When choosing formula for your baby, you want to pick one that will give them the most nutritional benefits and is also easy on their digestive system. If your baby isn't digesting their formula well, they may be missing out on all of the vitamins and minerals that their formula has to offer.
One of the many decisions parents have when it comes to giving their babies formula is choosing between cow milk and goat milk formulas. Each variety has its pros and cons. As a parent, you need to weigh these to determine which is best for your baby.
We're here to help you decide by providing you with all the information you need when it comes to cow and goat milk formulas. From the benefits to the disadvantages and some recommendations, this information will be useful to help you choose which path to take.
Let's get started!
Nutritional Differences Between Cow Milk Vs. Goat Milk Formulas
- Goat milk has smaller fat molecules. Smaller molecules means the fats in goat milk can be absorbed and digested more quickly
- Goat milk has less lactose. Less lactose can be beneficial for babies with mild lactose sensitivities, helping reduce gas, diarrhea, and fussiness.
- Goat milk is rich in minerals and protein. Goat milk is higher in calcium, potassium, and amino acids than cow milk.
- Goat Milk has A2 protein. A2 protein found in Goat milk is easier to digest and more similar to human milk.
Cow milk formula is made using cow's milk as its primary protein source while goat milk formula uses milk from a goat.
By law, goat milk and cow milk formulas must contain the essential nutrients your baby needs to grow and develop. While both contain the necessary nutrients, one may contain more of a particular nutrient than the other.
Main Milk Protein
Milk is composed of two main proteins, A1 and A2. Most cow's milk is made of A1, while goat milk has A2 proteins. A2 proteins are easier to digest than the A1 protein found in cow milk formula. This is because of the smaller and softer milk curds that the A2 proteins make. Goat milk is more similar to human milk, which is also made of A2 proteins. This makes it more similar to breast milk.
Fatty Acids
Goat milk-based formula contains more medium-chain fatty acids than cow milk-based formula. This is important when talking about the energy source for babies. Medium-chain fatty acids in goat milk are easier for the body to absorb and digest than long-chain fatty acids.
Lactose Content
Lactose is the primary carbohydrate found in breast milk. Some goat milk formula may have less lactose than cow's milk formula. This is because plain goat milk is naturally lower in lactose. If babies are sensitive to lactose, goat milk formula can be easier to digest than cow milk formula. But, it's important to note that you shouldn't give goat milk formula to a baby who is lactose intolerant because it still has enough lactose to cause digestive problems.
Mineral Levels
When talking about mineral levels between cow milk formula and goat milk formula, things get interesting. Plain cow's milk has more carbohydrates than plain goat milk. But, plain goat milk is higher in calcium, potassium, and amino acids. These amino acids are the building blocks of proteins, which are vital for growth and development.
While both formulas have the nutrients babies need, some parents opt for formulas that are higher in certain minerals. If you fall into this category, you'll want to read those labels to see which carries the mineral levels you want for your baby.
Benefits of Goat Milk Formula
Although many parents choose cow milk formula, others are drawn to goat milk. Here are some of the benefits it brings to the bottle:
- Goat milk is gentler on tummies. Goat milk formula is easier for babies to digest which is why it's often preferred for those with sensitive tummies.
- Goat milk formula is rich in nutrients. Goat milk is rich in calcium, phosphorus, and vitamins A, B2, and B12, just to name a few. These are essential for a baby's growth and development.
- Goat milk can be less allergenic. Since goat milk protein is structurally different from cow's milk protein, it poses less risk of allergies to babies. Also, Goat milk contains high levels of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory agents.
- Goat milk can promote the growth of healthy bacteria. One study indicated that the simple sugars that are present in goat milk-based formulas can help protect against gastrointestinal problems down the road. The prebiotics in goat milk-based formula can also be more effective at increasing beneficial gut bacteria than those found in cow's milk formula.
- Goat milk can help to absorb minerals like calcium and iron. There is some research to indicate that goat milk can improve the body's ability to absorb important minerals and vitamins. This is because of the smaller fat globules and higher level of medium-chain fatty acids that it contains.
- Some babies may prefer the taste of goat milk formulas. Goat milk tends to be creamier than cow's milk which can be appealing to some babies. This is especially true if your little one is transitioning from breast milk. Some babies find it has a milder taste as well. So, when it comes to taste, it's really going to depend from child to child.
Disadvantages of Goat Milk Formula
Before boarding the goat milk formula bus, it's also important to be aware of some of the disadvantages that come with it.
- It's not a fix for lactose intolerance. Some parents think they can give their babies goat milk formula if they are lactose intolerant. But, goat milk still has enough lactose to cause problems.
- It's fairly new compared to cow milk formula. While cow milk formula has been around for a very long time, goat milk formula is a fairly new option. The European Union approved goat milk protein for use in infant formula in 2012. Goat milk-based infant formulas were approved for use in the U.S. in 2023.
Goat Milk Formula Brands to Try
If you're looking for goat milk formulas to try, here are 3 to put on your list:
Holle Goat
Holle goat milk formula uses top-quality whole goat milk sourced from Demeter farms. Demeter has the strictest global organic standards when it comes to baby formula. You can count on a minimally-processed formula that is gentle on your baby's tummy and includes only essential nutrients for your baby's growth and development.
Kendamil Goat
Kendamil Goat provides the only full-cream goat milk formula in the United Kingdom. It is GMO-free and vegetarian, but not certified organic. Babies love the smooth, creamy texture it provides. Kendamil goat milk formula also contains 100% lactose at every stage. There is no starch, palm oil, or soy.
HiPP Goat
Another favorite, HiPP goat contains all of the essential vitamins and minerals your baby needs. It also contains prebiotics and is rich in Omega-3 fatty acids. It is GMO-free and contains no soy or added sugar.
Benefits of Cow Milk Formula
Now that we know the basic differences between cow milk and goat milk formula, let's take a closer look at the benefits of cow milk formula.
Why should you give your baby cow milk formula?
When it comes to formula, many parents start their babies on cow milk formula because most tolerate it well. Cow milk formula has been around for a long time and contains the essential vitamins and minerals that will support your baby's growth and development.
Many babies like the taste of cow milk formula because it's creamy and smooth. Also, if your baby is not lactose intolerant and is not allergic to cow milk protein, there's no reason why you can't give them cow milk formula.
It's also no secret that cow milk formula is less expensive than goat milk formula. This can be a deciding factor for some parents.
Disadvantages of Cow Milk Formula
While there are plenty of reasons to give your baby cow milk formula, there are also a couple of disadvantages to be aware of.
Possible Iron Deficiencies
Cow's milk is known to be low in iron. It is also difficult for the body to absorb the iron found in cow's milk, which can lead to an iron deficiency in some babies.
Allergies
As we mentioned above, some babies can be allergic to cow milk proteins or lactose. So, drinking cow milk formula can cause digestive problems and other issues.
Digestive Problems
Some babies experience digestive discomfort from drinking cow milk formula. This can lead to colic or constipation which results in one cranky baby!
Cow Milk Formula Brands to Try
You can find many European cow milk formula brands out there. Here are 3 of our top picks to try!
Holle Cow Milk Formula
Holle cow milk formula is a favorite because it has clean ingredients that babies digest well. It is also certified European organic, which is a huge bonus. If that wasn't enough, stages PRE to 3 also carry the prestigious Demeter certification.
HiPP Bio Combiotic
HiPP Bio Combiotic formulas contain skimmed cow's milk that is enriched with prebiotics from lactose. It also contains probiotics that are extracted from human milk which helps with digestion and immunity.
Kendamil Cow Milk Formula
Kendamil cow milk formulas are gentle on a baby's tummy and include EU-certified organic ingredients. You'll also find all of the essential nutrients your baby needs to grow and develop.
FAQ About Goat Milk vs. Cow Milk Formulas
Can I switch from goat formula to cow formula?
Always check with your pediatrician before switching your baby to any new type of formula. They will advise if it's the best step for your baby.
How to transition from cow milk formula to goat milk formula?
It can take some time for your baby to adjust to a new formula, so you'll want to do it gradually if you get the green light. Introduce the goat milk at one feeding and then gradually replace it with another feeding over several days. Eventually, you will replace all feedings with the goat milk formula. If you notice your baby is not reacting well, contact your pediatrician.
Is goat milk formula the same as hypoallergenic formula?
Goat milk and hypoallergenic formula are two different types of formula. Since goat milk contains proteins that are similar to cow's milk, it can still lead to reactions in babies who are allergic to cow's milk.
The Bottom Line
When comparing cow milk and goat milk formula, there are nutritional differences between the two that can influence which one you'll give your baby. It's important to do your homework and always consult your pediatrician before giving your baby a new formula. Once you decide which one is best for your baby, look at the different brands on the market. There are several good options that provide your baby with the nutrients they need to grow and develop.
