One look at all of the varieties of baby formula and you're likely to feel overwhelmed. There are so many different types of formulas based on milk base, allergies, and more. That means you really have to do your homework so you know exactly what you're giving your baby so that they're getting the nutrients they need to grow and develop.
As you take in all of the various baby formulas, one key difference you'll find is that some are cow milk-based and others are goat-milk based. Holle is one brand that stands out when it comes to both of these types of formulas. While both are excellent sources of nutrients for your baby, there are some key differences to know. We're going to sort through them all so that you end up with the formula that is best for your baby's growing needs.
Cow Milk vs. Goat Milk Formulas
There are several notable differences between cow milk and goat milk formulas.
Taste and Texture
Both A1 and A2 cow milk formulas are known for their consistent taste. Goat's milk is milder and sweeter. It is also creamier than cow milk formulas.
Digestibility
The protein composition of goat milk formula makes it easier to digest than cow's milk. Goat milk-based formula has a higher concentration of fatty acids and smaller curds which also contributes to its digestibility. This is why babies who have digestive issues tend to use goat milk formula over cow milk formula.
Nutritional Content
Both formulas contain the essential nutrients for growth and development. They also share similar protein compositions and contain lactose. This means they are not an option for babies who are lactose intolerant, or those with a cow milk protein allergy.
Cow's milk is naturally higher in folic acid and B12. It also has a higher concentration of carotene. Goat milk offers a higher concentration of amino acids and peptides.
Why Holle is a Leader in the European Baby Formula Market
When it comes to cow milk and goat milk formulas, there are several to choose from, but Holle stands out among the competition.
Holle was founded in 1933 in the heart of the Swiss Alps. Today, they are made on the border of Germany and Switzerland. Formula milk powder packaging occurs in Austria. For over 90 years, Holle has stood committed to providing babies with the highest quality formulas possible. This means not only practicing biodynamic farming, but also carrying the esteemed Demeter-Certification.
Holle's formulas stand out because unlike some U.S. baby formulas where protein can be derived from cows who have received antibiotics and growth hormones or is synthetically manufactured, Holle's protein sources come from organic, grass-fed cows. These cows are allowed to roam free and graze on pesticide-free pastures. The result is a healthier product that is also more sustainable for the environment.
What is Biodynamic Farming?
Biodynamic farming is a sustainable and holistic approach to farming that focuses on maintaining soil health and the well-being of animals. It also focuses on preserving biodiversity. Biodynamic farming emphasizes the health of the whole ecosystem. Biodynamic Farmers use only natural methods to grow their crops and care for their animals. This means that they avoid using herbicides, chemicals, and synthetic pesticides. Instead, they rely on composting, crop rotation, and other sustainable practices to keep their farms healthy.
Why is the Demeter-Certification so Important?
The Demeter International certification is considered the highest standard of organic farming. Demeter-certified farms use natural methods such as crop rotation and composting to enhance soil health. Biodynamic farming is a type of organic farming that emphasizes the health of the whole ecosystem. Farmers who practice biodynamics use only natural methods to grow their crops and care for their animals. This means that they avoid using herbicides, chemicals, and synthetic pesticides. Instead, they rely on composting, crop rotation, and other sustainable practices to keep their farms healthy.
Demeter cows are treated humanely and are never dehorned. Cows on Demeter farms can produce more nutritious milk with higher levels of omega fatty acids, vitamin E, and beta carotene.
One important note about the Demeter certification and Holle brand formulas. Holle Cow Stage 4 does not qualify for Demeter certification, but remains EU organic. Also, A2 cow's milk is not available in Demeter quality. So, Holle's A2 cow's milk line carries the certification from the European Union. It is still one of the highest quality formulas around.
Key Ingredients of Holle Formulas
- Organic Milk
The key ingredient in Holle formula is organic milk sourced from biodynamic farms. These farms produce baby formula in a variety of options, included organic cow milk formula, goat milk formula, and cow milk formula made with A2 milk proteins.
- Organic Lactose
Lactose is a natural milk sugar that is also found in breast milk. It is the primary carbohydrate in Holle formulas. Lactose gives your baby the energy they need and supports healthy digestion.
- Vegetable Oils
Holle's formulas closely resemble breast milk's naturally occurring fats. There is a blend of organic vegetable oils like palm, rapeseed, and sunflower oils that supply the essential fatty acids for brian and eye development.
- Micronutrients
Holle is rich in micronutrients that are crucial for your baby's growth and development. These include:
- Vitamin C for immune function
- Vitamin E to protect cell health
- Vitamin K for blood clotting and bone health
- Vitamin D for calcium absorption and bone development
- Folic Acid for tissue and cell growth
- Zinc Sulfate to heal wounds and support immune function
- Vitamin B5 for energy production and hormone synthesis
- Omega Fatty Acids
Holle uses plant-based DHA (omega-3) from algae and ARA (omega-6) from Mortierella Alpinia oil. Both of these are important for supporting healthy cognitive development in infants.
A Closer Look at Holle Cow Milk Formulas
Holle's cow milk formulas stand out among the competition because their recipes are simple, which means they are naturally good for your baby. The milk used in Holle's cow formula is gently processed to preserve its nutritional integrity and closely mimic breast milk.
As we mentioned above, all Holle cow milk formulas carry the prestigious Demeter certification besides the Stage 4 formula. All Holle formulas are held to the strict EU standards.
Holle cow milk formulas do not contain any artificial sweeteners. They are also free of flavors, GMOs, and coloring agents.
Holle Cow Milk Formula Stages
Holle cow milk formulas are made for babies from birth to over the one-year mark.
Holle Cow Stage PRE
Holle Cow Milk Stage PRE provides newborns with the gentle, nutritious start they need. It is easy to digest and is formulated with the essential vitamins, minerals, and fatty acids that your baby needs for growth and development.
Holle Cow Stage 1
Holle Stage 1 is made for babies from birth to six months old. You'll also find the best organic ingredients. Used on its own or as a supplement for breast milk, it is also gentle on a baby's stomach. All Holle Stage PRE and Holle Stage 1 use lactose as the exclusive carbohydrate source and are made to closely resemble breast milk.
Holle Cow Stage 2
If your baby is 6-10 months old, you'll want to try Holle Cow Stage 2 formula. It contains all of the essential vitamins and minerals babies need for healthy growth. You'll also find higher levels of vitamin C, D, and iron to boost and support your baby's growing needs.
Holle Cow Stage 3
Stage 3 formula is made for babies over 10 months old and provides all the nutrients that growing toddlers need. Made with all-natural ingredients, it can be used to replace breastmilk. The vitamins and minerals found in this formula mimic those in breast milk, making it ideal for toddlers who have started the weaning process.
Holle Cow Stage 4
Suitable for babies starting at 12 months old, this formula is also enriched with vitamins and nutrients needed for a baby's growing nutritional needs. It can be used as a supplement as babies transition to other foods.
Holle A2 Cow Milk Formulas
These formulas are made for parents who want their babies to have a cow milk-based formula, but prefer the A2 beta-casein formula. These formulas can be easier to adjust than the A1 beta-casein found in conventional cow's milk. But, it is not suitable for lactose intolerant babies or those with a cow milk protein allergy.
A Closer Look at Holle Goat Milk Formulas
Holle goat milk formulas use whole goat milk as their primary ingredient and fat source. This results in a creamy taste and lower vegetable oil content that brings a high level of nutritional content. There is also DHA sourced from algae, ALA, and lactose.
Holle goat milk formulas contain a high level of palmitic acid. This is vital for energy production, brain and nervous system development. This eliminates the need for additional palm oil. A2 goat milk protein is also easier to digest.
No GMOs or artificial sweeteners. There is no corn syrup, flavors, or coloring agents.
Holle goat milk formulas are EU organic certified. You will also find the Demeter-certification in all stages except for stage 4.
Holle Goat Milk Formula Stages
Like Holle cow milk formulas, Holle goat milk formulas are available for babies from birth to over the one-year mark
Holle Goat Stage PRE
Start your baby off on the right foot with Holle Goat Stage PRE. This goat milk formula offers a gentle start for your baby and is easy to digest. Use this formula from birth to provide your baby with the essential nutrients they need for healthy growth and development.
Holle Goat Stage 1
Holle Goat Stage 1 formula is made for babies from birth to six months old. It contains high-quality goat milk that is easy to digest. It is also enriched with vitamins and minerals like iron, zinc, and vitamin A, all of which are essential for growth and development.
Holle Goat Stage 2
Organic goat milk is the primary ingredient for the Holle Goat Stage 2 formula, making it easy to digest. It is made for babies 6-12 months old. This formula can be given as a supplement as babies start to transition to other foods. By providing them with this formula, you can have peace of mind that they are getting all of the nutrients they need.
Holle Goat Stage 3
Holle Goat Milk Stage 3 can be the perfect choice for babies ages 10 months and older. This is a great choice for your toddler as they start to eat other foods. It's easy on the digestive system and provides all of the essential nutrients a baby needs as they continue to grow.
Holle Goat Stage 4
Babies over one-year-old can use Holle Goat Stage 4 formula. This formula is a great choice if you want to continue to give your baby formula to make sure they are getting all of the vitamins they need in their diet. As with the other Holle goat stages, you will find all of the nutrients your growing toddler needs.
It's important to note that all Holle formulas draw most of their carbohydrates from organic lactose. But, from Stage 2 on, you may also find organic maltodextrin and organic starch included. These carbohydrates are important because they make your baby feel full for longer and help to enhance the formula's consistency. The specific amount of carbohydrates used will differ among the stages.
Holle Goat Dutch Milk Formula
Holle Goat is easily digestible because it's from grass-fed goats producing A2 milk, which makes it ideal for sensitive tummies. Lactose is the main carbohydrate with no starch and maltodextrin, making it nutritionally like breast milk and helping to reduce issues like colic, constipation, bloating, and gas.
Holle Goat Dutch Stage 1 is a gentle and nourishing formula designed for newborns from 0 to 6 month. Holle Goat Dutch Stage 2 is for 6+ months of age and contains a small amount of starch and maltodextrin, in addition to mainly lactose, to supply additional energy that your baby needs to support their rapid growth and development.
While Holle Goat Stage 2 is designed for newborns from 6+ months of age, Holle Goat Stage 3 is ideal for newborns from 10-12 months of age. Stage 3 contains slightly more starch and maltodextrin to supply additional energy that your baby needs to grow.
How to Best Prepare Holle Formulas
Whether preparing goat or cow milk-based formula, follow these tips for healthy preparation:
- Always make a fresh bottle of formula. Don't reuse any leftover formula.
- Clean bottles thoroughly. Boil the bottle and ring for 3-5 minutes before use.
- Boil and cool water. Boil fresh drinking water and let it cool to 40 to 50 degrees Celsius (104 to 122 degrees Fahrenheit). Add half of the required water to the bottle.
- Measure and Add Formula. Using measuring spoon, add formula powder as directed.
- Shake thoroughly. Seal the bottle and shake it thoroughly. Then add remaining water and shake again. Always make sure the formula is cool enough to drink. Typically 37 degrees celsius (98.6 degrees Fahrenheit) is deemed suitable. If you're unsure of the temperature, use a thermometer.
How do I Know Which Formula I Should Give My Baby?
Always consult with your pediatrician before giving your baby any type of formula. If your baby has no allergies and digests cow milk-based formula well, you should be able to give it to them. If you notice sensitivities or prefer goat milk for your baby, you may want to opt for this choice.
FAQ About Holle Formulas
Is goat milk formula better than cow milk?
One is not better than the other. Holle goat milk formula can be easier to digest, but both are good options for your baby.
Does Holle packaging contain BPAs?
All of Holle's packaging is BPA-free. The tin cans and pouches are also made from eco-friendly materials.
How long can I use the formula once the container has been opened?
Holle formula lasts for about two weeks after opening the container. Always store it in a cool dry place.
Final Thoughts
When thinking about giving your baby cow's milk formula versus goat milk formula, you need to consider whether they have digestive issues that can make goat milk-based formula easier to digest. Allergies can impact your decision as well. The texture and taste of the formula can be an issue, as some babies prefer one over the other.
Holle is an industry leader when it comes to making quality organic formula for babies from birth to beyond their first birthday. When you choose Holle products you are getting formula that is EU certified, and many products that carry the Demeter certification. This gives you peace of mind that your baby is receiving the best formula they can.
As you consider which type of formula to give your baby, always consult with your pediatrician. They can offer the best recommendations for your little one!
