FormulaSeek - Similac 360 Total Care RTF vs Enfamil Sensitive Infant Formula
Updated: 12/7/2024
Introduction
Choosing the right infant formula is crucial for a baby's growth and development, especially for those who are formula-fed. Parents often face a challenging decision with the multitude of infant formula options available. This post will compare two popular choices: Similac 360 Total Care Ready-to-Feed (RTF) and Enfamil Sensitive Infant Formula. Both are designed to meet the nutritional needs of infants while catering to specific dietary sensitivities.
Nutritional Composition
Understanding the nutritional components of infant formula is essential as it directly impacts a baby's health. Similac 360 Total Care RTF is known for its balanced nutrient profile, closely resembling breast milk. It includes a whey-to-casein protein ratio that matches human milk, making it easily digestible. The formula also includes lactose as its primary carbohydrate source, supplemented with palm olein oil, soy, and coconut oils for fat. It is fortified with essential vitamins and minerals, including iron, calcium, and vitamin D.
On the other hand, Enfamil Sensitive Infant Formula is specifically designed for babies with lactose sensitivity. It uses a partially hydrolyzed, whey-dominant protein source, making it gentler on the stomach. Its carbohydrate base is derived from corn syrup solids and lactose. The formula utilizes safflower, coconut, and soy oils for its fat content and provides a comprehensive array of vitamins and minerals necessary for healthy development.
Key Differences
| Feature | Similac 360 Total Care RTF | Enfamil Sensitive Infant Formula |
|---|---|---|
| Protein Source | Whey-to-casein (similar to breast milk ratio) | Partially hydrolyzed whey |
| Carbohydrate Source | Lactose | Corn syrup solids, lactose |
| Fat Source | Palm olein, soy, coconut oils | Safflower, coconut, soy oils |
| Prebiotics and Probiotics | Contains prebiotics | No prebiotics or probiotics |
| Omega-3 (DHA/ARA) Levels | Includes DHA and ARA | Includes DHA and ARA |
| Iron and Calcium Content | Standard iron; enriched calcium | Standard iron; enriched calcium |
| Estimated Cost per Ounce | Approx. $0.27 per ounce | Approx. $0.20 per ounce |
| Organic or Non-GMO Certification | Non-GMO | Non-GMO |
Special Features and Benefits
Similac 360 Total Care RTF features a unique nutrient blend that includes prebiotics for digestive health and DHA and ARA for brain and eye development. It is a non-GMO formula designed to offer comprehensive nutrition close to breast milk quality, catering to various infant needs.
Enfamil Sensitive Infant Formula is tailored for infants experiencing lactose sensitivity. It employs a partially hydrolyzed protein to aid digestion and reduce potential digestive discomfort. The inclusion of DHA supports cognitive development, making it a great choice for sensitive stomachs.
Target Audience
Similac 360 Total Care RTF is ideal for parents looking for a complete, non-GMO formula that closely mimics breast milk. It benefits babies without specific dietary restrictions or allergies.
Enfamil Sensitive Infant Formula is targeted at infants with lactose sensitivity or mild digestive issues. It's particularly beneficial for infants prone to gas and fussiness due to lactose intolerance.
Alternatives for Similac 360 Total Care RTF
For Similac 360 Total Care RTF:
- Similac Pro-Advance
- Gerber Good Start Gentle
- Earth's Best Organic Infant Formula
- Happy Baby Organics Infant Formula
- Kirkland Signature ProCare Non-GMO Infant Formula
Alternatives for Enfamil Sensitive Infant Formula:
- Similac Sensitive
- Gerber Good Start Soothe
- Parent's Choice Sensitivity Infant Formula
- Target Up&Up Sensitivity
- Earth's Best Organic Sensitivity Infant Formula
Potential Drawbacks
The primary concern with Similac 360 Total Care RTF might be its cost, as it is typically priced higher than powdered alternatives. Availability can be another issue depending on the region. The inclusion of palm olein oil is often debated as it may inhibit calcium absorption.
Enfamil Sensitive Infant Formula, while budget-friendly, might not be suitable for babies without lactose sensitivity since it doesn't closely mimic the composition of breast milk. Additionally, it lacks prebiotics or probiotics, which could be a consideration for parents focused on digestive health.
Conclusion
Both Similac 360 Total Care RTF and Enfamil Sensitive Infant Formula provide robust nutritional profiles but cater to different needs. For parents seeking a complete, breast milk-like formula, Similac's offering is an excellent option. Conversely, families dealing with lactose sensitivity may find Enfamil Sensitive a better fit. Nonetheless, parents should always consult with a pediatrician to make the most informed decision for their baby's health and dietary needs. Remember that the prices mentioned are approximate and may vary by location and retailer.
Sources*
Buy Similac 360 Total Care RTF Online
Buy Enfamil Sensitive Infant Formula Online
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Nutrient comparison
| Similac 360 Total Care RTF | +/- | Data | +/- | Enfamil Sensitive Infant Formula |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5.40 g | 0.10 | Fat | 5.30 g | |
| 11.00 g | 0.10 | Carbohydrate | 10.90 g | |
| 1.07 g | Protein | 1.13 | 2.20 g | |
| 1000.00 mg | 1000.00 | Linoleic Acid | 0 |
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.
| Similac 360 Total Care RTF | +/- | Minerals | +/- | Enfamil Sensitive Infant Formula |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 78.00 mg | -10.00 | Calcium | 10.00 | 88.00 mg |
| 42.00 mg | -17.00 | Phosphorus | 17.00 | 59.00 mg |
| 6.00 mg | -2.00 | Magnesium | 2.00 | 8.00 mg |
| 1.80 mg | 0.00 | Iron | 0.00 | 1.80 mg |
| 0.75 mg | -0.25 | Zinc | 0.25 | 1.00 mg |
| 5.00 mcg | -10.00 | Manganese | 10.00 | 15.00 mcg |
| 90.00 mcg | 15.00 | Copper | -15.00 | 75.00 mcg |
| 15.00 mcg | 0.00 | Iodine | 0.00 | 15.00 mcg |
| 2.00 mcg | -0.80 | Selenium | 0.80 | 2.80 mcg |
| 24.00 mg | -9.00 | Sodium | 9.00 | 33.00 mg |
| 105.00 mg | -5.00 | Potassium | 5.00 | 110.00 mg |
| 65.00 mg | -2.00 | Chloride | 2.00 | 67.00 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.
| Similac 360 Total Care RTF | +/- | Vitamin | +/- | Enfamil Sensitive Infant Formula |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 300.00 IU | 0.00 | Vitamin A | 0.00 | 300.00 IU |
| 60.00 IU | -10.00 | Vitamin D | 10.00 | 70.00 IU |
| 1.50 IU | -0.50 | Vitamin E | 0.50 | 2.00 IU |
| 8.00 mcg | -1.00 | Vitamin K | 1.00 | 9.00 mcg |
| 100.00 mcg | 20.00 | Thiamin (Vit B1) | -20.00 | 80.00 mcg |
| 150.00 mcg | 10.00 | Riboflavin (Vit B2) | -10.00 | 140.00 mcg |
| 60.00 mcg | 0.00 | Vitamin B6 | 0.00 | 60.00 mcg |
| 0.25 mcg | -0.05 | Vitamin B12 | 0.05 | 0.30 mcg |
| 1050.00 mcg | 50.00 | Niacin | -50.00 | 1000.00 mcg |
| 15.00 mcg | -1.00 | Folic Acid | 1.00 | 16.00 mcg |
| 450.00 mcg | -50.00 | Pantothenic Acid | 50.00 | 500.00 mcg |
| 4.40 mcg | 1.40 | Biotin | -1.40 | 3.00 mcg |
| 9.00 mg | -3.00 | Vitamin C | 3.00 | 12.00 mg |
| 24.00 mg | 0.00 | Choline | 0.00 | 24.00 mg |
| 24.00 mg | 0.00 | Inositol | 0.00 | 24.00 mcg |