Choosing a baby formula for your little one can be overwhelming. Whether you're looking down the formula aisle or browsing online, who knew there were so many choices for babies?
When it comes to baby formula, you want to be sure that what you're feeding your baby is the most nutritious and best formula you can find. This is why many parents choose organic European baby formula.
If you're trying to figure out which baby formula is best for your little one, let's look at why you may want to choose organic European baby formula over the rest.
What is Organic European Baby Formula?
Before we can dive into the reasons why you may want to choose organic European baby formula, you need to understand what you're buying.
When baby formula is listed as organic, its ingredients are grown and processed following strict organic standards. This means no fertilizers, herbicides, or synthetic pesticides. Baby formula that is not organic may include ingredients that are sourced from farms that don't follow those standards. This can include synthetic pesticides and other potentially harmful ingredients.
So, if organic baby formula contains pure ingredients that don't include pesticides and fertilizers, what makes European baby formula different? Here's where it gets interesting
Labels on U.S. "organic" baby formula may not necessarily mean all ingredients are 100% organic. The USDA has different classifications for organic food. Food can be 100% organic which means all ingredients are certified organic, or they can be labeled as "made with organic ingredients", meaning that at least 70% of ingredients are organic.
Here's another interesting fact about U.S. infant formula
In the U.S., the FDA is not specific about what ingredients are considered acceptable to be included in infant formula. As long as an ingredient is considered to be safe and does not include contaminants, it can be part of a baby formula blend. So, it is very common to see sucrose, GMO's, and other questionable ingredients listed on U.S. baby formula labels.
In Europe, however, organic baby formula has to follow the strict rules established by the European Union. European organic baby formulas must have at least 95% organic ingredients and at least 30% of the carbohydrates listed must be from lactose. There must also be no GMOs and no added sweeteners or corn syrup. DHA is also a mandatory ingredient for brain and eye development.
Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) is an important nutrient for brain development, while arachidonic acid (ARA) is essential for developing eyesight. Studies have shown that infants who receive formulas with both of these have increased cognitive development and better visual acuity than those who do not. While the U.S. does not require these ingredients in baby formula, the European Union does, making European formulas more similar to breast milk and more beneficial for babies.
Now that we have a better idea of what organic European baby formula is, here are 10 reasons why parents choose it over other products on the market.
Why Choose Organic European Baby Formula?
1. Meets Strict Standards
European baby formula has to meet strict standards if it wants to pass the test. It is some of the toughest testing and certifications in the world. Each included ingredient is tested to see if it meets organic standards, such as ensuring there are no contaminants and that the product meets nutritional requirements. It is also carefully packaged and stored to keep it pure and prevent any harmful substances from getting in.
The European Union has also banned the use of pesticides in baby foods, while the U.S. has not. This is partly due to the fact that the U.S. has a weaker regulatory system when it comes to pesticides. Many popular American infant formula brands have been shown to contain detectable levels of harmful pesticides, while European formula does not.
In Europe, there are also various certifications of infant formula, such as EU Organic, Bioland, and Demeter. Each clearly states the types of ingredients used and what manufacturers have to do to earn each label.
2. Uses Only the Best Ingredients
When you choose European organic baby formula, you can expect only the cleanest ingredients. Since products need to meet strict standards, you can rely on nutritious ingredients that will help with your baby's development. With no fillers or additives, parents feel good about what they are feeding their babies.
With European baby formulas, you're more likely to see whole grains used more frequently than soybeans or other common allergens. You'll also notice there are minimum and maximum levels for each nutrient to ensure that European baby formulas provide the healthiest option possible.
European baby formulas also use whey protein as one of its key ingredients. Whey protein is derived from milk. It is not only easy for babies to digest, but has also been shown to promote growth and development. You'll find that American baby formulas don't use whey protein. They use soy protein that can be difficult to digest and can lead to gastrointestinal issues in some babies.
3. No Artificial Sugars or Emulsifiers
European baby formula manufacturers avoid artificial sugars and emulsifiers that are still found in some U.S. products. This means no corn syrup, rice syrup, or sucrose. These ingredients have been studied for their link to obesity.
Instead of using these sweeteners, natural lactose is used as the primary sugar. This is found naturally in breast milk which is one of the reasons why it is the ingredient of choice. Lactose is also gentle on a baby's delicate digestive system.
Many emulsifiers, or thickeners, are banned in Europe due to their potential health risks. This is why they are not used in baby formula.
Some U.S. formulas use an ingredient called carrageenan as a thickener. Studies have raised concerns about how it may lead to inflammation and gastrointestinal issues, which is one of the reasons why it is banned in Europe.
4. Ethical Farming Practices
You can also rely on organic European baby formula to follow ethical farming practices to ensure healthier animals, and better milk quality as a result. Animals are treated humanely and allowed to graze freely. You can feel confident that there is milk production without synthetic hormones or antibiotics. As a result, you get a superior formula that is derived from humane and sustainable methods.
5. No GMOs or Harmful Additives
When choosing organic European baby formula, you'll notice that there are no genetically modified organisms (GMOs), preservatives, or artificial colors. A strict ban on GMOs ensures that your baby is not exposed to ingredients that can carry unknown long-term health problems.
With no harmful artificial sweeteners and a focus on natural lactose, as we mentioned above, you can feel confident that your baby is receiving formula that is good for them. Also, with transparent labeling, organic European baby formula products clearly state that there are no hidden chemicals or other additives.
6. Supports Healthy Digestion
Babies have delicate digestive systems that are still developing. While they are still developing, babies need to have a well-functioning digestive system for their overall health. The makers of organic European baby formula recognize this and make digestion support a priority.
Many European formulas contain probiotics to support gut health. This is essential for digestion. Some contain prebiotics for digestive support to promote the growth of good bacteria in the gut. This improves digestive health and can reduce the risk of constipation.
The ingredients used in European formula are gentle and easier for tiny tummies to process. There are also specialized formulas available for babies with specific digestive issues. This can help to reduce acid reflux, colic, and other common baby problems. Since there are no GMOs or synthetic additives, there are also fewer allergens found in organic European baby formulas which is always a plus!
7. High Nutritional Value
European baby formulas have a high nutritional value, full of vitamins and minerals that support healthy growth and bone development. These vitamins and minerals are the building blocks for your baby as they mature.
European baby formula includes essential nutrients like DHA and ARA as mentioned above as well as Omega-3 fatty acid, which is important for brain development. You'll also find prebiotics to support gut health and probiotics to help with digestion.
8. Designed to Mimic Breast Milk
European baby formula manufacturers strive to replicate the nutrition found in breast milk. They use lactose as its main ingredient and sweetener. You'll find that U.S. formulas use corn syrup and sucrose, which does not mimic the taste and consistency of breast milk.
European manufactures also strive to mimic breast milk by assuring that there are no synthetic preservatives or GMOs in their baby formula, additives that are commonly found in American formulas. When you buy European organic baby formula, you'll also find optimal iron levels that closely mimic breast milk. This makes it easier to absorb and leads to less constipation.
9. Advanced Research & Scientific Studies
As you do your homework about organic European baby formula, you will see that manufacturers look to advanced research to ensure that the best product is also delivered. They constantly test their products to ensure they are delivering only the best baby formulas.
For example, HiPP conducts detailed quality control tests in their accredited lab that is one of the best in Europe. By testing for more than 1,200 paramens, including nutritional content, and ingredient quality, they make a product that parents can feel good about giving their babies. They ensure that there are no contaminants and that each ingredient contains a nutritional value that babies can benefit from.
European baby formula manufacturers are always following cutting-edge technology so they are creating formulas that closely replicate breast milk. Ingredients are chosen and balanced to meet the needs of growing babies. European formula makers invest in research and development so that they can confidently produce products that are good for your baby.
10. Tailored to Specific Developmental Stages
When you really start to look at organic European baby formula, you'll see that there are formulas tailored to your baby's developmental stages. These stage-based formulas are aimed to ensure that your baby receives th. balance of nutrients for their age. We all know that the nutrients a 6-month-old needs are different from the needs of an infant. European baby formula makers recognize this and produce products to reflect the difference.
In Europe, stages for baby formula range from infants all the way through to 12 months and older. Since a newborn's digestive system is not yet fully developed, they need a specific formula that is easier to digest than a baby who is 12 months old. European formula manufacturers tweak their formulas so that each age range is receiving exactly what they need, when they need it.
As babies start to eat solid foods, their need for certain nutrients also changes. European baby manufacturers realize this and provide formula to meet those evolving needs. Since European baby formulas are more tailored to meet each baby's individual needs, they can better help babies be prepared for meeting important growth milestones.
Different Brands of European Organic Baby Formula and Their Features
When you choose organic European baby formula for all of the reasons listed above, you also have different brands to choose from, each with its unique features.
HiPP
For more than 80 years, HiPP formula has stood out among all European baby formulas because of its high quality and superior organic ingredients. It is made with organic cow's milk from healthy, grass-fed cows. There are no artificial additives, preservatives, or synthetic ingredients.
HiPP formula is also packed with important nutrients such as DHA, prebiotics, and probiotics. It is gentle for your baby's delicate tummy and is easy for them to digest. This is key for babies who may have tummy troubles and even for those who don't and just want to digest their formula well.
Holle
One of the many reasons why Holle is a premier organic European baby formula is because of its biodynamic farming practices. These surpass traditional organic farming practices.
Holle was established in 1933 and most of its products hold the prestigious Demeter certification. The raw ingredients are gently processed so that all of the nutritional goodness is preserved. Holle's formulas combine naturally occurring lactose with plant-based Maltodextrin to create a sweet formula blend.
While Holle's formulas are easy on the digestive system , there are also goat milk options available in addition to the cow's milk formulas. Goat milk can be easier for some babies to digest compared to cow's milk.
Kendamil
Kendamil is a family-run British brand of baby formula that stands out among European baby formulas because it uses whole milk as the main ingredient compared to skimmed milk. This offers a creamy formula that is still rich in nutrients. Kendamil formulas are also rich in Omega-3 and 6 fatty acids which are vital for baby's brain development and eye health.
Kendamil formulas use sustainable plant-based sources rather than fish oil. All of their formulas are also certified vegetarian. For over 50 years, Kendamil has also used locally-sourced organic ingredients from Red-Tractor farms in the English Lake District.
Lebenswert
Lebenswert baby formula is produced by Holle and is made in Germany. It is known for its commitment to containing only the highest quality organic ingredients. All formulas are free from preservatives, additives, and synthetic nutrients. With no artificial flavors, colors, soy, or corn syrup, you can feel confident that you're feeding your baby formula that is good for them.
Lebenswert products are also gentle on a baby's tummy and easy to digest. This can be extremely helpful for babies with colic, constipation, and gas. All Lebenswert formulas also contain important nutrients like DHA, vitamins, and minerals that support baby's growth and development.
The Bottom Line
As you do your homework about baby formula, you'll see that European organic baby formula manufacturers strive to provide the best products for your baby. Through strict testing, scientific research, and using the best ingredients, you can feel confident that what you're feeding your baby is the gold standard when it comes to baby formulas.
