FormulaSeek - Similac Advance RTF vs Enfamil NeuroPro EnfaCare
Updated: 12/7/2024
Introduction
Choosing the right infant formula is a crucial decision for parents who may not be breastfeeding or are supplementing their breast milk. Infant formulas are designed to mimic the nutritional components of human milk and support the healthy development of infants. Among the myriad options available, Similac Advance RTF and Enfamil NeuroPro EnfaCare are two popular choices, each with its distinct composition tailored to meet the various needs of infants.
Nutritional Composition
The nutritional profile of infant formulas is a major factor that influences parental choice. Similac Advance RTF and Enfamil NeuroPro EnfaCare both aim to support healthy growth and cognitive development but differ in their nutritional components.
Similac Advance RTF uses whey and casein proteins with a protein balance resembling breast milk. The carbohydrate source is primarily lactose, emulating the primary sugar in breast milk. The fat blend contains oils such as palm olein, soy, and coconut oil.
Enfamil NeuroPro EnfaCare is tailored for premature or low-birth-weight infants, emphasizing higher calorie and nutrient-dense content. Protein sources include whey and casein with a focus on an enhanced whey ratio. The carbohydrates primarily come from lactose, and fats include a blend of safflower, soy, and coconut oils. Enfamil is known for its MFGM (Milk Fat Globule Membrane) and prebiotic mix to enhance digestion and brain development.
Key Differences
| Components | Similac Advance RTF | Enfamil NeuroPro EnfaCare |
|---|---|---|
| Protein Source | Whey/Casein (60/40) | Whey/Casein, Enhanced Whey |
| Carbohydrate Source | Lactose | Lactose |
| Fat Source | Palm Olein Oil, Soy | Safflower Oil, Soy |
| Prebiotics/Probiotics | GOS (Galacto-oligosaccharides) | Prebiotic mix, No probiotics |
| Omega-3 DHA/ARA Levels | Available | Enhanced Levels |
| Iron/Calcium Content | Standard | Higher for Premature Infants |
| Estimated Cost per Ounce | $0.50 (estimate) | $0.70 (estimate) |
| Certification | Non-GMO | Non-GMO |
Special Features and Benefits
Similac Advance RTF is beneficial for parents looking for a formula that closely mimics breast milk, with its balance of protein and non-GMO certification. Its inclusion of GOS prebiotics supports gut health. Enfamil NeuroPro EnfaCare features enhanced nutrient density, beneficial for premature or low-birth-weight infants requiring nutritional support for catch-up growth. Its formula includes DHA, ARA, and MFGM components, which support brain development and connective tissue growth.
Target Audience
Similac Advance RTF is suited for healthy, full-term infants without specific dietary needs, offering balanced nutrition similar to breast milk. Enfamil NeuroPro EnfaCare is better suited for premature babies, those with low birth weight, or infants needing extra nutritional support due to developmental concerns.
Alternatives
Similac Advance RTF Alternatives
- Similac Pro-Advance
- Gerber Good Start Gentle
- Earth's Best Organic Infant Formula
- Happy Baby Organic Infant Formula
- Kirkland Signature Infant Formula
Enfamil NeuroPro EnfaCare Alternatives
- Similac Special Care
- Gerber Good Start Soothe
- Enfamil EnfaCare Gentlease
- NeoSure by Similac
- Earth’s Best Sensitivity
Potential Drawbacks
Similac Advance RTF’s use of palm olein oil is sometimes criticized for potentially decreasing calcium absorption. Enfamil NeuroPro EnfaCare is typically more expensive due to its premium ingredients and targeted benefits, potentially increasing the cost for parents of preterm infants. Both formulas may have limited availability based on geographic location and retail stocking.
Conclusion
In summary, both Similac Advance RTF and Enfamil NeuroPro EnfaCare provide specific benefits tailored to different infant needs. Parents looking for a standard, non-GMO formula that aligns closely with breast milk may consider Similac Advance RTF. In contrast, those requiring enhanced nutrition for premature or lower birth-weight infants may find Enfamil NeuroPro EnfaCare more suitable. Always consult a pediatrician to tailor formula choices to an infant's unique nutritional requirements and health considerations.
Sources*
Buy Similac Advance RTF Online
Buy Enfamil NeuroPro EnfaCare Online
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Nutrient comparison
| Similac Advance RTF | +/- | Data | +/- | Enfamil NeuroPro EnfaCare |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5.40 g | 0.10 | Fat | 5.30 g | |
| 11.20 g | 0.80 | Carbohydrate | 10.40 g | |
| 2.07 g | Protein | 0.73 | 2.80 g | |
| 0 | Linoleic Acid | 780.00 | 780.00 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 RTF | +/- | Minerals | +/- | Enfamil NeuroPro EnfaCare |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 78.00 mg | -42.00 | Calcium | 42.00 | 120.00 mg |
| 42.00 mg | -24.00 | Phosphorus | 24.00 | 66.00 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 | -10.00 | Manganese | 10.00 | 15.00 mcg |
| 90.00 mcg | 0.00 | Copper | 0.00 | 90.00 mcg |
| 15.00 mcg | -6.00 | Iodine | 6.00 | 21.00 mcg |
| 2.00 mcg | -0.80 | Selenium | 0.80 | 2.80 mcg |
| 24.00 mg | -13.00 | Sodium | 13.00 | 37.00 mg |
| 105.00 mg | 0.00 | Potassium | 0.00 | 105.00 mg |
| 65.00 mg | -13.00 | Chloride | 13.00 | 78.00 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 RTF | +/- | Vitamin | +/- | Enfamil NeuroPro EnfaCare |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 300.00 IU | -150.00 | Vitamin A | 150.00 | 450.00 IU |
| 60.00 IU | -15.00 | Vitamin D | 15.00 | 75.00 IU |
| 1.50 IU | -2.50 | Vitamin E | 2.50 | 4.00 IU |
| 8.00 mcg | -1.00 | Vitamin K | 1.00 | 9.00 mcg |
| 100.00 mcg | -80.00 | Thiamin (Vit B1) | 80.00 | 180.00 mcg |
| 150.00 mcg | -50.00 | Riboflavin (Vit B2) | 50.00 | 200.00 mcg |
| 60.00 mcg | -7.00 | Vitamin B6 | 7.00 | 67.00 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 | -11.00 | Folic Acid | 11.00 | 26.00 mcg |
| 450.00 mcg | -400.00 | Pantothenic Acid | 400.00 | 850.00 mcg |
| 4.40 mcg | -1.60 | Biotin | 1.60 | 6.00 mcg |
| 9.00 mg | -7.00 | Vitamin C | 7.00 | 16.00 mg |
| 24.00 mg | 0.00 | Choline | 0.00 | 24.00 mg |
| 24.00 mg | 0.00 | Inositol | 0.00 | 24.00 mg |