FormulaSeek - Similac Advance vs Enfamil Nutramigen RTF
Updated: 12/7/2024
Introduction
Choosing the right infant formula is one of the most important decisions parents make for their newborn. The formula provides essential nutrients that mimic breast milk, supporting healthy growth and development. Two popular options in the market are Similac Advance and Enfamil Nutramigen Ready-to-Feed (RTF). Similac Advance is known for its comprehensive nutritional profile, while Enfamil Nutramigen RTF is particularly designed to cater to babies with specific dietary needs, such as allergies or sensitivity to certain milk proteins. In this blog post, we'll delve into the nutritional differences, special features, target audiences, and more to help you make an informed decision.
Nutritional Composition
The nutritional composition of infant formulas is crucial as it provides infants with the building blocks they need for growth. Similac Advance primarily contains nonfat milk and whey protein concentrate, providing a similar whey-to-casein ratio to that of breast milk. It uses lactose as its carbohydrate source and palm olein oil among other oils as its fat source. Enfamil Nutramigen RTF, on the other hand, features extensively hydrolyzed casein protein, making it easier for sensitive stomachs to digest. It uses corn syrup solids as its carbohydrate source and includes a mix of oils such as safflower and palm oil.
Key Differences
| Factors | Similac Advance | Enfamil Nutramigen RTF |
|---|---|---|
| Protein Source | Nonfat milk, whey protein | Extensively hydrolyzed casein |
| Carbohydrate Source | Lactose | Corn syrup solids |
| Fat Source | Palm olein, soy and coconut oils | Safflower, palm oils |
| Prebiotics and Probiotics | Prebiotics | No added prebiotics/probiotics |
| Omega-3 (DHA/ARA) | Included | Included |
| Iron and Calcium Content | Included | Included |
| Estimated Cost per Ounce | $0.30 (estimated) | $0.60 (estimated) |
| Organic or Non-GMO Certification | Non-GMO | Non-GMO |
Special Features and Benefits
Similac Advance has the advantage of prebiotics, which supports gut health and enhances the immune system. It also features a nutrient blend including DHA and ARA for brain and eye development. Enfamil Nutramigen RTF is specially formulated with extensively hydrolyzed protein, which significantly reduces the risk of allergic reactions and is beneficial for infants with milk protein allergies or colic due to protein sensitivity.
Target Audience
Similac Advance is ideal for healthy full-term infants and those without specific dietary restrictions. It mimics breast milk closely and offers balanced nutrition for everyday feeding. Enfamil Nutramigen RTF is more suitable for babies with diagnosed cow milk protein allergy, lactose sensitivity, or other digestive issues. It is tailored for babies who need a hypoallergenic formula.
Alternatives to Similac Advance
- Gerber Good Start Gentle
- Earth's Best Organic Infant Formula
- Happy Baby Organic
- Kirkland Signature ProCare Non-GMO Infant Formula
- Plum Organics Grow Well Infant Formula
Alternatives to Enfamil Nutramigen RTF
- Similac Alimentum
- Gerber Extensive HA
- EleCare Infant Hypoallergenic Formula
- Neocate Infant DHA/ARA
- Enfamil Pregestimil
Potential Drawbacks
While Similac Advance provides a balanced nutritional profile, its use of palm olein oil has been controversial due to potential issues with calcium absorption. The formula may also be more expensive than some generic counterparts. Enfamil Nutramigen RTF's cost is significantly higher than standard formulas, which might be prohibitive for some families. Its taste and smell, often described as less pleasant than regular formulas, might not be favored by some infants.
Conclusion
Both Similac Advance and Enfamil Nutramigen RTF offer unique benefits suited for different types of infants. Similac Advance is a versatile option for those seeking balanced nutrition similar to breast milk, while Enfamil Nutramigen RTF is advantageous for infants with specific dietary needs like allergies or sensitivities. It's crucial for parents to consider their infant's individual needs and consult with a pediatrician when choosing the appropriate formula. Prices are estimates and it is advisable to compare costs and availability at local retailers. Ultimately, the right choice should support the healthy growth and comfort of the baby, fostering peace of mind for parents.
Sources*
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Nutrient comparison
| Similac Advance | +/- | Data | +/- | Enfamil Nutramigen RTF |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5.60 g | 0.30 | Fat | 5.30 g | |
| 10.70 g | 0.40 | Carbohydrate | 10.30 g | |
| 2.07 g | Protein | 0.73 | 2.80 g | |
| 1000.00 mg | 140.00 | Linoleic Acid | 860.00 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 Advance | +/- | Minerals | +/- | Enfamil Nutramigen RTF |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 45.00 mg | -49.00 | Calcium | 49.00 | 94.00 mg |
| 42.00 mg | -10.00 | Phosphorus | 10.00 | 52.00 mg |
| 6.00 mg | -2.00 | Magnesium | 2.00 | 8.00 mg |
| 1.80 mg | 0.00 | Iron | 0.00 | 1.80 mg |
| 0.75 mg | -0.25 | Zinc | 0.25 | 1.00 mg |
| 5.00 mcg | -20.00 | Manganese | 20.00 | 25.00 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 | -0.80 | Selenium | 0.80 | 2.80 mcg |
| 24.00 mg | -23.00 | Sodium | 23.00 | 47.00 mg |
| 105.00 mg | -5.00 | Potassium | 5.00 | 110.00 mg |
| 65.00 mg | -21.00 | Chloride | 21.00 | 86.00 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 Advance | +/- | Vitamin | +/- | Enfamil Nutramigen RTF |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1.50 IU | -0.50 | Vitamin E | 0.50 | 2.00 IU |
| 8.00 mcg | -1.00 | Vitamin K | 1.00 | 9.00 mcg |
| 100.00 mcg | 20.00 | Thiamin (Vit B1) | -20.00 | 80.00 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 | -0.05 | Vitamin B12 | 0.05 | 0.30 mcg |
| 1050.00 mcg | 50.00 | Niacin | -50.00 | 1000.00 mcg |
| 15.00 mcg | -1.00 | Folic Acid | 1.00 | 16.00 mcg |
| 450.00 mcg | -50.00 | Pantothenic Acid | 50.00 | 500.00 mcg |
| 4.40 mcg | 1.40 | Biotin | -1.40 | 3.00 mcg |
| 9.00 mg | -3.00 | Vitamin C | 3.00 | 12.00 mg |
| 24.00 mg | 0.00 | Choline | 0.00 | 24.00 mg |
| 24.00 mg | 7.00 | Inositol | -7.00 | 17.00 mg |
| 300.00 IU | 0.00 | Vitamin A | 0.00 | 300.00 IU |
| 60.00 IU | 10.00 | Vitamin D | -10.00 | 50.00 IU |