FormulaSeek - Similac Advance vs Similac Advance RTF
Updated: 12/7/2024
Introduction
The journey of parenthood is filled with countless decisions, and choosing the right infant formula is one of the most crucial. With so many options in the market, it’s vital to consider not only the nutritional content but also the specific needs of your baby. Two popular options many parents consider are Similac Advance and Similac Advance Ready-to-Feed (RTF). While they may seem similar at first glance, understanding their differences can help ensure that your little one receives the best possible start.
Nutritional Composition
Similac Advance and Similac Advance RTF are both designed to closely mimic the protein composition of breast milk, including a balance of whey and casein. However, there are subtle differences in their formulation and ingredient sources. For instance, while both rely on lactose as a primary carbohydrate, the sources and ratios of fats such as palm and safflower oil vary between the two. Similarly, they are enriched with essential vitamins and minerals but may differ in concentration and delivery due to their form—powder versus ready-to-feed liquid.
Key Differences
| Criteria | Similac Advance | Similac Advance RTF |
|---|---|---|
| Protein Source | Whey-to-casein ratio: 60:40 | Whey-to-casein ratio: 48:52 |
| Carbohydrate Source | Lactose | Lactose |
| Fat Source | Palm olein oil, high oleic safflower oil | High oleic safflower oil, coconut oil |
| Prebiotics and Probiotics | Contains prebiotics | Contains prebiotics |
| Omega-3 (DHA/ARA) Levels | Added DHA/ARA | Added DHA/ARA |
| Iron and Calcium Content | Standard iron and calcium | Standard iron and calcium |
| Estimated Cost per Ounce | $0.15 (estimated) | $0.25 (estimated) |
| Organic or non-GMO Certification | Non-GMO | Non-GMO |
Special Features and Benefits
Similac Advance and Similac Advance RTF don’t just provide basic nutrition; they also offer specific benefits aligned with infant health trends. For instance, both formulas include prebiotics to support digestive health and DHA/ARA for brain and eye development. The RTF version, being a pre-mixed liquid, is particularly convenient for parents on-the-go or for nighttime feedings, eliminating the need for preparation.
Target Audience
Similac Advance is highly suitable for infants with standard nutritional needs, providing a balance that supports growth similar to breast milk. Similac Advance RTF, in addition to serving the same purpose, is ideal for situations requiring utmost convenience, such as travel or immediate feeding needs, without worrying about mixed proportions or water quality.
Alternatives for Similac Advance
1. Enfamil Infant
2. Gerber Good Start Gentle
3. Earth's Best Organic Dairy Infant Formula
4. Happy Baby Organic Infant Formula
5. Parent's Choice Infant Formula
Alternatives for Similac Advance RTF
1. Enfamil NeuroPro Ready-to-Feed
2. Gerber Good Start Gentle Pro Ready-to-Feed
3. Earth's Best Organic Ready-to-Feed
4. Parent's Choice Gentle Formula Ready-to-Feed
5. Happy Baby Ready-to-Feed Organic Formula
Potential Drawbacks
While providing comprehensive nutrition, Similac Advance can require time and precision in preparation, which may not suit every parent’s lifestyle. On the other hand, Similac Advance RTF embodies convenience but comes at a higher cost per ounce, which can add up over time. Additionally, both formulas contain palm olein and high oleic safflower oil, which have raised concerns among some parents regarding potential impacts on growth and nutrient absorption.
Conclusion
Choosing between Similac Advance and Similac Advance RTF hinges on your child's specific needs and your personal circumstances. Similac Advance offers balanced nutrition for infants, ideal for those who prefer mixing formula themselves at home. Meanwhile, Similac Advance RTF is perfect for convenience, providing instant feeding solutions without the muss and fuss of mixing. However, it's wise to consider factors such as cost, ingredient preferences, and availability. Always consult with a pediatrician to ensure that the chosen formula aligns with your baby's dietary and health needs.
Sources*
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Nutrient comparison
| Similac Advance | +/- | Data | +/- | Similac Advance RTF |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5.60 g | 0.20 | Fat | 5.40 g | |
| 10.70 g | Carbohydrate | 0.50 | 11.20 g | |
| 2.07 g | Protein | 2.07 g | ||
| 1000.00 mg | 1000.00 | Linoleic Acid | 0 |
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 | +/- | Similac Advance RTF |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 45.00 mg | -33.00 | Calcium | 33.00 | 78.00 mg |
| 42.00 mg | 0.00 | Phosphorus | 0.00 | 42.00 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 |
| 24.00 mg | 0.00 | Sodium | 0.00 | 24.00 mg |
| 105.00 mg | 0.00 | Potassium | 0.00 | 105.00 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 Advance | +/- | Vitamin | +/- | Similac Advance 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 |