FormulaSeek - Enfamil PurAmino Hypoallergenic vs Similac Advance
Updated: 12/7/2024
Introduction
Choosing the right infant formula is a crucial decision for parents who either choose not to breastfeed or are unable to. Infant formulas are designed to mimic the nutritional profile of human breast milk to ensure that babies receive the essential nutrients they need for growth and development. Among the numerous options available, two popular choices are Similac Advance and Enfamil PurAmino Hypoallergenic. Each of these formulas caters to different nutritional needs and sensitivities of infants.
Nutritional Composition
Similac Advance is a standard milk-based formula that contains a blend of proteins, carbohydrates, and fats similar to those found in breast milk. It typically uses a whey-to-casein ratio that mimics breast milk, and its main carbohydrate source is lactose. Similac Advance also includes a mix of vitamins and minerals essential for infant development.
Enfamil PurAmino Hypoallergenic, on the other hand, is a specialized formula designed for infants with severe food allergies or intolerances. It features extensively hydrolyzed protein from amino acids, making it easier for infants with sensitive digestive systems to tolerate. The carbohydrates are sourced from corn syrup solids, and it contains specialized fats to support growth and brain development.
Key Differences
| Feature | Similac Advance | Enfamil PurAmino Hypoallergenic |
|---|---|---|
| Protein Source | 20:80 whey-to-casein | 100% amino acids |
| Carbohydrate Source | Lactose | Corn syrup solids |
| Fat Source | Safflower oil, soy oil | Coconut oil, medium-chain triglycerides |
| Prebiotics and Probiotics | Prebiotics | None |
| Omega-3 (DHA/ARA) Levels | Standard levels | Enhanced levels |
| Iron and Calcium Content | Standard levels | Standard levels |
| Estimated Cost per Ounce | $0.18 - $0.20 | $0.50 - $0.60 |
| Organic or Non-GMO Certification | Non-GMO available | Non-GMO |
Note: Prices are estimated and can vary based on location and retailer.
Special Features and Benefits
Similac Advance is formulated with prebiotics to help support an infant’s immune system by encouraging the growth of beneficial gut bacteria. It also includes DHA and ARA, which are important for brain and eye development.
Enfamil PurAmino Hypoallergenic is unique in that it uses amino acids for its protein source, making it suitable for infants with severe allergies to milk proteins. This formula is also enriched with DHA and ARA, and MCT oils for easier digestion and absorption, especially useful for infants with malabsorption issues.
Target Audience
Similac Advance is ideal for healthy infants without specific dietary needs or intolerances. It is designed to meet the nutritional requirements of most infants.
Enfamil PurAmino Hypoallergenic is especially designed for infants diagnosed with cow's milk protein allergies, multiple food protein intolerances, or those who require an amino acid-based, or hypoallergenic formula due to complex digestive or allergy needs.
Alternatives
Alternatives to Similac Advance
- Enfamil Premium Infant
- Gerber Good Start Gentle
- Earth’s Best Organic Infant Formula
- Happy Baby Organic Infant Formula
- Kirkland Signature ProCare Non-GMO Infant Formula
Alternatives to Enfamil PurAmino Hypoallergenic
- Similac Alimentum
- Nutramigen with Enflora LGG
- Neocate Infant DHA/ARA
- EleCare for Infants
- Gerber Extensive HA
Potential Drawbacks
Similac Advance can be limited by its suitability, as babies with lactose intolerance or cow's milk protein allergies might react adversely. The presence of palm oil and soy oil in some variants is also controversial.
Enfamil PurAmino’s main drawbacks are its higher cost and limited availability compared to more standard formulas. Additionally, the taste might not be pleasant to some infants, although this is subjective.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Similac Advance and Enfamil PurAmino Hypoallergenic are tailored for different infant needs. Similac Advance provides a comprehensive nutritional foundation for infants without special dietary restrictions, making it a versatile choice for many families. Conversely, Enfamil PurAmino Hypoallergenic is a specialized option suited for infants with severe allergies or intolerance to standard proteins.
It is always best to consult with a pediatrician before deciding on an infant formula to ensure it meets your baby's specific nutritional needs and health conditions.
Sources*
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Nutrient comparison
| Enfamil PurAmino Hypoallergenic | +/- | Data | +/- | Similac Advance |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5.30 g | Fat | 0.30 | 5.60 g | |
| 10.60 g | Carbohydrate | 0.10 | 10.70 g | |
| 2.80 g | 0.73 | Protein | 2.07 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 PurAmino Hypoallergenic | +/- | Minerals | +/- | Similac Advance |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 116.00 mg | 71.00 | Calcium | -71.00 | 45.00 mg |
| 64.00 mg | 22.00 | Phosphorus | -22.00 | 42.00 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 | 23.00 | Sodium | -23.00 | 24.00 mg |
| 110.00 mg | 5.00 | Potassium | -5.00 | 105.00 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 PurAmino Hypoallergenic | +/- | Vitamin | +/- | Similac Advance |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 300.00 IU | 0.00 | Vitamin A | 0.00 | 300.00 IU |
| 60.00 IU | 0.00 | Vitamin D | 0.00 | 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 |
| 24.00 mg | 0.00 | Inositol | 0.00 | 24.00 mg |