Best Infant Formula 2026: Complete Guide for Newborns

Our Top Infant Formula Picks

1. Similac 360 Total Care — Best Overall

Why we love it: Similac's flagship formula includes 5 types of HMOs (prebiotics found in breast milk), has no palm oil (easier digestion), and provides complete nutrition. The 360 Total Care line is their most advanced offering.

2. Enfamil NeuroPro — Best for Brain Development

Why we love it: Contains MFGM (milk fat globule membrane), a brain-nourishing component found in breast milk. The DHA level is backed by clinical research. Enfamil is the #1 pediatrician-recommended brand.

3. Kendamil Organic — Best Organic

Why we love it: UK-made with whole milk (not skim), no palm oil, organic certified. The only major formula using natural milk fat instead of vegetable oils. Now widely available in the US.

Full Kendamil review →

4. Gerber Good Start GentlePro — Best for Easy Digestion

Why we love it: The "comfort proteins" are partially broken down for easier digestion. Great first choice for babies who might have mild sensitivity. Less extreme than hypoallergenic but gentler than standard.

5. Kirkland Signature Infant Formula — Best Budget

Why we love it: Made by the same manufacturer that makes Similac. Excellent nutrition at 30-40% less cost. Requires Costco membership but the savings add up significantly.

Generic formula guide →

Best Formula by Category

Best for Gassy/Fussy Babies

1. Gerber Good Start SoothePro — L. reuteri probiotic + comfort proteins
2. Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive — Reduced lactose
3. Enfamil Gentlease — Partially hydrolyzed, reduced lactose

Full guide to formula for gassy babies →

Best for Reflux/Spit-Up

1. Enfamil AR — Added rice starch for thickening
2. Similac for Spit-Up — Rice starch formula
3. Gerber Good Start Soothe — May help mild reflux

Best for Milk Protein Allergy

1. Nutramigen — Extensively hydrolyzed, gold standard
2. Alimentum — Extensively hydrolyzed by Similac
3. EleCare/PurAmino — Amino acid-based for severe allergy

Hypoallergenic formula guide →

Best Organic Options

1. Kendamil Organic — European quality, whole milk
2. Bobbie — US-made European-style organic
3. Earth's Best Organic — Affordable organic option
4. Happy Baby Organic — Includes prebiotics

Best organic formula guide →

What to Look for in Infant Formula

Essential Nutrients (FDA Required)

All US formulas must contain:

• Protein (minimum 1.8g/100 cal)
• Fat (30-54% of calories)
• Carbohydrates (lactose for most)
• Iron (at least 0.15mg/100 cal)
• Vitamins A, D, E, K, C, B vitamins
• Minerals: calcium, phosphorus, zinc, etc.

Beneficial Extras (Not Required)

Red Flags to Avoid

• ❌ Formulas not FDA registered
• ❌ Homemade formula recipes
• ❌ Expired products
• ❌ Imported formulas without FDA approval

Formula Types Explained

Standard (Cow's Milk-Based)

Best for: Most healthy, full-term newborns

Examples: Similac 360, Enfamil NeuroPro, Gerber Good Start

Contains cow's milk protein, lactose, and vegetable oils. Suitable for ~80% of babies.

Gentle/Sensitive

Best for: Babies with mild gas, fussiness, or lactose sensitivity

Examples: Enfamil Gentlease, Similac Sensitive, Gerber SoothePro

Partially hydrolyzed proteins and/or reduced lactose for easier digestion.

Hypoallergenic

Best for: Diagnosed milk protein allergy or severe intolerance

Examples: Nutramigen, Alimentum, EleCare

Extensively hydrolyzed or amino acid-based. Requires prescription coverage in many cases.

Soy-Based

Best for: Lactose intolerance, vegetarian families, galactosemia

Examples: Enfamil ProSobee, Similac Soy Isomil

Note: Not suitable for milk protein allergy (50% of allergic babies react to soy too).

Specialty

• AR formulas: For reflux (added rice starch)
• Preemie formulas: Higher calories for premature babies
• Goat milk: Alternative protein source (Kendamil Goat)

How to Choose the Right Formula

Decision Framework

1. Start with standard formula unless doctor advises otherwise
2. Observe for 1-2 weeks — give baby time to adjust
3. Watch for issues: Excessive gas, persistent fussiness, blood in stool, severe reflux
4. Switch if needed — consult pediatrician for guidance

When to Try Gentle Formula

• Persistent gas and fussiness
• Excessive spit-up (more than normal)
• Constipation or hard stools
• Family history of milk sensitivity

When to See a Doctor

• Blood in stool
• Severe vomiting (projectile)
• Refusing to eat
• Poor weight gain
• Severe skin rashes

Formula Costs Compared

*Based on average newborn consumption of ~25oz/day

Use our formula cost calculator →

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I switch formula brands?

Yes, you can switch between similar formula types (e.g., one standard formula to another). Do it gradually over 3-5 days by mixing old and new. Some fussiness during transition is normal.

Is ready-to-feed better than powder?

Ready-to-feed is sterile and more convenient but much more expensive. For healthy, full-term babies, powder formula prepared properly is equally safe and nutritious.

How do I know if formula isn't working?

Signs to watch: excessive crying (more than 3 hours/day), bloody stools, severe constipation, refusing bottles, poor weight gain, severe skin reactions. Give any new formula at least 1-2 weeks before deciding it doesn't work.

Should I buy expensive formula?

Not necessarily. Generic formulas meet the same FDA requirements. Premium formulas offer extras (specific HMOs, branded ingredients) but the core nutrition is similar. Buy what you can afford consistently.