FormulaSeek - Similac Advance RTF vs Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive RTF
Updated: 12/7/2024
Introduction
Choosing the right infant formula is a pivotal decision for many parents, as it can significantly impact a baby's nutritional health, comfort, and growth during early developmental stages. This blog post explores two prominent formulas in the Similac line: Similac Advance RTF and Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive RTF. Both boast comprehensive nutritional profiles, but they cater to slightly different needs. Understanding these distinctions can help parents select the formula that best aligns with their baby's specific needs.
Nutritional Composition
Nutritional content is crucial when choosing an infant formula since it directly aligns with the baby's health needs and developmental stages. Similac Advance RTF is designed with a balance of nutrients, featuring a protein type that is generally whey-dominant. The carbohydrate source is predominantly lactose, closely mimicking breast milk. It also takes advantage of palm olein oil with a blend of other fats. In contrast, Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive RTF is tailored for infants prone to sensitivity issues, utilizing slightly different ingredients to ensure easier digestion without compromising nutrition.
Key Differences
| Feature | Similac Advance RTF | Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive RTF |
|---|---|---|
| Protein Source | Whey-to-casein ratio: High in Whey | Whey-to-casein ratio: Hydrolyzed protein |
| Carbohydrate Source | Lactose | Reduced lactose content |
| Fat Source | Palm olein oil blend | Non-palm olein oil blend |
| Prebiotics and Probiotics | Galactooligosaccharides (GOS) | 2'-FL HMO Prebiotics |
| Omega-3 (DHA/ARA) Levels | Included | Higher DHA/ARA content |
| Iron and Calcium Content | Standard levels | Enhanced levels |
| Estimated Cost per Ounce | $0.50 - Estimated | $0.60 - Estimated |
| Organic or Non-GMO Certification | Non-GMO sourced | Non-GMO sourced |
Special Features and Benefits
The Similac Advance RTF is crafted for general developmental needs, featuring DHA for brain development and prebiotics to support gut health. On the other hand, Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive RTF is optimized for sensitive stomachs, with partially hydrolyzed protein and reduced lactose for easy digestion.
Target Audience
Similac Advance RTF suits the general infant population, particularly those without specific dietary sensitivities. Meanwhile, Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive RTF is ideal for babies who experience discomfort or issues with regular formulas, such as those sensitive to lactose.
Alternatives for Similac Advance RTF
- Enfamil Infant Formula
- Gerber Good Start Gentle
- Earth’s Best Organic Infant Formula
- Parent’s Choice Infant Formula
- Happy Baby Organics
Alternatives for Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive RTF
- Enfamil Gentlease
- Gerber Good Start Soothe
- Similac Sensitive Non-GMO
- Earth’s Best Sensitive Formula
- Parent’s Choice Sensitivity Formula
Potential Drawbacks
While Similac Advance RTF is effective in its nutritional delivery, some parents have reported concerns about its use of palm olein oil, which can be hard on some infants' digestive systems. Additionally, it may be costlier than some other basic formulas. The Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive RTF, while great for sensitive tummies, has a higher price point, which can make it less accessible for budget-conscious families.
Conclusion
Ultimately, both Similac Advance RTF and Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive RTF offer robust nutritional foundations for infants. The choice between them largely depends on the baby's specific needs and potential sensitivities. While Similac Advance RTF is a reliable choice for the general infant population, Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive RTF is tailored for those with digestive sensitivities. Always consult with a pediatrician when deciding on an infant formula to ensure the chosen option supports your baby's health and developmental needs optimally.
Sources*
Buy Similac Advance RTF Online
Buy Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive RTF Online
+ Links are reviewed periodically for accuracy; failing links might mean the product is currently unavailable.
Start here
Nutrient comparison
| Similac Advance RTF | +/- | Data | +/- | Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive RTF |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5.40 g | Fat | 5.40 g | ||
| 11.20 g | 0.30 | Carbohydrate | 10.90 g | |
| 2.07 g | Protein | 0.03 | 2.10 g | |
| 0 | Linoleic Acid | 1000.00 | 1000.00 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 | +/- | Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive RTF |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 78.00 mg | -6.00 | Calcium | 6.00 | 84.00 mg |
| 42.00 mg | -14.00 | Phosphorus | 14.00 | 56.00 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 | -6.00 | Sodium | 6.00 | 30.00 mg |
| 105.00 mg | -2.00 | Potassium | 2.00 | 107.00 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 RTF | +/- | Vitamin | +/- | Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive RTF |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 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 | 0.00 | 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 |