12 Best Formula Milk for Toddlers 2022
Formula milk, is commonly made from cow’s milk that has been processed to make it more acceptable for babies.
In stores, you may find a broad variety of brands and types of formula. Always read the labels to ensure you’re getting the right milk for your baby.Feeding Guide for Toddlers 12 months onwards - Stage 3 / Stage 4
Summary : Feed breast milk, dairy milk (cow / goat / etc), alternative plant based milk (soy), more soft / semi solid foods. Seek medical advice before feeding non breast milk alternatives.
Children will usually start to eat larger, more regular meals and get most of their nutrition from foods other than milk. WHO recommends that babies continue to be breast fed up to 2 years and beyond, but they may begin to need less breast milk as they eat more food.
After 12 months, your baby may not need formula milk anymore as they can start drinking cow’s milk and other alternatives more regularly.
Below are some of the main types of milk that may be given at this stage.
Cow’s Milk - For children under 2, choose full-fat cow’s milk. Semi-skimmed doesn’t have the same nutrient profile in terms of vitamins and minerals and has less energy.
Goat’s / Sheep’s Milk - Their nutrient profiles are similar to cow’s milk so as long as they’re pasteurised, they’re alright to offer.
Soya Drinks & Other Milk Alternatives - As part of a healthy, balanced diet, soya, oat, almond and other vegetable based milks can be offered or used in cooking. However, they are usually not as nutritionally comparable to cow’s milk. Furthermore, not all brands fortify with the same nutrients.
2 years and above
Summary : Feed cow's milk or alternative, and a balanced diet. Formula milk as an addition if the child is not receiving enough nutrients.
Children will start to eat a more varied, balanced diet and may rely less on milk. You may adjust how much milk you give them based on their diet throughout the week. If your child's diet doesn’t include dairy, you should consider how you can replace any nutrients they might be missing out on, such as formula milk or alternative foods.
Best Formula Milk for Toddlers 2022
1. Baby's Only Organic Whey & Dairy Protein with DHA & ARA Gentle Toddler Formula
Our Whey & Dairy with Organic DHA & ARA is formulated with a protein and carbohydrate composition more like that of breast milk to supports brain & eye development. Nature’s One strives to use only high-quality ingredients and goes beyond organic standards.
– Perfect for lactose sensitivities
– Contains fatty acids that convert to DHA & ARA
– Carbohydrate and protein content similar to breast milk
– 100% organic lactose as carbohydrate source
Ratings
4.6 out of 5 - More than 3,700 global ratings
Review
We love this formula! I’m a breastfeeding mama, but when I have to travel, when we have a babysitter, or just to supplement, this is the only formula we will use. It actually smells and tastes nice, which is surprisingly rare. Why is typical formula so awful? This stuff is amazing. Happy baby, no tummy troubles with this. He switches from breastmilk to formula no problem. I feel good about the organic ingredients, and love that includes DHA and ARA. Thank you Baby’s Only!!
Made with premium Dutch goat milk, Kabrita is easy to digest and is specially created for your 12-24 month (1 to 2-year-old) toddler. Our naturally A2 milk formula will help keep your little one comfortable while supplementing, weaning, or when changing formulas due to tummy troubles.
Kabrita is a great cow milk alternative for children who experience minor issues associated with cow milk consumption. Its mild, sweet taste makes it a popular choice, even among picky eaters. We also use an adapted whey-to-casein protein ratio for even better digestibility.
– No added preservatives, artificial colors and flavors
– Glyphosate pesticide-free certified
Review
Our baby can’t have dairy formula and we didnt want to switch to soy. We have not had any issues since the switch, no upset tummies, gas or spit ups. We and our little one are very happy.
Kabrita is a great cow milk alternative for children who experience minor issues associated with cow milk consumption. Its mild, sweet taste makes it a popular choice, even among picky eaters. We also use an adapted whey-to-casein protein ratio for even better digestibility.
– No added preservatives, artificial colors and flavors
– Glyphosate pesticide-free certified
Review
Our baby can’t have dairy formula and we didnt want to switch to soy. We have not had any issues since the switch, no upset tummies, gas or spit ups. We and our little one are very happy.
Stage 2 Gerber Good Start Soy formula helps to avoid fussiness and gas due to milk or lactose intolerance for digestive comfort while providing complete nutrition. Comfort for your child means happiness for all.
- For babies 9 to 24 months old
- Milk and lactose-free nutrition
- Made with soy proteins to ease digestion for tiny tummies that are milk or lactose intolerant
- Expert-recommended DHA to help support brain and eye development
- No artificial growth hormones
- Kosher
- Halal
Ratings
4.8 out of 5 - 89 global ratings
My two older children were lactose intolerant. Even my breast milk made them ridiculously fussy and gassy. So I wasn't surprised when our newest addition started having the same troubles. I got the pediatrician's approval to try soy, and once again it seems to be working great this time around.
My daughter is tolerating this formula pretty well. She is not anywhere near as gassy. However I do feel she is a bit more constipated than before. Also know Good Start Soy is not as tasty as their milk based formulas; but I can say I remember it now smelling and tasting better now than it did 7 years ago!
4. PediaSmart Dairy Vanilla Complete Nutrition Beverage Powder Mix
- Recommended for children ages 1 through 13 years
- Certified USDA Organic Complete Nutrition with 29 vitamins & minerals & 7 grams of protein and organic simple & complex carbohydrates for a steady supply of ready energy
- Excellent nutrition as a healthy beverage, quick breakfast and for a child in need of added calories.
- No Artificial Flavors, Colors or Sweeteners. No corn syrup.
- Lactose Sensitive : PediaSmart is gluten-free and suitable for lactose intolerance. This product is a milk-based beverage, but the lactose or milk sugar has been removed using a special organic compliant enzyme process.
- Made in the U.S.A.
- Non GMO
- Clean Label Project Verified
Ingredients
Organic rice maltodextrin, organic evaporated cane sugar, organic lactose free milk protein concentrate, organic high oleic oil (organic high oleic sunflower and/or organic high oleic safflower oils), organic soybean oil, organic coconut oil, organic vanilla, contains less than 1%: natural flavors, potassium citrate, magnesium phosphate, potassium phosphate, potassium chloride, choline bitartrate, calcium phosphate, sodium chloride, organic soy lecithin, ascorbic acid, magnesium chloride
Ratings
4.2 out of 5 - More than 400 global ratings
This is great for our tiny toddler, who doesn't eat much! We started using it around 18 months as she wouldn't eat much, is super tiny. Nursed until age 2, but was a frequent quick eater.
This is a much better alternative than Pediasure and I feel better giving it to her to supplement. She calls it her "sure" since we used to do the other until we found this by chance at Sprouts- just as they were discontinuing it. When my daughter has not been eating well- she will typically drink a cup of this. At first, we mixed it in milk, not reading that it only needed water so it didn't dissolve well- once we used our eyes and read it, it dissolved great in water! We add milk to it after to give her extra benefits. Love it!
5. Enfagrow PREMIUM Toddler Nutritional Drink
Enfagrow NeuroPro contains expert recommended Omega-3 DHA and iron–two building blocks of a toddler’s brain. Contains calcium, vitamin d, zinc and 21 other nutrients—to help support growth and development and complement a toddler’s diet.
– For toddlers 1 year and above
– Brain Building DHA
– Made with Real Milk
– Immune Support
– Iron Added
Ratings
4.7 out of 5 – More than 1,300 global ratings
Review
For toddlers not ready for cows milk yet. It smells like a vanilla shake or cake batter to me. Even though my son drinks regular milk i give him this before bed so he can be full and sleep through the night.
– Brain Building DHA
– Made with Real Milk
– Immune Support
– Iron Added
Ratings
4.7 out of 5 – More than 1,300 global ratings
Review
For toddlers not ready for cows milk yet. It smells like a vanilla shake or cake batter to me. Even though my son drinks regular milk i give him this before bed so he can be full and sleep through the night.
6. Earth's Best Organic Toddler Milk Drink Powder
Earth's Best Organic Toddler Formula provides balanced nutrition for continued growth and development for your growing child. The formula is fortified with iron for red blood cell development and contains DHA and ARA, two fatty acids found in breast milk that help support brain and eye health. With lutein for eyes and prebiotic fiber for immunity, this is a fantastic formula solution for your little one.
- USDA ORGANIC CERTIFIED & NON GMO INGREDIENTS
- For toddlers 1 year and older as a nutritious alternative to cow's milk.
- Natural vanilla flavor your little one will love.
- DHA omega-3 fatty acids to help support brain and eye development.
- Made with Organic Milk from grass & grain fed cows from our family of organic farmers.
- Prebiotics for immunity.
Ingredients
Organic Skim Milk Powder, Oragnic Maltodextrin, Organic Cane Sugar, Organic (Palm Oil or Palm Olein)
Ratings
4.7 out of 5 - More than 900 global ratings
We are still working on transitioning my daughter entirely off of formulas. It has been a struggle, but I found that Earth's Best makes it easier for me to know that she is getting the vitamins she needs. She is an extremely picky eater, but she LOVES the taste of this stuff. We fed her Earth's Best infant formula as well and she is a healthy and vibrant toddler. I highly recommend the Earth's Best organic product family. I feel confident they provide high-quality ingredients.
7. Enfagrow Gentlease Toddler Formula
Enfagrow Toddler Transitions Gentlease Fomula contains proteins that are partially broken-down that are easy to digest to ease fussiness, gas and crying. It contains 26 milligrams of brain nourishing omega 3 DHA to assure brain support and rapid development. Moreover, Enfagrow NeuroPro contains expert recommended omega 3 DHA and iron–two building blocks of a toddler’s brain.
– Brain Building DHA
– Eases Fussiness, Gas, & Crying
– Immune Health
Ratings
4.7 out of 5 – More than 130 global ratings
Review
My son is almost 2 and has problems with most foods. One day he likes food and wants to eat allot and then he won’t want to eat a full meal for 3 days. This powder is great for them to get their nutrients in without it making them full or gassy.
8. Holle Whole Milk Toddler Drink
Suitable if replacing or in addition to breast milk. Readily accepted when changing from other milk formulas. Great for bottle feeding and mixing with cereals
- For Children 1 Year & Up
- Soy-free and gluten-free.
- EUROPEAN : Superior quality milk from cows fed on lush certified biodynamic pastures.
- GMO-FREE : No corn syrup, artificial preservatives, flavors, colors, or other unnatural ingredients.
- CHEMICAL-FREE : Complete nutrient profile with healthy carbohydrates, fats, and micronutrients, -
- PERFECT FOR TODDLERS : 12-months of age to the end of the third year as part of a mixed diet of bottle feeds and weaning.
- DHA & IRON (Supports healthy brain development)
- Shelf-stable
- BPA Free, FDA registered, Made in Austria.
Ingredients
Skimmed Milk Partly Demineralized Whey Powder Vegetable Oils, (Palm Oil, Sunflower Oil, Rapeseed Oil) Corn Maltodextrin Calcium Carbonate Ascorbic Acid Tricalcium Phosphate Ferrous Gluconate M Alpina Oil C. Cohnii Oil Dl-Alpha-Tocopheryl Acetate Zinc Sulphate Retinyl Acetate Niacinamide Cholecalciferol Calcium D Pantothenate Copper Sulphate Thiamine Mononitrate Pyridoxine Hydrochloride Folic Acid Manganese Sulphate Potassium Iodide Phylloquinone Sodium Selenatea
Ratings
4.7 out of 5 - More than 100 global ratings
Finally no more sugar or corn syrup instead if real milk. Of course is a little bit more money but it is totally worthy my 1 years old hasn’t had any stomach problems or allergies. For all the parents out there please read very well the ingredients and nutrition facts for other toddler milks and you’ll find out why this milk is one of the best
9. Alfamino Junior Amino Acid Based Pediatric Formula
A nutritionally complete, hypoallergenic amino acid based formula for children ages 1 to 13 years with multiple food allergies or malabsorptive conditions. Suitable for oral supplementation or tube feeding
Specialized Nutrition
Formulated with 65% of fat as MCT to help facilitate fat absorption, Alfamino Junior meets or exceeds 100% Dr is for protein and 25 key vitamins and minerals.
Hypoallergenic Pediatric Formula
Appropriate for conditions of severe maldigestion and malabsorption, Alfamino formulas offer unique compositions with tailored nutrient profiles and highly selective ingredients.
Medical Food
Suitable for gluten free and lactose free diets; Not for IV use
Ratings
4.4 out of 5 - 27 global ratings
10. Holle A2 Cow Milk Toddler Drink
Holle USA’s A2 Cow Milk drink is a great alternative drink and works as a breast milk supplement for toddlers. Created as a nutritional drink for toddlers, Holle A2 milk powder contains a select whey protein and casein mixture that provides essential protein for toddlers.
Our A2 milk is a nutritional drink, sourced from specially selected cows that produce only A2 beta protein A2 milk is sourced from European farmers. All ingredients are strictly monitored, guaranteeing the highest possible level of safety. A gentle option for your toddler's digestive system.
- A2 protein is similar to that found in breast milk.
- Non - GMO
- Made only from cows that produce the A2 beta-casein protein.
- Fortified with DHA & Iron
- No corn syrup added.
Ingredients
Skimmed A2 Milk, Partly Demineralized Whey Powder, Vegetable Oils (Palm Oil Sunflower Oil, Rapeseed Oil), Corn Maltodextrin, Calcium Carbonate, Ascorbic Acid, Tricalcium Phosphate, Ferrous Gluconate, M. Alpina Oil, C. Cohnii Oil, Dl-Alpha-Tocopheryl Acetate, Zinc Sulphate, Retinyl Acetate, Niacinamide, Cholecalciferol, Calcium-D-Pantothenate, Copper Sulphate Thiamine Mononitrate Pyridoxine Hydrochloride Folic Acid, Manganese Sulphate, Potassium Iodide, Phylloquinone, Sodium Selenate
Ratings
4.7 out of 5 - 11 global ratings
This is an easy to use, easy to mix, and well-received powdered milk drink. I like the attention to quality, with a host of vitamins and minerals added, milk from grass-fed cows, and no added corn syrup. It incorporates easily into water without needing lots of stirring or any appreciable lumps. It is pricey compared with other options, but the quality justifies the cost, in my opinion.
11. HIPP 3 Junior Combiotic
Composition suitable for children 1 year and above
– Reduced protein content suitable for children (1,0 g/100ml versus 3,3 g/100ml cow's milk)
– Targeted adaptation of critical nutrients: Iodine, iron and vitamin D (1.7 μg/100 ml)
– Natural lactic acid culture L. fermentum (originally obtained from breast milk)*
– Prebiotic GOS**: effective support for a healthy gut microbiota
– Valuable omega-3 fatty acids (ALA), important for brain and nerve cells
The perfect formula for active and hungry babies.
I've started to feed my baby with this formula after she was 6 months old because she became in an active and full of energy baby and the previous formula was not enough for her anymore. It worked perfect with her immediately and she started to sleep better during the night.
12. Else Plant-Based Complete Nutrition Formula for Toddlers
Dairy-Free, Soy-Free, Corn-Syrup Free, Gluten-Free, Non-GMO, Natural Ingredients, Vitamins and Minerals for 12 mo.+, Vegan, Organic
Introducing the first clean label, plant-based nutrition drink for complete nutrition beyond the first year. Finally. Clean, plant-based baby & toddler nutrition you can feel good about.
Else Plant-Based Complete Nutrition for Toddlers offers complete nutrition for 12+ months, providing a real alternative for toddlers with lactose intolerance, sensitivities and other dietary restrictions, a plant-based lifestyle or a preference for avoiding dairy or soy.
Contains ingredients, vitamins & minerals to support your child’s growth and development. Endorsed by leading pediatricians and nutritionists.
Made with real, whole foods (92% whole plants), it meets the highest standard for nutrition and your standard for a clean label. Clean Nutrition. Clean Conscience. No compromises
Ratings
4.3 out of 5 - More than 1000 global ratings
As a pediatric nurse who works in a hospital setting, I have seen way too many children at increasingly younger ages coming in with all sorts of GI, Neurological, Autoimmune, Endocrine and Allergic issues! Many of these situations can be diet related, that is why we wanted something clean and organic for our 18 month old grandson, something without cows milk ( causes many stomach issues), and without Soy ( has hormones in it)!!
Finally Else has something we can give our grandson without all that garbage in it!! We mixed Else with a banana and made a smoothie for our grandson, and he loved it!!! we tried it too and it tasted like almond!! This is the only product on the market like this!! What a winner!!! I hear they have an infant formula coming soon too! What a winner!!!!
FAQs
1. Difference Between Stage 2 and Stage 3 / Stage 4 Formula Milk
- Stage 2 formula can be used starting from month 7 onwards. Stage 3 formula can be used for toddlers 12 months or older.
- 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.
2. Types of baby milk formula
a. Cow milk protein-based formulas.
Protein is not processed at all in standard formulations. They’re exactly the same size as when they first came from the cow. That is a big size. The proteins in cow’s milk are significantly larger than those in breast milk.
Full-size proteins are listed as “nonfat milk,” “milk protein isolate,” or “whey protein” (a component of cow’s milk protein) on the ingredient list. These are the normal formulations, which include full-size proteins.
b. Soy-based formulas.
Proteins in soy, like those in cow’s milk, are significantly larger than those in breast milk. The different is they aren't based on the proteins found in soybeans
In soy formulae, the term “soy protein isolate” may appear on the ingredient list. These are the standard formulations, which include full-size proteins.
c. Protein hydrolysate formulas.
Hydrolyzed proteins formula require less processing to absorb, they may be a good option for some newborns or infants who have difficulty digesting full-size proteins or have a history of digestive problems.
3. Cow Milk Formula vs Soy Milk Formula
Protein is not processed at all in standard formulations. They’re exactly the same size as when they first came from the cow. That is a big size. The proteins in cow’s milk are significantly larger than those in breast milk.
Full-size proteins are listed as “nonfat milk,” “milk protein isolate,” or “whey protein” (a component of cow’s milk protein) on the ingredient list. These are the normal formulations, which include full-size proteins.
b. Soy-based formulas.
Proteins in soy, like those in cow’s milk, are significantly larger than those in breast milk. The different is they aren't based on the proteins found in soybeans
In soy formulae, the term “soy protein isolate” may appear on the ingredient list. These are the standard formulations, which include full-size proteins.
c. Protein hydrolysate formulas.
Hydrolyzed proteins formula require less processing to absorb, they may be a good option for some newborns or infants who have difficulty digesting full-size proteins or have a history of digestive problems.
3. Cow Milk Formula vs Soy Milk Formula
According to American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), cow’s milk formula is still the next best thing to breast milk for the majority of newborns. However, some infants who can’t digest cow’s milk, it is best to avoid cow milk formula and start using soy milk formula.
With the growing awareness of the potential health benefits of soy products, parents may opt for this type of formula in the belief that it is better for their children. The popularity of soy formulas among American parents has grown, with one out of every four parents now choosing for soy. But the AAP says it may not be so. And while the academy doesn’t claim that soy formula will lead to the development of health problems, some experts aren’t so sure.
4. Cow Milk Formula vs Goat Milk Formula
With the growing awareness of the potential health benefits of soy products, parents may opt for this type of formula in the belief that it is better for their children. The popularity of soy formulas among American parents has grown, with one out of every four parents now choosing for soy. But the AAP says it may not be so. And while the academy doesn’t claim that soy formula will lead to the development of health problems, some experts aren’t so sure.
4. Cow Milk Formula vs Goat Milk Formula
In fact, goat milk and cow milk are nearly equivalent in terms of macronutrients. Goat milk has the highest protein and cholesterol content, whereas cow milk has a slightly lower fat content.
In terms of vitamins and minerals, both milks have plenty to offer, albeit in different quantities. Cow milk has more vitamin B12, selenium, and folic acid than goat milk, while goat milk has more calcium, potassium, and vitamin A.
In addition, 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. Fat molecules (or globules, to be more precise) are also smaller, making it easier for your body to process.
In terms of vitamins and minerals, both milks have plenty to offer, albeit in different quantities. Cow milk has more vitamin B12, selenium, and folic acid than goat milk, while goat milk has more calcium, potassium, and vitamin A.
In addition, 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. Fat molecules (or globules, to be more precise) are also smaller, making it easier for your body to process.
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