Becoming a new mom or dad is one of the most joyful experiences you will ever have. It's also a time of critical decision-making for the health and well-being of your little one. One of the first decisions you'll make is whether to breastfeed or bottle-feed. If you choose or need to bottle feed, you then have to decide which type of formula to use.  When it comes to choosing the best baby formula for your child, there are a lot of factors to consider. There are many different types of formula available on the market these days, from traditional cow’s milk-based formulas to goat milk based, to soy-based and even gluten-free formulas. And then there’s the choice between European-made formulas or American-made formulas. You may be wondering if European baby formula is better than American formula and why. If so, you're not alone. Many parents are curious about the difference and wonder if it's worth the switch.

When it comes to the health of your children, the choices you make can be truly life-altering. This is especially true when it comes to infant formula. There are a lot of different types of baby formula on the market these days, and it can be hard to know which one is the best choice for your child. One thing that all parents should keep in mind, though, is that not all baby formulas are created equal. In fact, there can be a big difference between American-made formulas and European-made formulas. While American-made formulas are certainly adequate, there are now better European-made formulas available that offer improved health benefits. Here's a look at some of the reasons why parents might want to consider making the switch to a European-made formula for their baby.

The overall quality of European infant formula is much higher than that of American formulas

Any parent will tell you that their baby's health and well-being is their number one priority. So, when it comes to choosing an infant formula, it's important to choose one that will provide your child with the best possible nutrition. Unfortunately, the quality of American infant formulas falls far below that of European formulas. European baby formula standards are set to a significantly higher level, and European formula laws are continuously evolving and updated regularly. In contrast, the majority of guidelines for infant nutrition in the U.S. were established decades ago and have not been modernized to better reflect the ingredients available. As a result, many American infants are not getting the same high-quality nutrition as their European counterparts.

There's no question that the quality of European infant formula is much higher than that of American formulas. Many parents feel that they can trust European-made formulas to be safer and more nourishing for their children.  In Europe, all infant formulas are required to meet strict quality standards set by the European Commission. These standards are some of the highest in the world, and they help to ensure that European-made formulas are both safe and effective.

European formulas are made with organic, all-natural ingredients

Parents have a lot to consider when it comes to choosing the right baby formula. After all, they want to give their child the best possible start in life. For many parents, that means opting for a formula made with real ingredients derived from natural sources. Unfortunately, these formulas can be hard to come by in the United States.

European-made baby formulas are required by law to list all of their ingredients on the label. This transparency makes it easy for parents to see exactly what's going into their child's formula. American-made formulas, on the other hand, are not required to list all of their ingredients. This means that sometimes it can be difficult to tell what's actually in them. While baby formula in the United States is typically made from a combination of synthetic or processed ingredients, European-made formulas tend to have more natural ingredients.

European infant formulas contain only organic ingredients with no GMOs (genetically modified organisms), which could pose potential health risks to children.[i]  European infant formulas are made without controversial preservatives, additives, or other harmful ingredients such as chemicals which can be dangerous to your child's health. It's not unusual to see additives like carrageenan, lecithin, and mono or diglycerides in American baby formulas used as a thickener. The use of carrageenan in baby formulas may cause harmful effects on developing babies, including gastrointestinal issues and eczema.[ii] The E.U. banned its use for organic infant formulas because it can interfere with infant growth and cause other health concerns.

Furthermore, European baby formulas are held to higher standards when it comes to nutrition. For example, whole grains are more likely to be used as plant-based proteins than soybeans or other common allergens. There are minimum and maximum levels for each nutrient, including carbohydrates (which provide energy), fat content (needed to maintain skin health), vitamins, and minerals. As a result, European baby formulas offer a superior nutritional profile to their American counterparts.

Europe has banned the use of pesticides for baby formulas

Children and infants have a unique vulnerability to pesticides, making them more susceptible than adults due to their developmental stage. Despite the fact that European Union has banned the use of pesticides in baby foods, many popular American infant formula brands have been shown to contain detectable levels of harmful pesticides. This is due to the fact that the United States has a much weaker regulatory system when it comes to pesticides. In Europe, baby foods are required to have a zero tolerance for pesticide residues, but in the United States, there is no such requirement. This means that American infant formulas and baby foods can contain up to 10 times more pesticide residues than their European counterparts.

The Clean Label Project is a non-profit organization whose mission is to provide transparency to the food system by identifying and rating potentially harmful ingredients in consumer products. Recently, the organization released a study that found alarming levels of lead and arsenic in infant formulas and baby foods. According to the study, over 30% of American infant formulas and baby foods had detectable levels of lead, and over 50% of baby formulas contained detectable levels of arsenic.

European infant formulas do not contain added sugars

Unlike most baby formulas in the United States which often contain sweeteners such as high fructose corn syrup, European infant formulas do not contain added sugars. The lack of added sugars in European formulas may be a contributing factor to the lower rates of childhood obesity in Europe. American infant formulas are often criticized for containing unhealthy ingredients, such as high fructose corn syrup, which is linked to childhood obesity. By excluding unhealthy ingredients, European infant formulas are a healthier option for children.

European infant formulas are easier to digest, which can be helpful for babies with digestion problems and other dieting needs

If you have a fussy baby who suffers from digestive issues, you may be wondering what the best formula is to give them. While there are many different formulas on the market, European brands tend to deliver the best results. This is partly due to organic farming regulations, the ingredients used, and tight limitations on what can be added. European infant formulas are popular for a reason — they're easier to digest! This can be helpful for babies with digestion problems and other dieting needs. Additionally, these formulas often contain prebiotics and probiotics. Prebiotics support a baby's beneficial gut bacteria and probiotics aid in digestion. So not only will your baby have an easier time digesting formula, but the nutrients will be more easily absorbed. So, if you want the best formula for your fussy baby, go with a European brand.

European formulations include DHA and ARA acids

Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) is an important nutrient for brain development, while arachidonic acid (ARA) is essential for developing eyesight. These nutrients are found naturally in breast milk but not in cow's milk-based formulas. Studies have shown that infants who receive formulas with DHA and ARA have better visual acuity and cognitive development than those who do not.[iii] For this reason, many experts recommend that infants be given formula that includes DHA and ARA. However, in the United States, DHA and ARA are not required in infant formula. As a result, some manufacturers choose to include them while others do not. The European Union has mandated the addition of these two essential fatty acids to all infant formulas. As a result, all European formulas now include DHA and ARA, making them more similar to breastmilk and more beneficial for babies.

European formulas have age-specific nutrient formulations

Unlike in the United States, where baby formulas generally have the same or similar nutrient formulations regardless of the age of the baby, in Europe, manufacturers create different formulas for each stage of development. Infant formulas for 0-6 months have a different nutrient composition than those for 6-12 months which are also different than those for 1-3 years. The stage-specific nature of European baby formulas is due to the fact that babies' needs change as they develop and grow. For example, a newborn's digestive system is not yet fully developed, and so they need a special formulation that is easier to digest. Similarly, as babies start to eat solid foods, their need for certain nutrients changes, and so the formula must be adapted to meet those new needs. Ultimately, European baby formulas are more tailored to babies' individual needs and, as a result, are better prepared for meeting growth milestones.

What are the best European baby formulas

If you're like most parents, you want to give your baby the best start in life. That's why you're probably carefully researching which baby formula is right for your little one. 

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Kabrita

Kabrita is the perfect choice for parents who want to give their babies a delicious, non-GMO alternative to cow milk formula. Kabrita's goat milk formula is based on over 100 years of Dutch expertise in dairy farming, and it contains all the nutrients your baby needs to grow and thrive. Kabrita focuses on the health and nutrition of your little one. Their woman-led and woman-focused company relies on science, regulatory guidelines, and customer feedback to create the best possible products for your child. And they're always working to improve their formulas so that your baby gets the most out of every feeding. 

 

Holle

Holle baby formula is a cow or goat-based baby formula that is perfect for babies and toddlers. Holle formula uses ingredients created on Demeter farms, which create great baby formulas with exceptional environmentally-friendly manufacturing standards. For parents who want a baby formula much like breastmilk, Holle baby formula might be the best choice. Holle baby formula has a blend of breast milk-friendly nutrients and fatty acids that babies need. It also does not add a sugary sweetener.

 

If your baby is allergic to cow's milk, Holle goat milk formula may be a good option. Goat milk is more similar to human milk than cow's milk, and it's also easier to digest. Holle goat milk formula also contains no artificial flavors or colors. Plus, it's made with organic ingredients and is GMO-free. So, if you're looking for a natural and healthy baby formula, Holle goat milk formula is a great choice.

Loulouka

Loulouka is a brand of infant formula that is manufactured in Switzerland. The company prides itself on using whole, organic milk in its products. Additionally, Loulouka does not use palm oil in its products. Instead, the company uses a more sustainable alternative: coconut oil. Loulouka's formula is European Organic certified. This certification guarantees that the product meets high standards for organic production. Loulouka's formula also provides all of the necessary vitamins and minerals for babies as they grow. As a result, Loulouka's formula is a healthy and sustainable choice for parents who want the best for their children.

 

Nannycare

Nannycare is the number one goat milk infant formula in the U.K. for a reason. Nannycare goat milk-based formula is made with the best quality goat milk from a cooperative of farms. The goats are carefully selected and fed a highly nutritious diet to produce the best quality goat milk possible. Goat milk is soft and gentle on an infant's tummy and has a closer similarity to breast milk than cow's milk, making it the perfect base for making formula. Nannycare goat milk baby formula is easy to digest and helps reduce colic and constipation. It is also packed full of nutrients essential for healthy growth and development. Try it for yourself and see the difference Nannycare can make for your little one. 

 

 

Kendamil

Kendamil Organic Baby Formula is a premium formula made with carefully selected organic ingredients, including whole milk from grass-fed cows. The formula is enriched with essential nutrients like DHA, ARA, vitamins, and minerals, which are vital for healthy growth and development. Kendamil's commitment to using high-quality ingredients and organic farming practices means that parents can trust that their babies are receiving the best possible nutrition. Plus, the formula is easy to digest and free from harmful additives, making it an excellent choice for babies with sensitive stomachs.

 

Bottom Line

If you're looking for the best possible option for your baby's health, European-made infant formulas are a great choice. They contain only organic ingredients and no harmful chemicals or additives, making them a safe and healthy option for your child. They're safe and healthy for your child. You can trust that European-made infant formulas will provide your child with all of the nutrients they need to grow and thrive. With no harmful chemicals or additives, these formulas are a top choice for parents who want to ensure their children's health and well-being.

 

References

[i] Cantani A, Micera M. Genetically modified foods and children potential health risks. Eur Rev Med Pharmacol Sci. 2001 Jan-Feb;5(1):25-9. PMID: 11860219.

[ii] Tobacman JK. Review of harmful gastrointestinal effects of carrageenan in animal experiments. Environ Health Perspect. 2001 Oct;109(10):983-94. doi: 10.1289/ehp.01109983. PMID: 11675262; PMCID: PMC1242073.

[iii] Lien EL, Richard C, Hoffman DR. DHA and ARA addition to infant formula: Current status and future research directions. Prostaglandins Leukot Essent Fatty Acids. 2018 Jan;128:26-40. doi: 10.1016/j.plefa.2017.09.005. Epub 2017 Sep 15. PMID: 29413359.