FormulaSeek - Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive RTF vs Similac ProTotal Comfort RTF
Updated: 12/7/2024
Introduction
Choosing the right infant formula is crucial for ensuring your baby's health and development. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming for parents to select the best product that meets their little one's needs. Among the myriad of formulas, two popular choices are Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive RTF and Similac ProTotal Comfort RTF. In this blog post, we will explore these two formulas in detail, highlighting their nutritional composition, key differences, special features, and who they are best suited for.
Nutritional Composition
Both Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive RTF and Similac ProTotal Comfort RTF are designed to provide complete nutrition for infants. They each offer distinct nutritional profiles to accommodate different dietary needs.
Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive RTF's protein is primarily derived from whey protein, tailored for sensitive stomachs, while its carbohydrate source relies on reduced lactose for easier digestibility. It includes a blend of fat sources such as high-oleic safflower oil and soy oil, and is fortified with essential vitamins and minerals.
In contrast, Similac ProTotal Comfort RTF offers partially hydrolyzed protein, which is easier for some infants to digest. It incorporates carbohydrate sources including maltodextrin, providing energy and nutrients. This formula also uses a fat blend comprising palm olein, soy oil, and M. alpina oil, and is enhanced with vitamins and minerals to support overall growth and development.
Key Differences
| Feature | Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive RTF | Similac ProTotal Comfort RTF |
|---|---|---|
| Protein Source | Whey protein | Partially hydrolyzed protein |
| Carbohydrate Source | Reduced lactose | Maltodextrin |
| Fat Source | Safflower oil, soy oil | Palm olein, soy oil |
| Prebiotics and Probiotics | Contains prebiotics | Contains probiotics |
| Omega-3 (DHA/ARA) Levels | Included | Included |
| Iron and Calcium Content | Standard levels | Standard levels |
| Estimated Cost per Ounce* | $0.80 | $0.85 |
| Organic or Non-GMO Certification | Non-GMO | Non-GMO |
*Prices are estimated.
Special Features and Benefits
Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive RTF is designed for babies with sensitive stomachs, containing a whey protein formula that's gentler on digestion. Its reduced lactose content helps minimize gas and fussiness, making it an ideal choice for lactose-sensitive infants. The inclusion of prebiotics helps support the development of the immune system and encourage digestive health.
Similac ProTotal Comfort RTF, on the other hand, features partially hydrolyzed protein to ease digestion. This makes it suitable for babies with difficulty processing intact proteins. The addition of probiotics also supports gut health and can potentially improve the absorption of nutrients.
Target Audience
Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive RTF is especially beneficial for infants with lactose sensitivity or those who often experience fussiness and gas. It's ideal for parents who want a formula that promotes easier digestion without compromise in nutrition.
Similac ProTotal Comfort RTF, with its partially hydrolyzed protein, is a superb option for babies struggling with protein digestion or needing gentle formula—perfect for infants born prematurely or those with an increased risk of allergies.
Alternatives
Alternatives to Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive RTF
- Enfamil Gentlease
- Gerber Good Start Gentle
- Earth's Best Organic Sensitivity
- Parent's Choice Sensitivity
- Happy Baby Sensitive
Alternatives to Similac ProTotal Comfort RTF
- Enfamil NeuroPro Gentlease
- Gerber Good Start SoothePro
- Alimentum Hypoallergenic
- Nutramigen Hypoallergenic
- Earth's Best Organic Gentle
Potential Drawbacks
While Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive RTF offers significant benefits for sensitive stomachs, its cost might be prohibitive for long-term use, and availability can sometimes be limited. Additionally, although the formula is well-tolerated, some parents may prefer organic-certified options.
Similac ProTotal Comfort RTF, though beneficial for infants with digestion sensitivities, also faces criticism for its relatively higher price point. The inclusion of palm olein as a fat source might concern some parents due to its controversial use in infant formulas.
Conclusion
Both Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive RTF and Similac ProTotal Comfort RTF offer comprehensive nutritional benefits, catering to different infant needs. For babies with lactose sensitivity, Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive RTF provides an excellent solution. Alternatively, if your baby struggles with protein digestion, Similac ProTotal Comfort RTF might be the better choice. Regardless, parents should always consult with a pediatrician before making a formula decision to ensure it aligns with their baby's unique dietary requirements and health needs.
Sources*
Buy Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive RTF Online
Buy Similac ProTotal Comfort 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 Sensitive RTF | +/- | Data | +/- | Similac ProTotal Comfort RTF |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5.40 g | Fat | 5.40 g | ||
| 10.90 g | 0.20 | Carbohydrate | 10.70 g | |
| 2.10 g | Protein | 0.22 | 2.32 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 Sensitive RTF | +/- | Minerals | +/- | Similac ProTotal Comfort RTF |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 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 | 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 |
| 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 | 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 Sensitive RTF | +/- | Vitamin | +/- | Similac ProTotal Comfort RTF |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 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 |
| 300.00 IU | 0.00 | Vitamin A | 0.00 | 300.00 IU |
| 60.00 IU | 0.00 | Vitamin D | 0.00 | 60.00 IU |