FormulaSeek - Enfamil NeuroPro RTF vs Similac Alimentum RTF
Updated: 12/7/2024
Introduction
Choosing the right infant formula is one of the most crucial decisions for parents who are either unable to breastfeed or are looking for additional nutrition for their baby. With the myriad options available, it can be overwhelming to find a formula that meets your baby’s specific nutritional needs. This blog post will delve into two popular ready-to-feed (RTF) formulas: Similac Alimentum RTF and Enfamil NeuroPro RTF. Both are designed to support infant growth but cater to different nutritional needs.
Nutritional Composition
The nutritional composition of infant formulas varies based on the key ingredients that support different aspects of growth and health. Similac Alimentum RTF is particularly formulated with extensively hydrolyzed proteins for babies with severe food allergies. It mainly uses casein hydrolysate, ensuring the proteins are broken down to avoid allergic reactions. The carbohydrate source is corn maltodextrin. It includes a patented mix of oils, excluding palm oil, incorporating safflower and sugar oils.
On the other hand, Enfamil NeuroPro RTF contains a protein mix closer to traditional milk-based formulas, mainly consisting of non-hydrolyzed whey and casein. Its carbohydrate source is primarily lactose. This formula includes a fat source blend, including palm oil, coconut oil, and soy oil.
Key Differences
| Feature | Similac Alimentum RTF | Enfamil NeuroPro RTF |
|---|---|---|
| Protein Source | Extensively hydrolyzed casein | Non-hydrolyzed whey:casein ratio |
| Carbohydrate Source | Corn maltodextrin | Lactose |
| Fat Source | No palm oil, uses safflower and sugar oils | Palm oil, coconut oil, soy oil |
| Prebiotics and Probiotics | None | Presence of MFGM and prebiotics |
| Omega-3 (DHA/ARA) Levels | Moderate | Enhanced levels |
| Iron and Calcium Content | Moderate | Higher levels |
| Estimated Cost per Ounce | $0.50/ounce | $0.46/ounce |
| Organic or Non-GMO Certification | Non-GMO | Non-GMO |
Note: Prices are estimates and may vary based on location and retailer.
Special Features and Benefits
Similac Alimentum RTF is specially designed for infants who exhibit extreme sensitivity or allergies towards standard milk proteins. The hydrolyzed proteins and absence of palm oil can lead to easier digestion and reduced colic symptoms in some babies.
Enfamil NeuroPro RTF aims to support advanced cognitive development with the inclusion of milk fat globule membrane (MFGM) and DHA, which are critical components of breast milk. The presence of prebiotics also supports digestive and immune health.
Target Audience
Similac Alimentum RTF is targeted primarily at infants with severe allergies, intolerances, or those who have difficulty digesting intact proteins.
Enfamil NeuroPro RTF is suitable for infants who do not have dietary restrictions or specific allergies but may benefit parents looking for features that support brain development and general health enhancements.
Alternatives
Alternatives to Similac Alimentum RTF
- Nutramigen with Enflora LGG
- Gerber Extensive HA
- Similac Pro-Sensitive
- Perrigo Hypoallergenic Formula
- Alfara Infant Formula
Alternatives to Enfamil NeuroPro RTF
- Similac Pro-Advance
- Earth's Best Organic Infant Formula
- Gerber Good Start Gentle
- Happy Baby Organic Infant Formula
- Parent's Choice Advantage
Potential Drawbacks
For Similac Alimentum RTF, the potential drawbacks include higher cost and limited availability in some areas. Additionally, some may dislike the taste compared to other formulas.
Enfamil NeuroPro RTF may present concerns regarding the use of palm oil and a slightly higher DHA level that might not be suitable for all infants, and some might have issues with digesting lactose.
Conclusion
Both Similac Alimentum RTF and Enfamil NeuroPro RTF provide unique offerings tailored to specific infant needs. For babies with allergies or intolerances, Similac Alimentum RTF is a strong candidate, while Enfamil NeuroPro RTF stands out for its brain development-supporting ingredients. We recommend consulting with a pediatrician to determine which formula is best suited for your baby’s unique nutritional needs and ensure optimal health outcomes.
Sources*
Buy Enfamil NeuroPro RTF Online
Buy Similac Alimentum RTF Online
+ Links are reviewed periodically for accuracy; failing links might mean the product is currently unavailable.
Start here
Nutrient comparison
| Enfamil NeuroPro RTF | +/- | Data | +/- | Similac Alimentum RTF |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2.10 g | Fat | 3.44 | 5.54 g | |
| 11.30 g | 1.10 | Carbohydrate | 10.20 g | |
| 2.10 g | Protein | 0.65 | 2.75 g | |
| 780.00 mg | Linoleic Acid | 1120.00 | 1900.00 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 RTF | +/- | Minerals | +/- | Similac Alimentum RTF |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 78.00 mg | -27.00 | Calcium | 27.00 | 105.00 mg |
| 42.00 mg | -33.00 | Phosphorus | 33.00 | 75.00 mg |
| 8.00 mg | 0.50 | Magnesium | -0.50 | 7.50 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 | 7.00 | Manganese | -7.00 | 8.00 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 | 0.80 | Selenium | -0.80 | 2.00 mcg |
| 27.00 mg | -17.00 | Sodium | 17.00 | 44.00 mg |
| 108.00 mg | -10.00 | Potassium | 10.00 | 118.00 mg |
| 63.00 mg | -17.00 | Chloride | 17.00 | 80.00 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 | +/- | Similac Alimentum RTF |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 300.00 IU | 0.00 | Vitamin A | 0.00 | 300.00 IU |
| 70.00 IU | 25.00 | Vitamin D | -25.00 | 45.00 IU |
| 2.00 IU | -1.00 | Vitamin E | 1.00 | 3.00 IU |
| 9.00 mcg | -6.00 | Vitamin K | 6.00 | 15.00 mcg |
| 80.00 mcg | 20.00 | Thiamin (Vit B1) | -20.00 | 60.00 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 | -0.15 | Vitamin B12 | 0.15 | 0.45 mcg |
| 1000.00 mcg | -350.00 | Niacin | 350.00 | 1350.00 mcg |
| 16.00 mcg | 1.00 | Folic Acid | -1.00 | 15.00 mcg |
| 500.00 mcg | -250.00 | Pantothenic Acid | 250.00 | 750.00 mcg |
| 3.00 mcg | -1.50 | Biotin | 1.50 | 4.50 mcg |
| 12.00 mg | 3.00 | Vitamin C | -3.00 | 9.00 mg |
| 24.00 mg | 12.00 | Choline | -12.00 | 12.00 mg |
| 24.00 mg | 19.00 | Inositol | -19.00 | 5.00 mg |