FormulaSeek - Similac 360 Total Care RTF vs Similac Alimentum RTF
Updated: 12/7/2024
Introduction
Choosing the right infant formula is a crucial decision for any parent, as it plays a significant role in your baby's growth and development. With a myriad of options available, it can be a daunting task to find the perfect fit. Two popular choices in the realm of infant nutrition are Similac Alimentum Ready-to-Feed (RTF) and Similac 360 Total Care RTF. Each formula is designed to meet specific needs that may arise during early childhood. This blog will compare and contrast these two products, assisting parents in making a more informed decision.
Nutritional Composition
Understanding the nutritional makeup of these formulas is essential. Similac Alimentum RTF is formulated for babies with food allergies and colic due to protein sensitivity. It features broken-down (hydrolyzed) casein protein to aid easy digestion. The carbohydrate source is corn maltodextrin, while the fat blend includes medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which are easier for sensitive stomachs to process.
Similac 360 Total Care RTF resembles human breast milk more closely and focuses on providing comprehensive nutrition for brain and eye development. It contains a mix of whey protein, lactose as a primary carbohydrate, and vegetable oils including palm olein oil.
Key Differences
| Feature | Similac Alimentum RTF | Similac 360 Total Care RTF |
|---|---|---|
| Protein Source | Hydrolyzed casein | Whey protein |
| Carbohydrate Source | Corn maltodextrin | Lactose |
| Fat Source | MCT oil | Vegetable oils (including palm olein) |
| Prebiotics and Probiotics | None | Prebiotics (HMOs) |
| Omega-3 (DHA/ARA) Levels | Moderate | High |
| Iron and Calcium Content | Standard | Enhanced |
| Estimated Cost per Ounce | Approx. $0.50* | Approx. $0.45* |
| Organic or Non-GMO Certification | Non-GMO | Non-GMO |
*Note: Prices are estimated and can vary based on retailer and location.
Special Features and Benefits
Similac Alimentum RTF is particularly beneficial for infants with protein sensitivity. The hydrolyzed casein protein is broken down into smaller chains, making it easier for sensitive infants to digest, reducing the likelihood of an allergic reaction.
Similac 360 Total Care RTF, mimicking the composition of breast milk, features enriched DHA, ARA, and HMOs—all of which contribute substantially to cognitive and immune system development.
Target Audience
Similac Alimentum RTF is ideal for infants with lactose intolerance, cow's milk protein allergies, or colic caused by protein sensitivity. It is designed to provide relief from these symptoms, allowing these sensitive infants to feel more comfortable.
Similac 360 Total Care RTF suits babies who do not have specific digestive issues but can benefit from a formula that closely resembles the comprehensive nutrition found in human breast milk, perhaps enhancing cognitive and emotional development.
Alternatives
Alternatives for Similac Alimentum RTF
- Enfamil Nutramigen
- Gerber Extensive HA
- Earth's Best Organic Sensitivity
- Parent's Choice Hypoallergenic
- Happy Baby Sensitive
Alternatives for Similac 360 Total Care RTF
- Enfamil NeuroPro Gentlease
- Gerber Good Start Gentle
- Earth's Best Organic Dairy Infant Formula
- Kirkland Signature ProCare
- Happy Tot Organic Toddler Milk
Potential Drawbacks
Similac Alimentum RTF, while beneficial for sensitive infants, carries a higher cost and may not be widely available in all locations. Additionally, some parents might prefer to avoid corn-based carbohydrates.
Similac 360 Total Care RTF, though nutritionally complete, includes palm olein oil, which some parents might seek to avoid due to its potential for reduced bone mineralization compared to formulas without this ingredient.
Conclusion
Both Similac Alimentum RTF and Similac 360 Total Care RTF offer distinct advantages tailored to specific infant needs. Similac Alimentum is excellent for babies with known allergies and intolerances, while Similac 360 Total Care focuses on replicating the nourishing properties of breast milk. Ultimately, parents should evaluate their infant's specific dietary needs and consult with a pediatrician to determine the most suitable choice.
Sources*
Buy Similac 360 Total Care RTF Online
Buy Similac Alimentum RTF Online
+ Links are reviewed periodically for accuracy; failing links might mean the product is currently unavailable.
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Nutrient comparison
| Similac 360 Total Care RTF | +/- | Data | +/- | Similac Alimentum RTF |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 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 | Linoleic Acid | 900.00 | 1900.00 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 RTF |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 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 RTF |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 300.00 IU | 0.00 | Vitamin A | 0.00 | 300.00 IU |
| 60.00 IU | 15.00 | Vitamin D | -15.00 | 45.00 IU |
| 1.50 IU | -1.50 | Vitamin E | 1.50 | 3.00 IU |
| 8.00 mcg | -7.00 | Vitamin K | 7.00 | 15.00 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 |