FormulaSeek - Enfamil Nutramigen RTF vs Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive
Updated: 12/7/2024
Introduction
Choosing the right infant formula for your baby is a critical decision, as it impacts their nutrition, growth, and development. Given the myriad options available, every parent needs to understand the nutritional benefits and target audience of various formulas. Two popular choices among parents are Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive and Enfamil Nutramigen RTF. While both have been formulated to cater to babies with specific needs, they each offer unique benefits and composition.
Nutritional Composition
When comparing infant formulas, examining their nutritional components is essential. Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive features proteins that are partially hydrolyzed for easier digestion. Its carbohydrate source primarily includes reduced lactose, making it suitable for lactose-sensitive infants. It incorporates a mix of vegetable oils, excluding palm oil, which is appealing to parents concerned about palm oil's environmental impact.
On the other hand, Enfamil Nutramigen RTF is known for its extensively hydrolyzed proteins, making it ideal for babies with cow's milk protein allergy. Its carbohydrate profile comprises corn syrup solids, while its fat source includes a combination of oils, among which palm oil is present. Enfamil also contains added DHA and ARA to support brain development.
Key Differences
| Feature | Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive | Enfamil Nutramigen RTF |
|---|---|---|
| Protein Source | Partially hydrolyzed whey | Extensively hydrolyzed casein |
| Carbohydrate Source | Reduced lactose | Corn syrup solids |
| Fat Source | Vegetable oils (no palm oil) | Oils including palm oil |
| Prebiotics and Probiotics | Prebiotics present | No prebiotics/probiotics |
| Omega-3 (DHA/ARA) Levels | Included | Enhanced levels |
| Iron and Calcium Content | Moderate | High |
| Estimated Cost per Ounce | $0.50* (est.) | $0.80* (est.) |
| Organic or Non-GMO Certification | Non-GMO | Non-GMO |
Special Features and Benefits
Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive’s key features include its partially hydrolyzed protein which is easier for sensitive stomachs to digest, and its prebiotics which promote beneficial gut bacteria. It's ideal for babies with mild lactose sensitivity.
Enfamil Nutramigen RTF stands out with its extensively hydrolyzed proteins, effectively breaking down allergens for babies with cow’s milk allergies. Its enhanced DHA and ARA levels are beneficial for cognitive and visual development.
Target Audience
Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive is designed for infants experiencing sensitivity to lactose, thereby providing a gentle nutrition option. Enfamil Nutramigen RTF caters to babies with severe cow's milk protein allergy or intolerances, as well as those requiring extensive protein hydrolysis.
Alternatives
Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive Alternatives
- Similac Sensitive Non-GMO
- Earth's Best Organic Sensitivity Infant Formula
- Gerber Good Start Gentle
- Happy Baby Organic Infant Formula
- Parent's Choice Sensitivity Formula
Enfamil Nutramigen RTF Alternatives
- Similac Alimentum Ready-to-Feed
- Gerber Extensive HA
- Alimentum Hypoallergenic Baby Formula
- Earth’s Best Organic Dairy Infant Formula
- Neocate Infant DHA/ARA
Potential Drawbacks
While Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive provides effective nutrition for lactose-sensitive infants, its price may be a deterrent for families on a tight budget. Additionally, concerns include the lack of probiotics, which could benefit gut health.
Enfamil Nutramigen RTF, though excellent for allergies, is one of the costlier formulas due to its specialized production process. It also contains palm oil, which may concern some parents due to its potential impact on nutrient absorption and environmental concerns.
Conclusion
Both Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive and Enfamil Nutramigen RTF present valuable options depending on your baby's specific nutritional needs. Similac is well-suited for those with lactose sensitivities, while Enfamil's formulation is ideal for severe allergies. It's crucial to consult with a pediatrician to determine the best formula for your little one's unique requirements.
*Note: Prices are estimates and may vary by retailer and location.
Sources*
Buy Enfamil Nutramigen RTF Online
Buy Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive Online
+ Links are reviewed periodically for accuracy; failing links might mean the product is currently unavailable.
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Nutrient comparison
| Enfamil Nutramigen RTF | +/- | Data | +/- | Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5.30 g | Fat | 0.10 | 5.40 g | |
| 10.30 g | Carbohydrate | 0.60 | 10.90 g | |
| 2.80 g | 0.70 | Protein | 2.10 g | |
| 860.00 mg | Linoleic Acid | 140.00 | 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 Nutramigen RTF | +/- | Minerals | +/- | Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 94.00 mg | 10.00 | Calcium | -10.00 | 84.00 mg |
| 52.00 mg | -4.00 | Phosphorus | 4.00 | 56.00 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 |
| 25.00 mcg | 20.00 | Manganese | -20.00 | 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 |
| 47.00 mg | 17.00 | Sodium | -17.00 | 30.00 mg |
| 110.00 mg | 3.00 | Potassium | -3.00 | 107.00 mg |
| 86.00 mg | 21.00 | Chloride | -21.00 | 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 Nutramigen RTF | +/- | Vitamin | +/- | Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 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 | 0.50 | 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 |
| 90.00 mcg | -60.00 | Riboflavin (Vit B2) | 60.00 | 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 |
| 17.00 mg | -7.00 | Inositol | 7.00 | 24.00 mg |