FormulaSeek - Enfamil NeuroPro RTF vs Similac ProTotal Comfort RTF
Updated: 12/7/2024
Introduction
Choosing the right infant formula is a crucial decision for many parents who want to ensure their babies receive the necessary nutrients for optimal growth and development. With a plethora of options on the market, the decision can be overwhelming. Two popular choices are Enfamil NeuroPro RTF and Similac ProTotal Comfort RTF. Each brand offers unique formulations aimed at meeting the varied needs of infants. In this blog, we will delve deep into these two infant formulas to help parents make informed decisions.
Nutritional Composition
The nutritional composition of infant formulas is paramount, as it directly affects an infant's growth, development, and health. Let's compare Enfamil NeuroPro RTF and Similac ProTotal Comfort RTF:
Enfamil NeuroPro RTF boasts a blend of whey and casein proteins to mimic breast milk, offers lactose as its primary carbohydrate source, and incorporates a mix of vegetable oils including palm olein, coconut, soy, and sunflower oil for fats. It is enriched with DHA, a key omega-3 fatty acid, as well as a comprehensive mix of vitamins and minerals essential for infant development.
Similac ProTotal Comfort RTF features partially hydrolyzed whey protein for easier digestion, employs maltodextrin for its carbohydrate content, and a unique blend of oils including high oleic safflower, soy, and coconut oil. Like Enfamil, it is fortified with DHA along with a range of essential vitamins and minerals.
Key Differences
| Category | Enfamil NeuroPro RTF | Similac ProTotal Comfort RTF |
|---|---|---|
| Protein Source | Whey and Casein | Partially Hydrolyzed Whey |
| Carbohydrate Source | Lactose | Maltodextrin |
| Fat Source | Palm Olein, Coconut, Soy, Sunflower | High Oleic Safflower, Soy, Coconut |
| Prebiotics and Probiotics | No | Yes (2’-FL HMO prebiotic) |
| Omega-3 (DHA/ARA) Levels | Present | Present |
| Iron and Calcium Content | Standard | Standard |
| Estimated Cost per Ounce* | Approximately $0.21 | Approximately $0.19 |
| Organic or Non-GMO Certification | Non-GMO | Non-GMO |
*Note: Prices are estimated and may vary depending on location and retailer.
Special Features and Benefits
Each formula has distinct features designed to support baby health:
- Enfamil NeuroPro RTF: Known for its MFGM (Milk Fat Globule Membrane) composition, which is believed to support cognitive development similar to that achieved by breastfeeding.
- Similac ProTotal Comfort RTF: With its partially hydrolyzed proteins, it's particularly suitable for babies with sensitive stomachs. It also includes 2’-FL HMO (Human Milk Oligosaccharides), a prebiotic for digestive health.
Target Audience
Determining the right formula largely depends on an infant's specific needs:
- Enfamil NeuroPro RTF: Suitable for infants who are generally healthy and on a standard milk-based formula. The addition of MFGM makes it appealing for parents focused on cognitive development.
- Similac ProTotal Comfort RTF: Ideal for babies with nutritional sensitivities, such as lactose intolerance or digestive discomfort, thanks to its partially hydrolyzed protein.
Alternatives for Enfamil NeuroPro RTF
- Gerber Good Start Gentle
- Earth's Best Organic Infant Formula with Iron
- Happy Baby Organic Infant Formula
- Parent's Choice Gentle Formula
- Similac Advance Non-GMO Infant Formula
Alternatives for Similac ProTotal Comfort RTF
- Enfamil Gentlease
- Gerber Good Start SoothePro
- Parent's Choice Sensitivity Non-GMO
- Earth's Best Sensitivity Infant Formula
- Similac Alimentum
Potential Drawbacks
While both formulas offer numerous benefits, there are potential drawbacks:
- Enfamil NeuroPro RTF: Higher cost compared to some other formulas and contains palm olein oil, which may affect calcium absorption.
- Similac ProTotal Comfort RTF: The use of maltodextrin may raise dietary concerns for some parents, and partially hydrolyzed formulas can be costlier. Availability might also be a concern in some regions.
Conclusion
Both Enfamil NeuroPro RTF and Similac ProTotal Comfort RTF are excellent choices, tailored to meet different needs and preferences. Enfamil is optimal for parents looking for enhanced brain support, while Similac offers a gentler digestible option for sensitive babies. Always consult with a pediatrician to better understand what formula might be best suited for your child's unique nutritional needs.
Sources*
Buy Enfamil NeuroPro RTF Online
Buy Similac ProTotal Comfort 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 RTF | +/- | Data | +/- | Similac ProTotal Comfort RTF |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2.10 g | Fat | 3.30 | 5.40 g | |
| 11.30 g | 0.60 | Carbohydrate | 10.70 g | |
| 2.10 g | Protein | 0.22 | 2.32 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 RTF | +/- | Minerals | +/- | Similac ProTotal Comfort 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 | 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 | -17.00 | Sodium | 17.00 | 44.00 mg |
| 108.00 mg | -10.00 | Potassium | 10.00 | 118.00 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 RTF | +/- | Vitamin | +/- | Similac ProTotal Comfort RTF |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 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 | 0.50 | 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 |
| 12.00 mg | 3.00 | Vitamin C | -3.00 | 9.00 mg |
| 24.00 mg | 0.00 | Choline | 0.00 | 24.00 mg |
| 24.00 mg | 0.00 | Inositol | 0.00 | 24.00 mg |