FormulaSeek - Enfamil Nutramigen RTF vs Enfamil PurAmino Hypoallergenic
Updated: 12/7/2024
Introduction
Choosing the right infant formula is an essential decision for parents who either supplement breastfeeding with formula or rely entirely on formula to nourish their infants. Two popular choices are Enfamil Nutramigen Ready-to-Feed (RTF) and Enfamil PurAmino Hypoallergenic, both designed to meet specific dietary needs. Understanding these formulas can help parents make informed decisions for their babies’ unique requirements.
Nutritional Composition
Both Enfamil Nutramigen RTF and Enfamil PurAmino Hypoallergenic formulas are crafted to provide complete nutrition for infants, though they differ in several nutritional components:
Protein Type: Nutramigen uses extensively hydrolyzed casein protein which is broken down for easier digestion, while PurAmino relies on free amino acids, making it ideal for infants with severe allergies.
Carbohydrates: Both formulas typically use corn syrup solids as a carbohydrate source, although the specific compositions may vary slightly.
Fats: The fat blend in these formulas may consist of palm olein, coconut, soy, and safflower oils, formulated to mimic the fatty acid profile of breast milk.
Vitamins and Minerals: Both formulas are fortified with essential vitamins and minerals; however, the levels might differ to cater to the specific needs of their target users.
Key Differences
| Feature | Enfamil Nutramigen RTF | Enfamil PurAmino Hypoallergenic |
|---|---|---|
| Protein Source | Extensively hydrolyzed casein | Free amino acids |
| Carbohydrate Source | Corn syrup solids | Corn syrup solids |
| Fat Source | Palm olein, soy, coconut, safflower oil | Palm olein, soy, coconut, safflower oil |
| Prebiotics and Probiotics | Probiotics present (L. rhamnosus GG) | Not present |
| Omega-3 (DHA/ARA) Levels | Present | Higher content than Nutramigen |
| Iron and Calcium Content | Standard | Higher to support bone health |
| Estimated Cost per Ounce | Estimated $0.20 | Estimated $0.45 |
| Organic or Non-GMO | Non-GMO | Non-GMO |
Special Features and Benefits
Enfamil Nutramigen RTF is particularly noted for its inclusion of probiotics (specifically, L. rhamnosus GG), which can contribute to better gastrointestinal health and strengthened immune system. On the other hand, Enfamil PurAmino offers total nutrition for infants with severe allergies, as it comprises free amino acids that are the most hypoallergenic form of protein. It also contains a higher concentration of DHA, which is beneficial for brain development.
Target Audience
Enfamil Nutramigen RTF is best suited for babies with mild to moderate cow's milk protein allergies or lactose sensitivity. It is an excellent option for infants who need a formula that is easier to digest due to its hydrolyzed protein and probiotics. Enfamil PurAmino, on the other hand, targets infants who exhibit severe allergies to cow's milk protein, multiple food allergies, or conditions such as eosinophilic esophagitis. Its amino acid base makes it extremely hypoallergenic.
Alternatives to Enfamil Nutramigen RTF
- Similac Alimentum
- Gerber Extensive HA
- Earth's Best Organic Sensitivity
- Happy Baby Organics Sensitive
- Parent's Choice Hypoallergenic
Alternatives to Enfamil PurAmino
- Similac EleCare
- Neocate Infant DHA/ARA
- Nutricia Neocate LCP
- PurAmino Junior
- Alfamino Infant
Potential Drawbacks
One of the foremost concerns for Enfamil Nutramigen RTF users could be its taste, which might not be as palatable to some infants compared to standard formulas. Additionally, despite being more affordable than PurAmino, it can still be relatively costly for families relying exclusively on formula.
Enfamil PurAmino is even more expensive and may not be covered by insurance without a medical prescription, making it less accessible for some families. It is crucial to verify availability as not all pharmacies may stock it.
Conclusion
Both Enfamil Nutramigen RTF and Enfamil PurAmino Hypoallergenic offer significant benefits for infants with specific dietary needs. Nutramigen is ideal for mild to moderate allergies and lactose sensitivity, while PurAmino suits those with severe allergies. Given their purposes and nutritional profiles, parents should consult with pediatricians to decide the best option for their child’s health and well-being. It is also worth exploring insurance options or patient assistance programs to manage costs more effectively.
Sources*
Buy Enfamil Nutramigen RTF Online
Buy Enfamil PurAmino Hypoallergenic Online
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Nutrient comparison
| Enfamil Nutramigen RTF | +/- | Data | +/- | Enfamil PurAmino Hypoallergenic |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5.30 g | Fat | 5.30 g | ||
| 10.30 g | Carbohydrate | 0.30 | 10.60 g | |
| 2.80 g | Protein | 2.80 g | ||
| 860.00 mg | Linoleic Acid | 860.00 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 Nutramigen RTF | +/- | Minerals | +/- | Enfamil PurAmino Hypoallergenic |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 94.00 mg | -22.00 | Calcium | 22.00 | 116.00 mg |
| 52.00 mg | -12.00 | Phosphorus | 12.00 | 64.00 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 |
| 25.00 mcg | 0.00 | Manganese | 0.00 | 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 |
| 47.00 mg | 0.00 | Sodium | 0.00 | 47.00 mg |
| 110.00 mg | 0.00 | Potassium | 0.00 | 110.00 mg |
| 86.00 mg | 0.00 | Chloride | 0.00 | 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 Nutramigen RTF | +/- | Vitamin | +/- | Enfamil PurAmino Hypoallergenic |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 300.00 IU | 0.00 | Vitamin A | 0.00 | 300.00 IU |
| 50.00 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 |
| 90.00 mcg | 0.00 | Riboflavin (Vit B2) | 0.00 | 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 mcg |
| 12.00 mg | 0.00 | Vitamin C | 0.00 | 12.00 mg |
| 24.00 mg | 0.00 | Choline | 0.00 | 24.00 mg |
| 17.00 mg | -7.00 | Inositol | 7.00 | 24.00 mg |