FormulaSeek - Similac 360 Total Care RTF vs Similac NeoSure Post Discharge RTF
Updated: 12/7/2024
Introduction
Choosing the right infant formula is a critical decision for parents, as it can impact their baby's growth, development, and overall health. With numerous options available, understanding the differences between formulas can help parents make informed decisions. In this post, we will compare two popular infant formulas: Similac 360 Total Care RTF and Similac NeoSure Post Discharge RTF. Each has unique attributes catering to different nutritional needs and situations.
Nutritional Composition
Understanding the nutritional composition of infant formulas is essential for determining which one might be best suited for your baby's needs. Similac 360 Total Care RTF is designed to be as close as possible to breast milk, offering a balanced nutritional profile. It includes both whey and casein proteins, lactose as its primary carbohydrate source, and a blend of vegetable oils including palm olein oil.
On the other hand, Similac NeoSure Post Discharge RTF is specifically formulated for premature or low-birth-weight infants who need extra nutritional support. It provides a higher calorie content, focusing on optimal growth and development with slightly different protein, carbohydrate, and fat sources compared to the 360 Total Care.
Key Differences
| Feature | Similac 360 Total Care RTF | Similac NeoSure Post Discharge RTF |
|---|---|---|
| Protein Source | Whey and Casein (Closer to breast milk ratio) | Higher whey ratio |
| Carbohydrate Source | Lactose | Lactose and corn syrup solids |
| Fat Source | Vegetable oils (including palm olein) | Vegetable oils (high oleic safflower, soy, coconut oils) |
| Prebiotics and Probiotics | HMO Prebiotics | None |
| Omega-3 (DHA/ARA) Levels | Yes | Higher levels |
| Iron and Calcium Content | Moderate | Higher |
| Estimated Cost per Ounce | $0.45 (Estimated) | $0.50 (Estimated) |
| Organic or Non-GMO Certification | Non-GMO | Non-GMO |
Special Features and Benefits
Similac 360 Total Care RTF features HMO prebiotics, which are designed to support immune health and gut balance, resembling the natural properties of human breast milk. It's ideal for most infants as an all-around nutrient source.
Similac NeoSure Post Discharge RTF is enriched with higher levels of DHA, ARA, and other nutrients essential for brain and eye development, particularly beneficial for premature infants. It provides additional calories to support catch-up growth in the crucial development period post-hospital discharge.
Target Audience
Similac 360 Total Care RTF is suitable for full-term infants who can tolerate standard lactose-based formulas and seek the immune and gut health benefits provided by HMO prebiotics. It serves well for infants without specific dietary concerns.
Similac NeoSure Post Discharge RTF, however, targets preemies and low-birth-weight infants needing higher nutritional support. It is ideal for babies who require additional calories and enhanced developmental nutrients to support catch-up growth after hospital discharge.
Alternatives
Similac 360 Total Care RTF Alternatives
- Enfamil NeuroPro Ready-to-Feed
- Gerber Good Start GentlePro
- Earth's Best Organic Infant Formula
- Happy Baby Organics Infant Formula
- Parent's Choice Infant Formula
Similac NeoSure Post Discharge RTF Alternatives
- Enfamil Enfacare
- Gerber Good Start Premature 20
- Enfamil Premature Infant Formula
- Neosure HMO for Preemies
- Hospital Formulated Preemie Formula
Potential Drawbacks
While both formulas offer tailored benefits, potential drawbacks exist. Similac 360 Total Care RTF, despite its overall balanced composition, may not be suitable for infants with specific allergies or intolerances. Cost and availability can also be concerns, as it is relatively more expensive compared to other formula options.
Similac NeoSure Post Discharge RTF, while rich in essential nutrients for preemies, might be too rich or concentrated for full-term infants, possibly leading to digestive issues. Pricing is on the higher side due to its specialized formulation.
Conclusion
In summary, choosing between Similac 360 Total Care RTF and Similac NeoSure Post Discharge RTF largely depends on your baby's specific needs. The 360 Total Care offers a balanced profile closer to breast milk and may suit most infants, while NeoSure is tailored for premature babies needing extra nutritional support. Always consult with a pediatrician when selecting or changing your baby's formula, as they can provide personalized guidance based on your child's health and nutritional needs.
Sources*
Buy Similac 360 Total Care RTF Online
Buy Similac NeoSure Post Discharge RTF Online
+ Links are reviewed periodically for accuracy; failing links might mean the product is currently unavailable.
Start here
Nutrient comparison
| Similac 360 Total Care RTF | +/- | Data | +/- | Similac NeoSure Post Discharge RTF |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5.40 g | Fat | 0.10 | 5.50 g | |
| 11.00 g | 0.90 | Carbohydrate | 10.10 g | |
| 1.07 g | Protein | 1.73 | 2.80 g | |
| 1000.00 mg | 250.00 | Linoleic Acid | 750.00 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 NeoSure Post Discharge RTF |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 78.00 mg | -27.00 | Calcium | 27.00 | 105.00 mg |
| 42.00 mg | -20.00 | Phosphorus | 20.00 | 62.00 mg |
| 6.00 mg | -3.00 | Magnesium | 3.00 | 9.00 mg |
| 1.80 mg | 0.00 | Iron | 0.00 | 1.80 mg |
| 0.75 mg | -0.45 | Zinc | 0.45 | 1.20 mg |
| 5.00 mcg | -5.00 | Manganese | 5.00 | 10.00 mcg |
| 90.00 mcg | -30.00 | Copper | 30.00 | 120.00 mcg |
| 15.00 mcg | 0.00 | Iodine | 0.00 | 15.00 mcg |
| 2.00 mcg | -0.30 | Selenium | 0.30 | 2.30 mcg |
| 24.00 mg | -9.00 | Sodium | 9.00 | 33.00 mg |
| 105.00 mg | -37.00 | Potassium | 37.00 | 142.00 mg |
| 65.00 mg | -10.00 | Chloride | 10.00 | 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.
| Similac 360 Total Care RTF | +/- | Vitamin | +/- | Similac NeoSure Post Discharge RTF |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 300.00 IU | -50.00 | Vitamin A | 50.00 | 350.00 IU |
| 60.00 IU | -10.00 | Vitamin D | 10.00 | 70.00 IU |
| 1.50 IU | -2.10 | Vitamin E | 2.10 | 3.60 IU |
| 8.00 mcg | -3.00 | Vitamin K | 3.00 | 11.00 mcg |
| 100.00 mcg | -75.00 | Thiamin (Vit B1) | 75.00 | 175.00 mcg |
| 150.00 mcg | 0.00 | Riboflavin (Vit B2) | 0.00 | 150.00 mcg |
| 60.00 mcg | -40.00 | Vitamin B6 | 40.00 | 100.00 mcg |
| 0.25 mcg | -0.15 | Vitamin B12 | 0.15 | 0.40 mcg |
| 1050.00 mcg | -900.00 | Niacin | 900.00 | 1950.00 mcg |
| 15.00 mcg | -10.00 | Folic Acid | 10.00 | 25.00 mcg |
| 450.00 mcg | -350.00 | Pantothenic Acid | 350.00 | 800.00 mcg |
| 4.40 mcg | -4.60 | Biotin | 4.60 | 9.00 mcg |
| 9.00 mg | -6.00 | Vitamin C | 6.00 | 15.00 mg |
| 24.00 mg | 8.00 | Choline | -8.00 | 16.00 mg |
| 24.00 mg | -11.00 | Inositol | 11.00 | 35.00 mg |