FormulaSeek - Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive RTF vs Similac Alimentum
Updated: 12/7/2024
Introduction
Choosing the right infant formula is a critical decision for parents, as it directly impacts the health and development of their babies. With numerous options on the market, selecting the formula that best meets a child's nutritional needs can be overwhelming. Similac Alimentum and Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive RTF are two specialized formulas from Abbott Laboratories, designed to cater to specific dietary requirements. In this blog post, we will compare these two formulas to help you make an informed decision.
Nutritional Composition
Similac Alimentum is a hypoallergenic formula suitable for babies with food allergies and colic due to protein sensitivity. It features hydrolyzed casein protein, making it easier to digest. This formula also includes a balanced blend of fats such as safflower, soy, and coconut oil, and carbohydrates from corn maltodextrin.
On the other hand, Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive RTF is designed for babies with lactose sensitivity. It contains a protein blend of partially hydrolyzed whey and casein, making it gentle on the tummy. Its carbohydrate profile includes corn syrup solids and a specialized blend of fats, including high-oleic safflower oil, soy, and coconut oil. Additionally, both formulas are fortified with essential vitamins and minerals to support overall growth and development.
Key Differences
| Feature | Similac Alimentum | Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive RTF |
|---|---|---|
| Protein Source | Hydrolyzed casein | Partially hydrolyzed whey and casein |
| Carbohydrate Source | Corn maltodextrin | Corn syrup solids |
| Fat Source | Safflower, soy, coconut oil | High-oleic safflower, soy, coconut oil |
| Prebiotics/Probiotics | None | None |
| Omega-3 (DHA/ARA) | Included | Included |
| Iron and Calcium Content | Includes essential iron and calcium | Includes essential iron and calcium |
| Estimated Cost per Ounce | $0.30 (estimated) | $0.35 (estimated) |
| Organic or Non-GMO | Non-GMO | Non-GMO |
Special Features and Benefits
Similac Alimentum is specially formulated for infants with allergies or colic due to protein sensitivity, making it a suitable choice for babies prone to digestive issues. Its extensively hydrolyzed protein variant is less likely to trigger allergic reactions.
Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive RTF caters to lactose-sensitive infants, providing a gentle formulation that aids in digestion and reduces discomfort. Its ready-to-feed (RTF) format offers convenience without the need for preparation, making it a practical option for busy parents.
Target Audience
Similac Alimentum is ideal for babies with food allergies, colic, or severe digestive issues, as it minimizes allergen exposure. Conversely, Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive RTF is best suited for infants with lactose sensitivity, offering a gentle and convenient feeding solution.
Alternatives
Similac Alimentum Alternatives
- Nutramigen with Enflora LGG
- Gerber Extensive HA
- Enfamil Pregestimil
- HiPP HA Combiotic
- EleCare
Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive RTF Alternatives
- Enfamil Gentlease
- Gerber Good Start SoothePro
- Enfamil NeuroPro Sensitive
- Earth's Best Sensitivity
- Happy Baby Sensitive
Potential Drawbacks
One potential drawback of Similac Alimentum is its cost, as hypoallergenic formulas tend to be pricier than standard formulas. Availability can also be an issue, as specialized formulas may not be stocked in all stores.
Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive RTF comes at a higher price point compared to powder formulas, largely due to its ready-to-feed convenience. Additionally, some parents may have concerns about the use of corn syrup solids as a carbohydrate source.
Conclusion
Both Similac Alimentum and Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive RTF offer tailored solutions for specific infant dietary needs. Similac Alimentum is highly beneficial for babies with severe allergies or colic, while Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive RTF is ideal for those with lactose sensitivities. Each formula has its strengths and potential limitations, and the choice depends on your baby's unique requirements. It is always advisable to consult your pediatrician to determine the most suitable option for your baby.
Sources*
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Nutrient comparison
| Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive RTF | +/- | Data | +/- | Similac Alimentum |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5.40 g | Fat | 0.14 | 5.54 g | |
| 10.90 g | 0.70 | Carbohydrate | 10.20 g | |
| 2.10 g | Protein | 0.65 | 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 Sensitive RTF | +/- | Minerals | +/- | Similac Alimentum |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 84.00 mg | -21.00 | Calcium | 21.00 | 105.00 mg |
| 56.00 mg | -19.00 | Phosphorus | 19.00 | 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 |
| 30.00 mg | -14.00 | Sodium | 14.00 | 44.00 mg |
| 107.00 mg | -11.00 | Potassium | 11.00 | 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 Sensitive RTF | +/- | Vitamin | +/- | Similac Alimentum |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 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 |
| 300.00 IU | 0.00 | Vitamin A | 0.00 | 300.00 IU |
| 60.00 IU | 0.00 | Vitamin D | 0.00 | 60.00 IU |