FormulaSeek - Earth's Best Gentle Infant Formula vs Enfamil Sensitive Infant Formula
Updated: 12/7/2024
Introduction
Choosing the right infant formula is a critical decision for many parents, especially when breastfeeding is not an option. Infant formulas are designed to provide essential nutrition during a baby's first months, closely mimicking the nutrient profile of human milk. Two popular choices in the market are Enfamil Sensitive Infant Formula and Earth's Best Gentle Infant Formula. Each formula is specially designed to cater to specific needs of babies. This article provides an in-depth comparison to help you make an informed decision.
Nutritional Composition
The nutritional composition of an infant formula is crucial to meeting the dietary requirements of a growing child. Below, we'll compare these two formulas in terms of protein, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals.
Enfamil Sensitive Infant Formula contains proteins primarily in the form of partially hydrolyzed whey protein, making it easily digestible for sensitive tummies. Its carbohydrate source is reduced lactose to accommodate lactose-sensitive babies. It includes a blend of fats, such as palm olein oil, soy oil, and coconut oil, providing essential fatty acids. The formula is fortified with various vitamins and minerals, including vitamin D, calcium, and iron.
Earth's Best Gentle Infant Formula, on the other hand, uses a whey-to-casein ratio that more closely resembles breast milk. Its carbohydrate source is mostly lactose, which is gentler for most babies. The fat content primarily comes from palm oil, soy oil, coconut oil, and safflower oil, catering to infants with digestive challenges. This formula also contains a plethora of vitamins and minerals, fortifying an infant's overall nourishment.
Key Differences
| Criteria | Enfamil Sensitive | Earth's Best Gentle |
|---|---|---|
| Protein Source | Partially hydrolyzed whey | Whey/Casein (20/80 blend) |
| Carbohydrate Source | Reduced lactose | Lactose |
| Fat Source | Palm olein, soy, coconut oil | Palm, safflower, soy, coconut oil |
| Prebiotics and Probiotics | No | Yes (Lactobacillus rhamnosus) |
| Omega-3 (DHA/ARA) Levels | Includes DHA & ARA | Includes DHA & ARA |
| Iron Content | 1.8 mg/5 fl oz | 1.9 mg/5 fl oz |
| Calcium Content | 63 mg/5 fl oz | 76 mg/5 fl oz |
| Estimated Cost per Ounce | $0.20 | $0.25 |
| Organic or Non-GMO Certification | Non-GMO | Organic, Non-GMO |
Special Features and Benefits
Enfamil Sensitive Infant Formula is particularly beneficial for infants with lactose sensitivity. The partially hydrolyzed proteins are easier to digest, which might help reduce fussiness, gas, or crying. Additionally, the addition of DHA can support brain development.
Earth's Best Gentle Infant Formula stands out due to its organic certification and inclusion of probiotics, which can improve gut health and boost immunity in infants. It's specifically designed to mimic breast milk, offering a more natural feeding experience.
Target Audience
Enfamil Sensitive is likely suited for babies prone to lactose sensitivity or digestive discomfort. It's ideal for parents searching for a formula that can minimize feeding issues.
Earth's Best Gentle caters to infants whose parents prefer organic products and wish to incorporate probiotics for better digestive health. It's also suitable for babies who adapt well to lactose-based products.
Alternatives
Alternatives for Enfamil Sensitive
- Similac Sensitive
- Gerber Good Start Soothe
- Happy Baby Organic Sensitive
- Parent's Choice Sensitivity
- Up & Up Sensitivity
Alternatives for Earth's Best Gentle
- Similac Organic
- Happy Baby Organic
- Plum Organics Grow Well Organic Gentle
- Holle Organic Infant Formula
- Baby’s Only Organic Dairy
Potential Drawbacks
Enfamil Sensitive might be more expensive for some families and may lack the organic certifications that certain parents may prioritize. Additionally, some parents report concerns about palm olein oil's digestion impacts.
Earth's Best Gentle's higher cost may be a barrier for budget-conscious families. Moreover, the inclusion of palm oil has been a controversial ingredient due to its potential impact on fat and calcium absorption.
Conclusion
Both Enfamil Sensitive and Earth's Best Gentle Infant Formulas offer specialized formulations to cater to different infant needs. Enfamil Sensitive is ideal for lactose-sensitive infants seeking a non-GMO option. In contrast, Earth's Best provides a certified organic formula with added probiotics aimed at overall infant health. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your baby’s unique dietary needs and your family's priorities. Remember to consult with a pediatrician before making any definitive decision on infant formula to ensure it aligns with your baby’s health needs.
Sources*
Buy Earth's Best Gentle Infant Formula Online
Buy Enfamil Sensitive Infant Formula Online
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Nutrient comparison
| Earth's Best Gentle Infant Formula | +/- | Data | +/- | Enfamil Sensitive Infant Formula |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5.30 g | Fat | 5.30 g | ||
| 10.80 g | Carbohydrate | 0.10 | 10.90 g | |
| 2.30 g | 0.10 | Protein | 2.20 g | |
| 750.00 mg | 750.00 | Linoleic Acid | 0 |
Ingredient comparison
Items in the left column are unique to that formula, same for the right. Items in the middle are in both.
Minerals comparison
Items in the left column are unique to that formula, same for the right. Items in the middle are in both.
| Earth's Best Gentle Infant Formula | +/- | Minerals | +/- | Enfamil Sensitive Infant Formula |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 82.00 mg | -6.00 | Calcium | 6.00 | 88.00 mg |
| 46.00 mg | -13.00 | Phosphorus | 13.00 | 59.00 mg |
| 8.00 mg | 0.00 | Magnesium | 0.00 | 8.00 mg |
| 1.80 mg | 0.00 | Iron | 0.00 | 1.80 mg |
| 1.00 mg | 0.00 | Zinc | 0.00 | 1.00 mg |
| 15.00 mcg | 0.00 | Manganese | 0.00 | 15.00 mcg |
| 75.00 mcg | 0.00 | Copper | 0.00 | 75.00 mcg |
| 15.00 mcg | 0.00 | Iodine | 0.00 | 15.00 mcg |
| 2.80 mcg | 0.00 | Selenium | 0.00 | 2.80 mcg |
| 36.00 mg | 3.00 | Sodium | -3.00 | 33.00 mg |
| 108.00 mg | -2.00 | Potassium | 2.00 | 110.00 mg |
| 63.00 mg | -4.00 | Chloride | 4.00 | 67.00 mg |
Vitamins comparison
Vitamins from both formulas are listed in the center. If they exist in a formula they will have a value next to them. The difference will be show under the +/- column for easy visibility.
| Earth's Best Gentle Infant Formula | +/- | Vitamin | +/- | Enfamil Sensitive Infant Formula |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 300.00 IU | 0.00 | Vitamin A | 0.00 | 300.00 IU |
| 60.00 IU | -10.00 | Vitamin D | 10.00 | 70.00 IU |
| 2.00 IU | 0.00 | Vitamin E | 0.00 | 2.00 IU |
| 9.00 mcg | 0.00 | Vitamin K | 0.00 | 9.00 mcg |
| 80.00 mcg | 0.00 | Thiamin (Vit B1) | 0.00 | 80.00 mcg |
| 140.00 mcg | 0.00 | Riboflavin (Vit B2) | 0.00 | 140.00 mcg |
| 60.00 mcg | 0.00 | Vitamin B6 | 0.00 | 60.00 mcg |
| 0.30 mcg | 0.00 | Vitamin B12 | 0.00 | 0.30 mcg |
| 16.00 mcg | 0.00 | Folic Acid | 0.00 | 16.00 mcg |
| 500.00 mcg | 0.00 | Pantothenic Acid | 0.00 | 500.00 mcg |
| 3.00 mcg | 0.00 | Biotin | 0.00 | 3.00 mcg |
| 12.00 mg | 0.00 | Vitamin C | 0.00 | 12.00 mg |
| 24.00 mg | 0.00 | Choline | 0.00 | 24.00 mg |
| 6.00 mg | -18.00 | Inositol | 18.00 | 24.00 mcg |
| 1000.00 mcg | 0.00 | Niacin | 0.00 | 1000.00 mcg |