FormulaSeek - Enfamil NeuroPro vs Similac 360 Total Care RTF
Updated: 12/7/2024
Introduction
Choosing the right infant formula is an essential decision for parents who cannot, or choose not to, breastfeed. The right formula can provide the necessary nutrients that support a baby's growth and development, simulating the nutritious components of breast milk as closely as possible. Two popular options currently available are Similac 360 Total Care Ready-to-Feed (RTF) and Enfamil NeuroPro. This blog post aims to compare and contrast these two leading infant formulas to help parents make informed choices.
Nutritional Composition
Both Similac 360 Total Care RTF and Enfamil NeuroPro offer unique nutritional benefits. Similac 360 Total Care RTF is designed to deliver a comprehensive nutrition profile, closely resembling that of human breast milk. It typically features a blend of high-quality proteins, essential fats, and vital vitamins and minerals. Enfamil NeuroPro, on the other hand, highlights its inclusion of brain-building omega-3 DHA and is specifically enriched with additional nutrients aimed at supporting neurological development. Here’s a deeper dive into their nutritional components:
- Protein Type: Similac uses a whey-dominant protein blend, whereas Enfamil boasts a mix of both whey and casein.
- Carbohydrates: Similac 360 largely relies on lactose as a carbohydrate source, while Enfamil includes a mix of lactose and maltodextrin.
- Fat Sources: Similac incorporates a combination of oils, such as palm olein oil and soy oil, while Enfamil opts for a mix that includes a higher proportion of palm oil.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Both formulas come fortified with essential vitamins and minerals needed for growth, such as Vitamin D, calcium, and iron.
Key Differences
| Feature | Similac 360 Total Care RTF | Enfamil NeuroPro |
|---|---|---|
| Protein Source | Whey-dominant | Whey and Casein |
| Carbohydrate Source | Lactose | Lactose and Maltodextrin |
| Fat Source | Palm Olein and Soy Oil | Palm Oil |
| Prebiotics and Probiotics | Contains Prebiotics | Contains Prebiotics |
| Omega-3 (DHA/ARA) Levels | Standard Levels | Enhanced Levels |
| Iron and Calcium Content | Standard Levels | Standard Levels |
| Estimated Cost per Ounce | $0.14/ounce | $0.16/ounce |
| Organic or Non-GMO Certification | Non-GMO | Non-GMO |
Special Features and Benefits
Similac 360 Total Care RTF is known for its unique blend designed to support a baby's immune and digestive systems. It often includes added prebiotics that help promote gut health. Enfamil NeuroPro stands out with its brain-supporting nutrients, particularly enriched Omega-3 (DHA), which plays a critical role in cognitive development.
Target Audience
Both formulas cater to a range of needs, but specific groups might benefit more from particular features. Similac 360 Total Care RTF can be particularly beneficial for babies who may have a sensitive stomach or mild lactose sensitivity, as it is formulated with easily digestible proteins. Enfamil NeuroPro, on the other hand, may cater to parents particularly focused on neurological and cognitive development in their infants, thanks to its enriched DHA content.
Alternatives
Alternatives to Similac 360 Total Care RTF
- Gerber Good Start Gentle
- Earth’s Best Organic Dairy Infant Powder
- Kirkland Signature ProCare Non-GMO Infant Formula
- Happy Baby Organic Infant Formula
- Plum Organics Grow Well Infant Formula
Alternatives to Enfamil NeuroPro
- Gerber Good Start SoothePro
- Happy Baby Organic Infant Formula
- Earth’s Best Organic Sensitivity Infant Formula
- Parent's Choice Infant Formula
- Similac Pro-Advance
Potential Drawbacks
Similac 360 Total Care RTF and Enfamil NeuroPro both have potential limitations. Similac 360 may be more costly than other options and is available primarily in ready-to-feed formats, which might not be ideal for parents who prefer powdered formulas. Meanwhile, Enfamil NeuroPro might also be on the higher end of the price spectrum and contains ingredients that some parents might find controversial, such as palm oil.
Conclusion
Choosing the right infant formula is crucial for your child's development and health. Similac 360 Total Care RTF and Enfamil NeuroPro both offer unique benefits, from digestive health to cognitive development support. Similac 360 Total Care RTF might be a better choice for babies with sensitive stomachs, while Enfamil NeuroPro is ideal for parents looking to enhance brain development nutrients. Always consult with a pediatrician to ensure you're choosing the best option for your baby's specific needs.
Sources*
Buy Enfamil NeuroPro Online
Buy Similac 360 Total Care RTF Online
+ Links are reviewed periodically for accuracy; failing links might mean the product is currently unavailable.
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Nutrient comparison
| Enfamil NeuroPro | +/- | Data | +/- | Similac 360 Total Care RTF |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5.30 g | Fat | 0.10 | 5.40 g | |
| 11.30 g | 0.30 | Carbohydrate | 11.00 g | |
| 2.10 g | 1.03 | Protein | 1.07 g | |
| 780.00 mg | Linoleic Acid | 220.00 | 1000.00 mg |
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.
| Enfamil NeuroPro | +/- | Minerals | +/- | Similac 360 Total Care RTF |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 78.00 mg | 0.00 | Calcium | 0.00 | 78.00 mg |
| 43.00 mg | 1.00 | Phosphorus | -1.00 | 42.00 mg |
| 8.00 mg | 2.00 | Magnesium | -2.00 | 6.00 mg |
| 1.80 mg | 0.00 | Iron | 0.00 | 1.80 mg |
| 1.00 mg | 0.25 | Zinc | -0.25 | 0.75 mg |
| 15.00 mcg | 10.00 | Manganese | -10.00 | 5.00 mcg |
| 75.00 mcg | -15.00 | Copper | 15.00 | 90.00 mcg |
| 15.00 mcg | 0.00 | Iodine | 0.00 | 15.00 mcg |
| 2.80 mcg | 0.80 | Selenium | -0.80 | 2.00 mcg |
| 27.00 mg | 3.00 | Sodium | -3.00 | 24.00 mg |
| 108.00 mg | 3.00 | Potassium | -3.00 | 105.00 mg |
| 63.00 mg | -2.00 | Chloride | 2.00 | 65.00 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.
| Enfamil NeuroPro | +/- | Vitamin | +/- | Similac 360 Total Care RTF |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 300.00 IU | 0.00 | Vitamin A | 0.00 | 300.00 IU |
| 70.00 IU | 61.00 | Vitamin C | -61.00 | 9.00 mg |
| 2.00 IU | 0.50 | Vitamin E | -0.50 | 1.50 IU |
| 9.00 mcg | 1.00 | Vitamin K | -1.00 | 8.00 mcg |
| 80.00 mcg | -20.00 | Thiamin (Vit B1) | 20.00 | 100.00 mcg |
| 140.00 mcg | -10.00 | Riboflavin (Vit B2) | 10.00 | 150.00 mcg |
| 60.00 mcg | 0.00 | Vitamin B6 | 0.00 | 60.00 mcg |
| 0.30 mcg | 0.05 | Vitamin B12 | -0.05 | 0.25 mcg |
| 1000.00 mcg | -50.00 | Niacin | 50.00 | 1050.00 mcg |
| 16.00 mcg | 1.00 | Folic Acid | -1.00 | 15.00 mcg |
| 500.00 mcg | 50.00 | Pantothenic Acid | -50.00 | 450.00 mcg |
| 3.00 mcg | -1.40 | Biotin | 1.40 | 4.40 mcg |
| 24.00 mg | 0.00 | Choline | 0.00 | 24.00 mg |
| 24.00 mg | 0.00 | Inositol | 0.00 | 24.00 mg |