10 Best Formula Milk for 1-3 Years Old 2023
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 from 12 months - 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.
Here are the best formula milk for 1-3 years old that you can buy over the counter or online today.
A. Cow's milk formula
1. Baby’s Only Organic Whey & Dairy Protein Formula
2. Enfagrow Premium Toddler Nutritional Drink
3. Go & Grow by Similac Toddler Drink
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.
The feeding of cow’s milk to infants is undesirable because of cow’s milk’s propensity to lead to iron deficiency and because it unduly increases the risk of severe dehydration. (Source)
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.
Best Formula Milk for 1-3 Years Old
If you are looking for the best formula milk for 1-3 years old, we have done our research and shortlisted the best for you. The list is based on search results, recommendations by third party organizations, online reviews and popularity on search results and forums. Although there are many customer reviews on many online sites, we have curated some of the helpful ones below.
Here are the best formula milk for 1-3 years old that you can buy over the counter or online today.
1. Baby’s Only Organic Whey & Dairy Protein Formula
2. Enfagrow Premium Toddler Nutritional Drink
3. Go & Grow by Similac Toddler Drink
4. HIPP 3 Junior Combiotic
B. Partially Hydrolyzed Formula
5. Enfagrow Gentlease Toddler Formula
C. Goat milk formula
6. Kabrita Goat Milk Toddler Formula
B. Partially Hydrolyzed Formula
5. Enfagrow Gentlease Toddler Formula
C. Goat milk formula
6. Kabrita Goat Milk Toddler Formula
Protein is not processed 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.
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.
1. Baby's Only Gentle Dairy 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
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.
– 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 ratingsWhy 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!!
2. 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.
– Brain Building DHA
– Made with Real Milk
– Immune Support
– Iron Added
– Brain Building DHA
– Made with Real Milk
– Immune Support
– Iron Added
Ratings
4.7 out of 5 – more than 1,300 global ratingsFor 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.
3. Go & Grow by Similac Toddler Drink
Go & Grow by Similac NON-GMO† with 2’-FL HMO Toddler Drink* helps complement your toddler’s diet as you introduce new foods. Go & Grow by Similac is the first toddler drink with 2’-FL human milk oligosaccharide,‡ an immune-nourishing prebiotic that supports digestive health.
Two servings of Go & Grow have 25 key nutrients and our exclusive blend of DHA, lutein, and vitamin E to support brain and eye development.
– Balance Toddler Diet
– No artificial growth hormones, and it’s also non-GMO
– Immune support
Two servings of Go & Grow have 25 key nutrients and our exclusive blend of DHA, lutein, and vitamin E to support brain and eye development.
– Balance Toddler Diet
– No artificial growth hormones, and it’s also non-GMO
– Immune support
4. HIPP 3 Junior Combiotic
– 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
HiPP 3 Junior Combiotic Review
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.
B. Partially Hydrolyzed Formula
This formula is made by breaking down the proteins in cow’s milk formula into small pieces. Hydrolyzed proteins formula require less processing to absorb, it is good option for some newborns or infants who have difficulty digesting full-size proteins or have a history of digestive problems.5. 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
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.
Cow's milk has more vitamin B12, selenium, and folic acid than goat milk. Meanwhile, goat milk has more calcium, potassium, and vitamin A.
In addition, goat milk may also be 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. Their fat molecules (or globules, to be more precise) are also smaller, making it easier for your body to process.
– Brain Building DHA
– Eases Fussiness, Gas, & Crying
– Immune Health
Ratings
4.7 out of 5 – more than 130 global ratingsMy 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.
C. Goat Milk Formula
Cow Milk Formula vs Goat Milk Formula
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.Cow's milk has more vitamin B12, selenium, and folic acid than goat milk. Meanwhile, goat milk has more calcium, potassium, and vitamin A.
In addition, goat milk may also be 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. Their fat molecules (or globules, to be more precise) are also smaller, making it easier for your body to process.
6. Kabrita Goat Milk Toddler Formula
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
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
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.
7. Holle Stage 3 : Goat Milk Formula
- Whole EU-organic goat’s milk is proven easier for children to digest.
- GMO-free with no artificial preservatives, corn syrup, or other unnatural ingredients.
- Vegetarian, soy-free, and gluten-free.
- Nutrient-complete with healthy carbohydrates, fats, and micronutrients.
- Perfect for 12-months of age to the end of the third year as part of a mixed diet of bottle feeds and weaning.
Ingredients
Full Cream Goat Milk Corn Maltodextrin Vegetable Oils (Sunflower Oil, Rapeseed Oil), Lactose, Corn and Potato Starch, Calcium Hydroxide, Calcium Citrate, Calcium Carbonate Magnesium Chloride, Ascorbic Acid Sodium Citrate Sodium Chloride M. Alpina Oil, C. Cohnii Oil Ferrous Lactate Dl- Alpha tocopheryl acetate Ferrous Sulphate Zinc Sulphate Cholecalciferol Retinyl Acetate Niacinamide Calcium D pantothenate Copper Sulphate Thiamine Hydrocloride Pyridoxine hydrochloride Folic Acid Riboflavin Magnesium Sulphate Potassium Iodide Phylloquinone Sodium Selenite Biotin Cyanocobalamin
Ratings
4.6 out of 5 - 22 global ratings
This is an awesome organic product that I was very excited to try for my baby considering this product has never been directly available in the US before. Holle products come from sustainable farms and are organic and non-GMO, so it’s something you can feel good about giving to your child. The stage 3 is made in Austria with goat’s milk so it’s a good option if your child is sensitive to cow’s milk.
I like that this is formulated to be similar to breast milk and has lactose as the carb vs. corn syrup solids. From a nutrition standpoint, I like that it has DHA for brain health as well as iron, and vitamins A, C and D.
This product might be on the more expensive side compared to other products, but it’s definitely worth it considering how clean the product is and the high quality ingredients used to make it.
D. Soy / Plant Based Formula
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 so they shouldn’t replace cow’s milk.Soy Formula
Soy formulas are made with soy, it means they contain soy protein. These formulae are marketed to people with lactose intolerance and galactosemia, both of which are uncommon in babies. In soy formula, the term “soy protein isolate” may appear on the ingredient list. These are the standard formulations, which include full-size soy proteins.
However, if your child has cow’s milk allergy, best consult a doctor before taking soy formula because some infants with cow’s milk allergy also react to soy.
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.
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.
8. Gerber Good Start Soy 3
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. Non-GMO: Not made with genetically engineered ingredients.
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!
9. 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
Else Plant Based Complete Nutrition Review
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!!!!
E. Amino Acid Based Formula / Hypoallergenic Formula
Amino acid-based formulas offer complete nutrition for babies who need additional nutrition support. These formulas are appropriate for children who are unable to tolerate extensively hydrolyzed formulas. Because these formulas do not contain any intact proteins, they are tolerated by most children. Amino acid-based formulas are also known as “elemental” formulas.
10. 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 - more than 20 global ratings
FAQs
1. Can infants drink cow milk?
Infants = from birth to 1 year old.The feeding of cow’s milk to infants is undesirable because of cow’s milk’s propensity to lead to iron deficiency and because it unduly increases the risk of severe dehydration. (Source)
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