula Preparation and Storage. Infant and Toddler Nutrition. https://www.cdc.gov/infant-toddler-nutrition/formula-feeding/preparation-and-storage.html 
18. CDC. (2024, April 15). Vitamin D and Breastfeeding. Breastfeeding Special Circumstances. https://www.cdc.gov/breastfeeding-special-circumstances/hcp/diet-micronutrients/vitamin-d.html