FormulaSeek - Similac Advance RTF vs Enfamil NeuroPro RTF
Updated: 12/7/2024
Introduction
Choosing the right infant formula is a pivotal decision for new parents who aim to provide adequate nutrition for their babies. With various options on the market, understanding the elements of each formula can guide decisions tailored to an infant's needs. In this comparison, we delve into two popular ready-to-feed infant formulas: Similac Advance RTF and Enfamil NeuroPro RTF. Both offer comprehensive nutrition but differ in certain aspects designed to cater to varied dietary preferences and needs.
Nutritional Composition
When assessing infant formulas, the nutritional composition is paramount. Similac Advance RTF and Enfamil NeuroPro RTF, while both designed to mimic breast milk, present differences in their nutritional makeup.
Similac Advance RTF is known for its close resemblance to breast milk, featuring a combination of whey and casein proteins, with a slightly higher whey content. It uses lactose as its primary carbohydrate source and includes a blend of fats derived from sunflower and soy oil.
Enfamil NeuroPro RTF also leans toward breast milk's natural structure but incorporates more MFGM (milk fat globule membrane) for brain development. Its protein composition is balanced, and it uses lactose and corn syrup solids for carbohydrates. The fat content is rich in a blend including palm oil.
Key Differences
| Component | Similac Advance RTF | Enfamil NeuroPro RTF |
|---|---|---|
| Protein Source | Whey-dominant | Balancing whey and casein |
| Carbohydrate Source | Lactose | Lactose, corn syrup solids |
| Fat Source | Sunflower and soy oil | Palm olein, coconut, soy oil |
| Prebiotics and Probiotics | Prebiotics (FOS) | None |
| Omega-3 (DHA/ARA) Levels | Inclusive, moderate | Inclusive, enhanced with MFGM |
| Iron and Calcium Content | Standard | Standard, slightly higher calcium |
| Estimated Cost Per Ounce | Approximately $0.20 | Approximately $0.22 |
| Non-GMO Certification | Yes | Yes |
Special Features and Benefits
Similac Advance RTF is acclaimed for its OptiGRO blend, which comprises DHA, lutein, and vitamin E, essential for brain and eye development. The inclusion of FOS prebiotics also aids in promoting a healthy digestive system.
Enfamil NeuroPro RTF boasts MFGM, reflecting the milk fat globule membrane found in human milk. This component is crucial for cognitive development, setting it apart in terms of brain-supporting nutrients.
Target Audience
Similac Advance RTF is suitable for babies with no specific dietary restrictions, who thrive on standard formulas with additional digestive and immune support features.
Enfamil NeuroPro RTF targets babies whose parents are particularly focused on cognitive development benefits from components like MFGM and DHA, albeit those without sensitive reactions to palm oil.
Alternatives
Alternatives to Similac Advance RTF
- Similac Pro-Advance
- Gerber Good Start Gentle
- Earth's Best Organic Infant Formula
- Happy Baby Organic Infant Formula
- Plum Organics Grow Well Organic Infant Formula
Alternatives to Enfamil NeuroPro RTF
- Enfamil Enspire
- Gerber Good Start Soothe
- Similac Pro-Total Comfort
- Parent's Choice Advantage
- Up&Up Infant Formula Complete
Potential Drawbacks
Similac Advance RTF might not be ideal for parents seeking a formula without soy components. Additionally, while it is non-GMO, it is not certified organic, which may be a concern for some.
Enfamil NeuroPro RTF’s use of palm olein oil may raise eyebrows considering some controversies around digestibility and absorption issues related to this oil. Additionally, it is slightly more expensive compared to Similac Advance, which could be a factor for cost-conscious consumers.
Conclusion
Both Similac Advance RTF and Enfamil NeuroPro RTF present valuable features designed to nurture and support infant development. For parents focused on digestive health and balanced general nutrition, Similac Advance RTF could be the preference. For those prioritizing advanced brain developmental support, Enfamil NeuroPro RTF, with its innovative ingredients like MFGM, stands out. It's prudent for parents to consider these aspects while making a decision and, importantly, consult a pediatrician to tailor choices according to their baby's unique nutritional needs and health conditions.
Sources*
Buy Similac Advance RTF Online
Buy Enfamil NeuroPro RTF Online
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Nutrient comparison
| Similac Advance RTF | +/- | Data | +/- | Enfamil NeuroPro RTF |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5.40 g | 3.30 | Fat | 2.10 g | |
| 11.20 g | Carbohydrate | 0.10 | 11.30 g | |
| 2.07 g | Protein | 0.03 | 2.10 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 RTF |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 78.00 mg | 0.00 | Calcium | 0.00 | 78.00 mg |
| 42.00 mg | 0.00 | Phosphorus | 0.00 | 42.00 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 | 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 | -3.00 | Sodium | 3.00 | 27.00 mg |
| 105.00 mg | -3.00 | Potassium | 3.00 | 108.00 mg |
| 65.00 mg | 2.00 | Chloride | -2.00 | 63.00 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 RTF |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 300.00 IU | 0.00 | Vitamin A | 0.00 | 300.00 IU |
| 60.00 IU | -10.00 | Vitamin D | 10.00 | 70.00 IU |
| 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 | 10.00 | Riboflavin (Vit B2) | -10.00 | 140.00 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 | 0.00 | Inositol | 0.00 | 24.00 mg |