FormulaSeek - Similac Advance vs Similac Alimentum RTF
Updated: 12/7/2024
Introduction
Choosing the right infant formula is a crucial decision for parents, especially for those who cannot breastfeed or need to supplement breastfeeding. The right formula provides essential nutrition, supports healthy growth, and can help manage specific dietary needs or sensitivities. Among the various options available, Similac Advance and Similac Alimentum Ready-to-Feed (RTF) are two popular choices, each catering to different nutritional requirements and situations.
Similac Advance is designed to support comprehensive nutrition and development for most infants, while Similac Alimentum RTF is specifically formulated for babies with food allergies or sensitivities. Below, we compare these two infant formulas based on their nutritional makeup, features, and suitability for different needs.
Nutritional Composition
Both Similac Advance and Similac Alimentum RTF are packed with essential nutrients, but there are key differences in their compositions based on their target uses. Similac Advance includes a standard whey-to-casein protein blend typical of traditional formulas, utilizing lactose as the primary carbohydrate source and a blend of plant-based oils, including palm olein, safflower, and coconut oils, to provide essential fatty acids.
Similac Alimentum RTF, on the other hand, contains extensively hydrolyzed casein protein, which is broken down for ease of digestion, making it suitable for infants with sensitivities. Its carbohydrate source is mainly corn maltodextrin, which can be gentler on sensitive stomachs. The fat blend excludes palm olein and includes medium-chain triglycerides (MCT) oil for better digestion in sensitive infants.
Key Differences
| Feature | Similac Advance | Similac Alimentum RTF |
|---|---|---|
| Protein Source | Whey and Casein (60:40) | Extensively Hydrolyzed Casein |
| Carbohydrate Source | Lactose | Corn Maltodextrin |
| Fat Source | Palm Olein, Soy, Coconut | MCT Oil, Soy, Coconut |
| Prebiotics and Probiotics | Prebiotics (FOS) | None |
| Omega-3 (DHA/ARA) Levels | Yes | Yes |
| Iron and Calcium Content | Higher Iron, Balanced Calcium | Iron-fortified, Enhanced Calcium |
| Estimated Cost per Ounce | Approx. $0.50 | Approx. $1.20 |
| Organic or Non-GMO Certification | Non-GMO | Non-GMO |
Special Features and Benefits
Similac Advance: This formula includes essential nutrients like DHA and ARA, which support brain and eye development. It is also fortified with prebiotics for digestive health and has a balanced whey-to-casein protein ratio for easy digestion.
Similac Alimentum RTF: Its primary feature is its extensively hydrolyzed protein, which helps manage colicky symptoms and food allergies by allowing easier digestion. The inclusion of MCT oils enables better absorption of fats, making it beneficial for infants with fat malabsorption issues.
Target Audience
Similac Advance: This formula is ideal for healthy, full-term infants without specific dietary restrictions or allergies. It's suitable for parents looking for a standard, reliable formula that mimics the nutritional profile of breast milk.
Similac Alimentum RTF: This is particularly beneficial for infants with milk protein allergies, severe colic, or intolerances to lactose. It can be a crucial product for sensitive babies who require a more specialized nutrition solution.
Alternatives
Alternatives to Similac Advance
1. Enfamil NeuroPro Infant Formula
2. Gerber Good Start GentlePro
3. Earth's Best Organic Infant Formula
4. Happy Baby Organic Infant Formula
5. Plum Organics Grow Well Infant Formula
Alternatives to Similac Alimentum RTF
1. Enfamil Nutramigen with Enflora LGG
2. Gerber Extensive HA
3. EleCare Infant Formula
4. Neocate Infant DHA/ARA
5. PurAmino Hypoallergenic Infant Formula
Potential Drawbacks
Similac Advance: While this formula offers comprehensive nutrition, it contains palm olein oil, which some consumers might prefer to avoid. Additionally, it may not be suitable for babies with lactose sensitivities or protein allergies.
Similac Alimentum RTF: The main drawback is the cost, which is relatively higher than standard infant formulas due to its specialized ingredients. It's also less readily available in some areas as compared to other mainstream formulas.
Conclusion
Both Similac Advance and Similac Alimentum RTF are leading choices in the infant formula market, each catering to different nutritional needs. Similac Advance is perfect for healthy infants needing complete nutrition, while Similac Alimentum RTF offers a specialized solution for those with allergies and sensitivities. It's essential for parents to assess their baby's specific dietary requirements and consult with a pediatrician to choose the most appropriate formula. With the right knowledge and guidance, you can ensure your baby receives the nutrition they need for healthy growth and development.
Note: Prices mentioned are estimates and can vary based on location, retailer, and availability.
Sources*
Buy Similac Advance Online
Buy Similac Alimentum RTF Online
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Nutrient comparison
| Similac Advance | +/- | Data | +/- | Similac Alimentum RTF |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5.60 g | 0.06 | Fat | 5.54 g | |
| 10.70 g | 0.50 | Carbohydrate | 10.20 g | |
| 2.07 g | Protein | 0.68 | 2.75 g | |
| 1000.00 mg | Linoleic Acid | 900.00 | 1900.00 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 | +/- | Similac Alimentum RTF |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 45.00 mg | -60.00 | Calcium | 60.00 | 105.00 mg |
| 42.00 mg | -33.00 | Phosphorus | 33.00 | 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 |
| 24.00 mg | -20.00 | Sodium | 20.00 | 44.00 mg |
| 105.00 mg | -13.00 | Potassium | 13.00 | 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 Advance | +/- | Vitamin | +/- | Similac Alimentum RTF |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1.50 IU | -1.50 | Vitamin E | 1.50 | 3.00 IU |
| 8.00 mcg | -7.00 | Vitamin K | 7.00 | 15.00 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 | 15.00 | Vitamin D | -15.00 | 45.00 IU |