FormulaSeek - Similac Advance RTF vs Enfamil Nutramigen
Updated: 12/7/2024
Introduction
Choosing the right infant formula is critical for the nutritional well-being of your baby, especially when breastfeeding is not an option. With a myriad of choices available, selecting the right formula can be daunting. Today, we explore two popular infant formulas: Similac Advance Ready-to-Feed (RTF) and Enfamil Nutramigen. This comparison will help you make an informed decision that best suits your baby's needs.
Nutritional Composition
The nutritional composition of infant formulas significantly affects a baby's growth and development. Similac Advance RTF is known for its closeness to breast milk and includes DHA, ARA, and various vitamins and minerals. It relies on cow’s milk protein with a balanced whey-to-casein ratio, lactose as its carbohydrate source, and includes safflower oil among its fat sources. Enfamil Nutramigen stands out for its hypoallergenic properties by using extensively hydrolyzed casein protein, corn syrup solids as its carbohydrate source, and a blend of oils for fats.
Key Differences
| Feature | Similac Advance RTF | Enfamil Nutramigen |
|---|---|---|
| Protein Source | Cow's milk, Whey, Casein | Extensively hydrolyzed Casein |
| Carbohydrate Source | Lactose | Corn syrup solids |
| Fat Source | Safflower oil, Soy oil | Oleic safflower oil, Soy oil |
| Prebiotics and Probiotics | Prebiotics included | Probiotics included |
| Omega-3 (DHA/ARA) | Included | Included |
| Iron and Calcium | Standard levels | Standard levels |
| Estimated Cost Per Ounce | ~$0.30 | ~$0.50 |
| Organic or Non-GMO Certification | Non-GMO | Non-GMO |
Special Features and Benefits
Similac Advance RTF is designed to provide complete nutrition that mimics breast milk, with added prebiotics to support digestive health. Enfamil Nutramigen is formulated to reduce colic related to cow's milk protein allergy within 48 hours. Its hydrolyzed proteins and the presence of probiotics aid in developing a balanced gut microbiome.
Target Audience
Similac Advance RTF is ideal for healthy newborns and infants without specific dietary restrictions or allergies. Enfamil Nutramigen is particularly beneficial for babies with allergies or sensitivity to cow's milk protein, lactose intolerance, or colic.
Alternatives to Similac Advance RTF - Gerber Good Start Gentle
- Earth's Best Organic Dairy Infant Formula
- Happy Baby Organic Infant Formula
- Kirkland Signature ProCare
- Parent's Choice Advantage Formula
Alternatives to Enfamil Nutramigen
- Similac Alimentum
- Gerber Extensive HA
- EleCare Infant Formula
- Neocate Infant DHA/ARA
- Enfamil PurAmino
Potential Drawbacks
Similac Advance RTF may not be suitable for infants with lactose intolerance or cow's milk protein allergy. Additionally, some parents may find the cost to be higher compared to powder formulas. Enfamil Nutramigen, while excellent for allergic reactions, is more expensive per ounce and may not be easily accessible in all regions.
Conclusion
Both Similac Advance RTF and Enfamil Nutramigen have their unique advantages, making them suitable for different infant needs. Similac Advance RTF is a great choice for parents seeking a nutrient-complete formula resembling breast milk. On the other hand, Enfamil Nutramigen is advisable for infants with milk allergies or colic symptoms. As always, consult your pediatrician before settling on an infant formula to ensure the best nutrition for your baby.
Sources*
Buy Similac Advance RTF Online
Buy Enfamil Nutramigen Online
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Nutrient comparison
| Similac Advance RTF | +/- | Data | +/- | Enfamil Nutramigen |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5.40 g | 0.10 | Fat | 5.30 g | |
| 11.20 g | 0.90 | Carbohydrate | 10.30 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 Nutramigen |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 78.00 mg | -16.00 | Calcium | 16.00 | 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 RTF | +/- | Vitamin | +/- | Enfamil Nutramigen |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 24.00 mg | Inositol | |||
| 300.00 IU | 0.00 | Vitamin A | 0.00 | 300.00 IU |
| 60.00 IU | 0.00 | Vitamin D | 0.00 | 60.00 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 | 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 mg |
| 9.00 mg | -3.00 | Vitamin C | 3.00 | 12.00 mg |
| 24.00 mg | 0.00 | Choline | 0.00 | 24.00 mg |