FormulaSeek - Enfamil Sensitive Infant Formula vs Similac NeoSure Post Discharge RTF


Updated: 12/7/2024


Introduction

Choosing the right infant formula is crucial for the growth and development of newborns, especially when breastfeeding isn't an option. With numerous formulas available on the market, parents must be well-informed to select the best option suited for their infant's specific needs. This blog post will provide an in-depth comparison between two popular formulas: Enfamil Sensitive Infant Formula and Similac NeoSure Post Discharge Ready-to-Feed (RTF). While Enfamil Sensitive is designed for infants with lactose sensitivity, Similac NeoSure is specially formulated for premature babies transitioning to home feeding.

Nutritional Composition

The nutritional composition of an infant formula determines its suitability for different health needs. Both Enfamil Sensitive and Similac NeoSure RTF have distinct compositions catering to specific requirements.

Enfamil Sensitive Infant Formula is crafted with an easy-to-digest protein mix and reduced lactose, making it a choice for lactose-sensitive infants. It includes:

  • Protein: Predominantly casein for sensitive stomachs.
  • Carbohydrates: Contains primarily corn syrup solids as a lactose-reducing agent.
  • Fats: Uses a blend of palm olein, coconut, soy, and high oleic sunflower oils.
  • Vitamins & Minerals: Complete with essential nutrients for overall growth, including vitamin E, calcium, and iron.

Similac NeoSure Post Discharge RTF is tailored for premature infants to support catch-up growth:

  • Protein: A mix of whey and casein for easy digestion.
  • Carbohydrates: Lactose as the primary carb, sourced from milk.
  • Fats: Includes a blend of high oleic safflower, soy, and coconut oils.
  • Vitamins & Minerals: Enriched with additional nutrients like DHA, lutein, and vitamin E to support brain and eye development.

Key Differences

Feature Enfamil Sensitive Similac NeoSure RTF
Protein Source Casein Whey and Casein
Carbohydrate Source Corn syrup solids Lactose
Fat Source Palm olein, coconut, soy, sunflower oils Safflower, soy, coconut oils
Prebiotics and Probiotics Prebiotics Not Specified
Omega-3 (DHA/ARA) Levels Yes Yes, with lutein
Iron and Calcium Content Adequate Enhanced
Estimated Cost per Ounce Approx. $0.19 Approx. $0.20
Organic or non-GMO Non-GMO Non-GMO

Special Features and Benefits

Enfamil Sensitive is particularly acclaimed for its gentle formulation that helps alleviate fussiness and gas in infants as it reduces lactose content. It supports overall immune health with prebiotics.

Similac NeoSure stands out with its enhanced nutrition focused on babies born prematurely, offering support for nutritional catch-up, brain development, and immune support with nutrients like DHA, and lutein.

Target Audience

Enfamil Sensitive fits well for infants with sensitivity to lactose that often results in fussiness and gas. Its unique formulation caters to babies with mild digestive issues.

Similac NeoSure is ideal for premature infants who require additional nutrients to support catch-up growth post-discharge. This formula ensures that tiny newborns get an extra boost necessary for development.

Alternatives

Alternatives to Enfamil Sensitive

  • Similac Pro-Sensitive
  • Gerber Good Start Soothe
  • Earth's Best Organic Sensitivity
  • Happy Baby Organic Infant Formula
  • Baby's Only Organic LactoRelief

Alternatives to Similac NeoSure

  • Enfamil EnfaCare
  • SMA Pro Prem 2
  • Nutriprem 2 (UK)
  • PreNan (Nestle, for preemies)
  • Aptamil Premature Formula (UK)

Potential Drawbacks

Enfamil Sensitive might not fully provide lactose-sensitive infants complete relief from gas or fussiness. Parents may also find its slightly higher price a concern.

Similac NeoSure, while beneficial for preemies, may not be readily available in all regions and can also be costlier compared to regular infant formulas. Parents should be informed of its tailored content and intended use.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Enfamil Sensitive is best suited for lactose-sensitive infants who experience gas and fussiness, whereas Similac NeoSure caters specifically to the nutritional needs of premature infants post-discharge. Both formulas are exceptional in their fields, yet parents should consider individual infant needs and consult with a pediatrician before making a decision. Choosing the right formula is not just about nutrition but also about ensuring your baby's comfort and health. Always consider factors like accessibility, specific nutritional requirements, and professional guidance.

Sources*

Buy Enfamil Sensitive Infant Formula Online

Buy Similac NeoSure Post Discharge RTF Online

+ Links are reviewed periodically for accuracy; failing links might mean the product is currently unavailable.

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Nutrient comparison

Enfamil Sensitive Infant Formula +/- Data +/- Similac NeoSure Post Discharge RTF
5.30 g Fat 0.20 5.50 g
10.90 g 0.80 Carbohydrate 10.10 g
2.20 g Protein 0.60 2.80 g
0 Linoleic Acid 750.00 750.00 mg

Minerals comparison

Items in the left column are unique to that formula, same for the right. Items in the middle are in both.

Enfamil Sensitive Infant Formula +/- Minerals +/- Similac NeoSure Post Discharge RTF
88.00 mg -17.00 Calcium 17.00 105.00 mg
59.00 mg -3.00 Phosphorus 3.00 62.00 mg
8.00 mg -1.00 Magnesium 1.00 9.00 mg
1.80 mg 0.00 Iron 0.00 1.80 mg
1.00 mg -0.20 Zinc 0.20 1.20 mg
15.00 mcg 5.00 Manganese -5.00 10.00 mcg
75.00 mcg -45.00 Copper 45.00 120.00 mcg
15.00 mcg 0.00 Iodine 0.00 15.00 mcg
2.80 mcg 0.50 Selenium -0.50 2.30 mcg
33.00 mg 0.00 Sodium 0.00 33.00 mg
110.00 mg -32.00 Potassium 32.00 142.00 mg
67.00 mg -8.00 Chloride 8.00 75.00 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 Sensitive Infant Formula +/- Vitamin +/- Similac NeoSure Post Discharge RTF
300.00 IU -50.00 Vitamin A 50.00 350.00 IU
70.00 IU 0.00 Vitamin D 0.00 70.00 IU
2.00 IU -1.60 Vitamin E 1.60 3.60 IU
9.00 mcg -2.00 Vitamin K 2.00 11.00 mcg
80.00 mcg -95.00 Thiamin (Vit B1) 95.00 175.00 mcg
140.00 mcg -10.00 Riboflavin (Vit B2) 10.00 150.00 mcg
60.00 mcg -40.00 Vitamin B6 40.00 100.00 mcg
0.30 mcg -0.10 Vitamin B12 0.10 0.40 mcg
1000.00 mcg -950.00 Niacin 950.00 1950.00 mcg
16.00 mcg -9.00 Folic Acid 9.00 25.00 mcg
500.00 mcg -300.00 Pantothenic Acid 300.00 800.00 mcg
3.00 mcg -6.00 Biotin 6.00 9.00 mcg
12.00 mg -3.00 Vitamin C 3.00 15.00 mg
24.00 mg 8.00 Choline -8.00 16.00 mg
24.00 mcg -11.00 Inositol 11.00 35.00 mg