FormulaSeek - Enfamil NeuroPro RTF vs Enfamil Nutramigen


Updated: 12/7/2024


Introduction

Choosing the right infant formula is an essential decision for parents who cannot breastfeed or choose to supplement breastfeeding. The formula selected needs to provide adequate nutrition to support the baby’s growth and development. Two popular choices among parents are Enfamil NeuroPro RTF and Enfamil Nutramigen. Each of these formulas has unique attributes tailored to different nutritional needs and sensitivities.

Nutritional Composition

Enfamil NeuroPro RTF (Ready-To-Feed) is designed to support brain development and includes key nutrients such as DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) and ARA (arachidonic acid). It typically includes a combination of proteins, carbohydrates, and fats that closely mimic breast milk. Proteins are primarily whey, with lactose as its primary carbohydrate, and fats sourced from a variety of oils including palm and olein oil. Enfamil Nutramigen, on the other hand, is a hypoallergenic formula ideal for infants with cow's milk protein allergies. It features extensively hydrolyzed proteins that are easier to digest. Corn syrup solids often serve as the carbohydrate source, while its fat blend might include high-linoleic safflower oil and other non-dairy sources.

Key Differences

Feature Enfamil NeuroPro RTF Enfamil Nutramigen
Protein Source 50:50 whey-to-casein Extensively hydrolyzed casein
Carbohydrate Source Lactose Corn syrup solids
Fat Source Palm oil, coconut oil Safflower oil, coconut oil
Prebiotics and Probiotics Prebiotics None
Omega-3 (DHA/ARA) Levels Contains DHA/ARA Contains DHA/ARA
Iron and Calcium Content Higher in iron and calcium Moderate levels
Estimated Cost per Ounce Approx. $0.20 (Price may vary) Approx. $0.40 (Price may vary)
Organic or Non-GMO Non-GMO Non-GMO

Special Features and Benefits

Enfamil NeuroPro is enriched with a brain-building blend of DHA and dual prebiotics designed to support immune health, closely mimicking the benefits of breast milk. The prebiotics help feed good bacteria in the infant's gut, promoting a healthy digestive system. Enfamil Nutramigen has the distinction of being highly effective in resolving colic shown due to cow's milk allergy, within just 48 hours. Its specialized formulation suits infants with heightened sensitivities, and its hypoallergenic nature reduces the likelihood of allergic reactions.

Target Audience

Enfamil NeuroPro RTF is ideal for infants who are exclusively formula-fed or supplemented with formula to support overall brain development and digestion. Conversely, Enfamil Nutramigen is specifically targeted at infants with cow's milk allergies or those experiencing colic due to digestion-related discomforts. It’s formulated to ease the symptoms of these conditions with its hypoallergenic ingredients.

Alternatives to Enfamil NeuroPro RTF

1. Similac Pro-Advance 2. Earth's Best Organic Dairy Infant Formula 3. Gerber Good Start Gentle 4. Happy Baby Organic Infant Formula 5. Plum Organics Grow Well Infant Formula

Alternatives to Enfamil Nutramigen

1. Similac Alimentum 2. Gerber Extensive HA 3. HiPP Anti-Reflux Formula 4. EleCare Infant Formula 5. Neocate Syneo Infant

Potential Drawbacks

Enfamil NeuroPro RTF can be on the pricier side which could deter some parents, and there may be concerns regarding the inclusion of palm oil, which some experts criticize for affecting fat absorption. Enfamil Nutramigen, although effective for sensitive stomachs and allergies, is significantly more expensive than standard formulas. This higher cost can be prohibitive for some families. Additionally, it does not contain added prebiotics or probiotics which are beneficial for gut health.

Conclusion

Both Enfamil NeuroPro RTF and Enfamil Nutramigen offer specialized benefits catering to specific infant needs. While NeuroPro supports brain development with DHA and prebiotics, Nutramigen provides a safe, hypoallergenic option for infants with sensitivities and allergies. When deciding, parents should consider the specific nutrition and health needs of their baby and consult with a pediatrician to make an informed choice. Ultimately, the right choice ensures the happiness and health of their little one.

Sources*

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Nutrient comparison

Enfamil NeuroPro RTF +/- Data +/- Enfamil Nutramigen
2.10 g Fat 3.20 5.30 g
11.30 g 1.00 Carbohydrate 10.30 g
2.10 g Protein 0.70 2.80 g
780.00 mg Linoleic Acid 780.00 mg

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 RTF +/- Minerals +/- Enfamil Nutramigen
78.00 mg -16.00 Calcium 16.00 94.00 mg
42.00 mg -10.00 Phosphorus 10.00 52.00 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 -10.00 Manganese 10.00 25.00 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
27.00 mg -20.00 Sodium 20.00 47.00 mg
108.00 mg -2.00 Potassium 2.00 110.00 mg
63.00 mg -23.00 Chloride 23.00 86.00 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 RTF +/- Vitamin +/- Enfamil Nutramigen
24.00 mg Inositol
300.00 IU 0.00 Vitamin A 0.00 300.00 IU
70.00 IU 10.00 Vitamin D -10.00 60.00 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 50.00 Riboflavin (Vit B2) -50.00 90.00 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
1000.00 mcg 0.00 Niacin 0.00 1000.00 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 mg
12.00 mg 0.00 Vitamin C 0.00 12.00 mg
24.00 mg 0.00 Choline 0.00 24.00 mg