FormulaSeek - Similac Alimentum vs Enfamil NeuroPro RTF
Updated: 12/7/2024
Introduction
Choosing the right infant formula is a pivotal decision for parents who are unable to breastfeed or choose to supplement breastfeeding. Infant formulas are designed to be as close as possible to human milk and cater to the nutritional needs of infants. Two widely recognized brands, Similac Alimentum and Enfamil NeuroPro RTF, offer specialized formulas to cater to different dietary needs of infants. Similac Alimentum is formulated for infants with food allergies and colic due to protein sensitivity, whereas Enfamil NeuroPro RTF is targeted toward brain development and overall growth.
Nutritional Composition
Understanding the nutritional composition of infant formulas is crucial to selecting the best option for your child. Similac Alimentum uses extensively hydrolyzed casein protein to aid digestion for babies with allergies, while Enfamil NeuroPro RTF primarily features a healthy balance of whey and casein proteins. Additionally, the carbohydrate sources, fat composition, and added vitamins and minerals cater to the distinctive needs of different babies.
Key Differences
| Feature | Similac Alimentum | Enfamil NeuroPro RTF |
|---|---|---|
| Protein Source | Extensively Hydrolyzed Casein | Partially Hydrolyzed Whey and Casein |
| Carbohydrate Source | Modified Corn Starch | Lactose |
| Fat Source | Safflower Oil | Palm Oil |
| Prebiotics and Probiotics | No | Yes |
| Omega-3 (DHA/ARA) Levels | 200 mg/L | 320 mg/L |
| Iron Content | 12 mg/L | 11 mg/L |
| Calcium Content | 105 mg/100 kcal | 78 mg/100 kcal |
| Estimated Cost per Ounce | $0.30 | $0.35 |
| Organic or Non-GMO Certification | Non-GMO | Non-GMO |
Special Features and Benefits
Similac Alimentum is designed for infants with allergies and colic due to protein sensitivities. It uses hydrolyzed proteins making it easier to digest. Enfamil NeuroPro RTF includes a unique brain-building blend inspired by breast milk and contains DHA for brain development, along with prebiotics and probiotics to enhance gut health.
Target Audience
Similac Alimentum is best suited for infants with severe food allergies, lactose sensitivity, or protein intolerance, including conditions like colic. On the other hand, Enfamil NeuroPro RTF is targeted at infants who need enhanced brain development and overall growth support, particularly premature babies and those transitioning from breast milk.
Alternatives
Alternatives for Similac Alimentum
1. Nutramigen Hypoallergenic Infant Formula.
2. Gerber Extensive HA Hypoallergenic.
3. Enfamil Pregestimil.
4. EleCare Infant Formula.
5. Neocate Infant DHA/ARA.
Alternatives for Enfamil NeuroPro RTF
1. Similac Pro-Advance Infant Formula.
2. Earth's Best Organic Infant Formula.
3. Gerber Good Start GentlePro.
4. Happy Baby Organic Infant Formula.
5. Plum Organics Grow Well Infant Formula.
Potential Drawbacks
Similac Alimentum can be more expensive than regular formulas, making cost a potential issue for some families. Also, the specialized proteins may result in an unusual taste that some babies might not prefer. Enfamil NeuroPro RTF, while rich in beneficial nutrients, also tends to be pricier. It contains palm oil, which is sometimes controversial for being less palatable for certain infants and for potential environmental concerns regarding palm oil production.
Conclusion
Both Similac Alimentum and Enfamil NeuroPro RTF offer unique benefits. Similac Alimentum is ideal for infants with severe dietary restrictions or allergies, while Enfamil NeuroPro RTF is better suited for promoting brain development. Both formulas carry their own considerations regarding cost and ingredient sources. Parents should consult with a pediatrician when deciding which formula is the best fit for their baby's needs and health conditions. Prices can fluctuate; therefore, the aforementioned costs are estimates and might vary depending on the location and store.
Sources*
Buy Similac Alimentum Online
Buy Enfamil NeuroPro RTF Online
+ Links are reviewed periodically for accuracy; failing links might mean the product is currently unavailable.
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Nutrient comparison
| Similac Alimentum | +/- | Data | +/- | Enfamil NeuroPro RTF |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5.54 g | 3.44 | Fat | 2.10 g | |
| 10.20 g | Carbohydrate | 1.10 | 11.30 g | |
| 2.75 g | 0.65 | Protein | 2.10 g | |
| 800.00 mg | 20.00 | Linoleic Acid | 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 Alimentum | +/- | Minerals | +/- | Enfamil NeuroPro RTF |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 105.00 mg | 27.00 | Calcium | -27.00 | 78.00 mg |
| 75.00 mg | 33.00 | Phosphorus | -33.00 | 42.00 mg |
| 7.50 mg | -0.50 | Magnesium | 0.50 | 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 |
| 8.00 mcg | -7.00 | Manganese | 7.00 | 15.00 mcg |
| 75.00 mcg | 0.00 | Copper | 0.00 | 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 |
| 44.00 mg | 17.00 | Sodium | -17.00 | 27.00 mg |
| 118.00 mg | 10.00 | Potassium | -10.00 | 108.00 mg |
| 80.00 mg | 17.00 | Chloride | -17.00 | 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 Alimentum | +/- | Vitamin | +/- | Enfamil NeuroPro RTF |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 60.00 IU | -10.00 | Vitamin D | 10.00 | 70.00 IU |
| 3.00 IU | 1.00 | Vitamin E | -1.00 | 2.00 IU |
| 8.00 mcg | -1.00 | Vitamin K | 1.00 | 9.00 mcg |
| 60.00 mcg | -20.00 | Thiamin (Vit B1) | 20.00 | 80.00 mcg |
| 90.00 mcg | -50.00 | Riboflavin (Vit B2) | 50.00 | 140.00 mcg |
| 60.00 mcg | 0.00 | Vitamin B6 | 0.00 | 60.00 mcg |
| 0.45 mcg | 0.15 | Vitamin B12 | -0.15 | 0.30 mcg |
| 1350.00 mcg | 350.00 | Niacin | -350.00 | 1000.00 mcg |
| 15.00 mcg | -1.00 | Folic Acid | 1.00 | 16.00 mcg |
| 750.00 mcg | 250.00 | Pantothenic Acid | -250.00 | 500.00 mcg |
| 4.50 mcg | 1.50 | Biotin | -1.50 | 3.00 mcg |
| 9.00 mg | -3.00 | Vitamin C | 3.00 | 12.00 mg |
| 12.00 mg | -12.00 | Choline | 12.00 | 24.00 mg |
| 5.00 mg | -19.00 | Inositol | 19.00 | 24.00 mg |
| 300.00 IU | 0.00 | Vitamin A | 0.00 | 300.00 IU |