FormulaSeek - Similac 360 Total Care RTF vs Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive
Updated: 12/7/2024
Introduction
Choosing the right infant formula is crucial for the health and development of your baby, especially when breastfeeding is not an option or needs to be supplemented. Every baby has unique nutritional needs and sensitivities, making it essential to find the formula that works best for them. Two popular options from the Similac family include Similac 360 Total Care Ready-to-Feed (RTF) and Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive. This post aims to provide an in-depth comparison of these two formulas to help parents make an informed decision.
Nutritional Composition
Similac 360 Total Care RTF and Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive are formulated to closely mimic breast milk, offering a comprehensive blend of nutrients. Both options are designed to support overall growth and development, but there are subtle variations in their nutritional formulation. The following sections will compare their protein sources, carbohydrate and fat content, as well as the vitamins and minerals they contain.
Key Differences
| Aspect | Similac 360 Total Care RTF | Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive |
|---|---|---|
| Protein Source | Whey-predominant | Partially hydrolyzed protein |
| Carbohydrate Source | Lactose | Reduced lactose, corn syrup solids |
| Fat Source | Palm olein-free, contains safflower oil and soy oil | Safflower oil, soy oil |
| Prebiotics and Probiotics | 2'-FL HMO, No probiotics | 2'-FL HMO, No probiotics |
| Omega-3 Levels (DHA/ARA) | Included | Included |
| Iron and Calcium Content | Standard iron levels, adequate calcium | Standard iron levels, adequate calcium |
| Estimated Cost Per Ounce | $0.20 (estimate) | $0.22 (estimate) |
| Organic or Non-GMO | Non-GMO | Non-GMO |
Special Features and Benefits
Both formulas offer unique features tailored to different dietary needs. Similac 360 Total Care RTF offers a palm olein-free fat blend, which may support better calcium absorption and bone health. In contrast, Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive contains partially hydrolyzed protein, making it easier to digest for babies with sensitivity to intact cow's milk protein. Both formulas include 2’-FL HMO, a prebiotic found in breast milk that supports gut health. They also contain DHA and ARA acids, which are important for brain and eye development.
Target Audience
Similac 360 Total Care RTF is suitable for healthy babies who can tolerate regular cow's milk protein while benefiting from a balanced, comprehensive nutrient blend. Meanwhile, Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive is designed for babies who may have issues with lactose or cow's milk protein, providing an alternative that's gentle on the stomach.
Alternatives to Similac 360 Total Care RTF
- Enfamil NeuroPro Infant Formula
- Gerber Good Start GentlePro
- Earth's Best Organic Dairy Infant Powder
- Happy Baby Organic Infant Formula
- Parent's Choice Infant Formula
Alternatives to Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive
- Enfamil Gentlease
- Gerber Good Start SoothePro
- Earth's Best Sensitive Infant Formula
- Happy Baby Organic Sensitive Infant Formula
- Parent's Choice Sensitivity Formula
Potential Drawbacks
While both formulas offer a solid dietary foundation for infants, they come with potential drawbacks. Similac 360 Total Care RTF can be more expensive due to its convenience as a ready-to-feed option. On the other hand, Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive may not be suitable for babies who do not require a reduced lactose diet, and the presence of corn syrup solids might be controversial for some parents. Both products may also be limited in availability depending on location.
Conclusion
Both Similac 360 Total Care RTF and Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive have their unique merits tailored to support the different needs of growing infants. Similac 360 Total Care RTF is an excellent option for families looking for a convenient and rich nutritional profile for their healthy infant. Meanwhile, Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive is well-suited for infants with sensitive stomachs or slight lactose sensitivity. Parents should weigh these aspects carefully and consult with a pediatrician to choose the best formula for their baby.
Sources*
Buy Similac 360 Total Care RTF Online
Buy Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive Online
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Nutrient comparison
| Similac 360 Total Care RTF | +/- | Data | +/- | Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5.40 g | Fat | 5.40 g | ||
| 11.00 g | 0.10 | Carbohydrate | 10.90 g | |
| 1.07 g | Protein | 1.03 | 2.10 g | |
| 1000.00 mg | Linoleic Acid | 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.
| Similac 360 Total Care RTF | +/- | Minerals | +/- | Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 78.00 mg | -6.00 | Calcium | 6.00 | 84.00 mg |
| 42.00 mg | -14.00 | Phosphorus | 14.00 | 56.00 mg |
| 6.00 mg | 0.00 | Magnesium | 0.00 | 6.00 mg |
| 1.80 mg | 0.00 | Iron | 0.00 | 1.80 mg |
| 0.75 mg | 0.00 | Zinc | 0.00 | 0.75 mg |
| 5.00 mcg | 0.00 | Manganese | 0.00 | 5.00 mcg |
| 90.00 mcg | 0.00 | Copper | 0.00 | 90.00 mcg |
| 15.00 mcg | 0.00 | Iodine | 0.00 | 15.00 mcg |
| 2.00 mcg | 0.00 | Selenium | 0.00 | 2.00 mcg |
| 24.00 mg | -6.00 | Sodium | 6.00 | 30.00 mg |
| 105.00 mg | -2.00 | Potassium | 2.00 | 107.00 mg |
| 65.00 mg | 0.00 | Chloride | 0.00 | 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.
| Similac 360 Total Care RTF | +/- | Vitamin | +/- | Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 300.00 IU | 0.00 | Vitamin A | 0.00 | 300.00 IU |
| 60.00 IU | 0.00 | Vitamin D | 0.00 | 60.00 IU |
| 1.50 IU | 0.00 | Vitamin E | 0.00 | 1.50 IU |
| 8.00 mcg | 0.00 | Vitamin K | 0.00 | 8.00 mcg |
| 100.00 mcg | 0.00 | Thiamin (Vit B1) | 0.00 | 100.00 mcg |
| 150.00 mcg | 0.00 | Riboflavin (Vit B2) | 0.00 | 150.00 mcg |
| 60.00 mcg | 0.00 | Vitamin B6 | 0.00 | 60.00 mcg |
| 0.25 mcg | 0.00 | Vitamin B12 | 0.00 | 0.25 mcg |
| 1050.00 mcg | 0.00 | Niacin | 0.00 | 1050.00 mcg |
| 15.00 mcg | 0.00 | Folic Acid | 0.00 | 15.00 mcg |
| 450.00 mcg | 0.00 | Pantothenic Acid | 0.00 | 450.00 mcg |
| 4.40 mcg | 0.00 | Biotin | 0.00 | 4.40 mcg |
| 9.00 mg | 0.00 | Vitamin C | 0.00 | 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 |