FormulaSeek - Similac 360 Total Care RTF vs Similac Alimentum
Updated: 12/7/2024
Introduction
Choosing the right infant formula is a crucial decision for parents when natural breastfeeding isn't an option or needs to be supplemented. A suitable formula ensures that the baby receives the necessary nutrients for growth and development. Among the wide range of options available, Similac Alimentum and Similac 360 Total Care RTF are two well-known formulations. Each caters to specific nutritional needs and sensitivities. This post delves into the nuances of these two products to help parents make an informed decision.
Nutritional Composition
Similac Alimentum is specially designed for babies with food allergies or colic due to protein sensitivity. It is known for its hydrolyzed casein protein, which is more easily digestible. On the other hand, Similac 360 Total Care RTF offers a comprehensive nutritional profile that closely mimics breast milk, with a focus on immune and digestive support.
Similac Alimentum contains hydrolyzed casein while Similac 360 Total Care RTF includes a whey-dominant formula. In terms of carbohydrates, Alimentum uses corn maltodextrin whereas 360 Total Care RTF relies on lactose. For fat, both formulas contain a blend including safflower oil, though Alimentum also utilizes high-oleic safflower oil, coconut oil, and medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) for easier digestion. Vitamins and minerals are prevalent in both, but specific content and levels can vary especially in omega-3 DHA, probiotics, and prebiotics.
Key Differences
| Feature | Similac Alimentum | Similac 360 Total Care RTF |
|---|---|---|
| Protein Source | Hydrolyzed Casein | Whey-dominant |
| Carbohydrate Source | Corn Maltodextrin | Lactose |
| Fat Source | Safflower Oil, Coconut Oil, MCTs | Safflower Oil, Palm Olein |
| Prebiotics & Probiotics | Not Present | Prebiotics Present |
| Omega-3 (DHA/ARA) Levels | Medium | Enhanced |
| Iron and Calcium Content | Standard | Enhanced |
| Estimated Cost per Ounce | $0.62 (estimated) | $0.75 (estimated) |
| Organic or Non-GMO | Non-GMO | Non-GMO |
Special Features and Benefits
Similac Alimentum is praised for its capability to alleviate infants' discomfort from colic due to protein sensitivity. The hydrolyzed proteins are broken down to be easily digested, minimizing allergic responses. Meanwhile, Similac 360 Total Care RTF boasts a "360" approach, enhancing immune system resilience and supporting brain and eye development with enriched DHA/ARA and prebiotics.
Target Audience
Similac Alimentum is particularly beneficial for infants with cow's milk protein allergy, lactose intolerance, or severe colic. In contrast, Similac 360 Total Care RTF is a versatile option for most healthy infants needing comprehensive nutrition, especially those transitioning from breastfeeding or seeking immune and digestive support comparable to breast milk.
Alternatives
Alternatives to Similac Alimentum
1. Nutramigen with Enflora LGG
2. EleCare Infant Formula
3. Gerber Extensive HA
4. Enfamil ProSobee
5. Enfamil Pregestimil
Alternatives to Similac 360 Total Care RTF
1. Enfamil NeuroPro Gentlease
2. Earth's Best Organic Infant Formula
3. Gerber Good Start Gentle
4. Happy Baby Organics Infant Formula
5. Baby's Only Organic Dairy Formula
Potential Drawbacks
One potential drawback of Similac Alimentum is its taste and smell, which some babies may dislike. Additionally, it can be costly, and availability may vary. It's less enriched with prebiotics and DHA compared to other options. Similac 360 Total Care RTF, despite its comprehensive nutrition, comes with a higher price per ounce. Its reliance on palm olein oil might also raise concerns among parents mindful about digestion and nutrient absorption.
Conclusion
In summary, Similac Alimentum and Similac 360 Total Care RTF serve different but significant roles in infant nutrition. Alimentum is ideal for infants with specific sensitivities, providing gentle nutrition for sensitive digestive systems. Similac 360 Total Care RTF, with its comprehensive nutrient profile, supports overall growth and development for most infants. Parents should consult with a pediatrician to determine the best option for their baby's needs, keeping allergies, developmental stages, and individual preferences in mind.
Sources*
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Nutrient comparison
| Similac 360 Total Care RTF | +/- | Data | +/- | Similac Alimentum |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5.40 g | Fat | 0.14 | 5.54 g | |
| 11.00 g | 0.80 | Carbohydrate | 10.20 g | |
| 1.07 g | Protein | 1.68 | 2.75 g | |
| 1000.00 mg | 200.00 | Linoleic Acid | 800.00 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 Alimentum |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 78.00 mg | -27.00 | Calcium | 27.00 | 105.00 mg |
| 42.00 mg | -33.00 | Phosphorus | 33.00 | 75.00 mg |
| 6.00 mg | -1.50 | Magnesium | 1.50 | 7.50 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 | -3.00 | Manganese | 3.00 | 8.00 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 | 0.00 | Selenium | 0.00 | 2.00 mcg |
| 24.00 mg | -20.00 | Sodium | 20.00 | 44.00 mg |
| 105.00 mg | -13.00 | Potassium | 13.00 | 118.00 mg |
| 65.00 mg | -15.00 | Chloride | 15.00 | 80.00 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 Alimentum |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 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 | -1.50 | Vitamin E | 1.50 | 3.00 IU |
| 8.00 mcg | 0.00 | Vitamin K | 0.00 | 8.00 mcg |
| 100.00 mcg | 40.00 | Thiamin (Vit B1) | -40.00 | 60.00 mcg |
| 150.00 mcg | 60.00 | Riboflavin (Vit B2) | -60.00 | 90.00 mcg |
| 60.00 mcg | 0.00 | Vitamin B6 | 0.00 | 60.00 mcg |
| 0.25 mcg | -0.20 | Vitamin B12 | 0.20 | 0.45 mcg |
| 1050.00 mcg | -300.00 | Niacin | 300.00 | 1350.00 mcg |
| 15.00 mcg | 0.00 | Folic Acid | 0.00 | 15.00 mcg |
| 450.00 mcg | -300.00 | Pantothenic Acid | 300.00 | 750.00 mcg |
| 4.40 mcg | -0.10 | Biotin | 0.10 | 4.50 mcg |
| 9.00 mg | 0.00 | Vitamin C | 0.00 | 9.00 mg |
| 24.00 mg | 12.00 | Choline | -12.00 | 12.00 mg |
| 24.00 mg | 19.00 | Inositol | -19.00 | 5.00 mg |