FormulaSeek - Similac Alimentum vs Similac Alimentum RTF
Updated: 12/7/2024
Introduction
Choosing the right infant formula is a critical decision for many parents and caregivers. Because infants rely heavily on formula, especially in their first year of life, a well-chosen formula can help ensure optimal nutrition and overall health. Among the various formula options available in the market, Similac Alimentum and Similac Alimentum RTF (Ready to Feed) stand out for babies with special dietary needs. Both are designed to address specific dietary issues, such as allergies, lactose sensitivity, or other feeding challenges. In this blog post, we'll compare the two to help you make the best choice for your little one.
Nutritional Composition
Similac Alimentum and Similac Alimentum RTF are both formulated to provide balanced nutrition which is essential for growing infants. However, the nutritional composition of these two products varies in several ways.
Similac Alimentum is a hypoallergenic formula with extensively hydrolyzed casein protein, meaning that the protein is broken down into smaller pieces to aid digestion and minimize the risk of allergic reactions. It contains corn maltodextrin as a carbohydrate source and high oleic safflower oil, medium-chain triglycerides (MCT), and soy oil as fat sources. The formula also includes vital vitamins and minerals necessary for infant growth and development.
Similac Alimentum RTF, on the other hand, offers a similar nutrient profile in a ready-to-feed format. The RTF version eliminates the need for mixing, which can be more convenient for some parents. It uses a corn maltodextrin and modified tapioca starch blend for carbohydrates and shares similar fat sources as the powdered version.
Key Differences
| Category | Similac Alimentum | Similac Alimentum RTF |
|---|---|---|
| Protein Source | Hydrolyzed Casein | Hydrolyzed Casein |
| Carbohydrate Source | Corn Maltodextrin | Corn Maltodextrin, Modified Tapioca Starch |
| Fat Source | High Oleic Safflower Oil, MCT, Soy Oil | High Oleic Safflower Oil, MCT, Soy Oil |
| Prebiotics & Probiotics | Not Present | Not Present |
| Omega-3 (DHA/ARA) | Contains DHA/ARA | Contains DHA/ARA |
| Iron & Calcium Content | Standard Fortification | Standard Fortification |
| Estimated Cost per Ounce | $0.50 (Estimated) | $0.60 (Estimated) |
| Organic/Non-GMO | Non-GMO | Non-GMO |
Special Features and Benefits
Similac Alimentum's formula is particularly beneficial for infants with milk protein allergies or colic due to protein sensitivity. The extensively hydrolyzed proteins are easier to digest, which can lead to quicker symptom resolution in affected infants.
The Similac Alimentum RTF offers the convenience of a pre-mixed formula, making it ideal for parents who prefer not to measure and mix powder. This can be particularly useful for late-night feedings or travel.
Target Audience
Similac Alimentum and Similac Alimentum RTF are ideal for babies with food allergies, particularly cow's milk protein allergies, or for those with colic due to protein sensitivity. They may also be suitable for lactose-sensitive babies, as both formulas are lactose-free.
Alternatives
For Similac Alimentum
- Enfamil Nutramigen
- Gerber Extensive HA
- Parent's Choice Hypoallergenic
- Earth's Best Organic Sensitivity
- EleCare
For Similac Alimentum RTF
- Enfamil Nutramigen Ready to Use
- Gerber Good Start Extensive HA
- Nutricia Neocate
- Happy Baby Organic Sensitive Ready to Feed
- HiPP HA Combiotik
Potential Drawbacks
Some potential drawbacks for Similac Alimentum include its cost, which is higher than standard formulas due to its specialized nature. Availability might also be an issue, as specialty formulas are not stocked in all stores. Similac Alimentum RTF, while convenient, is often more expensive than its powdered counterpart and generates more waste due to packaging.
Conclusion
Both Similac Alimentum and Similac Alimentum RTF serve a crucial role for infants with dietary challenges such as allergies or lactose sensitivity. Similac Alimentum is a solid choice for parents seeking a hypoallergenic formula with extensively hydrolyzed protein. Meanwhile, those prioritizing convenience or dealing with traveling situations might prefer Similac Alimentum RTF. Regardless of the choice, it's crucial to consult with a pediatrician to ensure the selected formula meets the specific needs of your baby.
Sources*
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Nutrient comparison
| Similac Alimentum | +/- | Data | +/- | Similac Alimentum RTF |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5.54 g | Fat | 5.54 g | ||
| 10.20 g | Carbohydrate | 10.20 g | ||
| 2.75 g | Protein | 2.75 g | ||
| 800.00 mg | Linoleic Acid | 1100.00 | 1900.00 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 | +/- | Similac Alimentum RTF |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 105.00 mg | 0.00 | Calcium | 0.00 | 105.00 mg |
| 75.00 mg | 0.00 | Phosphorus | 0.00 | 75.00 mg |
| 7.50 mg | 0.00 | Magnesium | 0.00 | 7.50 mg |
| 1.80 mg | 0.00 | Iron | 0.00 | 1.80 mg |
| 0.75 mg | 0.00 | Zinc | 0.00 | 0.75 mg |
| 8.00 mcg | 0.00 | Manganese | 0.00 | 8.00 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 | 0.00 | Selenium | 0.00 | 2.00 mcg |
| 44.00 mg | 0.00 | Sodium | 0.00 | 44.00 mg |
| 118.00 mg | 0.00 | Potassium | 0.00 | 118.00 mg |
| 80.00 mg | 0.00 | Chloride | 0.00 | 80.00 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 | +/- | Similac Alimentum RTF |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 60.00 IU | 15.00 | Vitamin D | -15.00 | 45.00 IU |
| 3.00 IU | 0.00 | Vitamin E | 0.00 | 3.00 IU |
| 8.00 mcg | -7.00 | Vitamin K | 7.00 | 15.00 mcg |
| 60.00 mcg | 0.00 | Thiamin (Vit B1) | 0.00 | 60.00 mcg |
| 90.00 mcg | 0.00 | Riboflavin (Vit B2) | 0.00 | 90.00 mcg |
| 60.00 mcg | 0.00 | Vitamin B6 | 0.00 | 60.00 mcg |
| 0.45 mcg | 0.00 | Vitamin B12 | 0.00 | 0.45 mcg |
| 1350.00 mcg | 0.00 | Niacin | 0.00 | 1350.00 mcg |
| 15.00 mcg | 0.00 | Folic Acid | 0.00 | 15.00 mcg |
| 750.00 mcg | 0.00 | Pantothenic Acid | 0.00 | 750.00 mcg |
| 4.50 mcg | 0.00 | Biotin | 0.00 | 4.50 mcg |
| 9.00 mg | 0.00 | Vitamin C | 0.00 | 9.00 mg |
| 12.00 mg | 0.00 | Choline | 0.00 | 12.00 mg |
| 5.00 mg | 0.00 | Inositol | 0.00 | 5.00 mg |
| 300.00 IU | 0.00 | Vitamin A | 0.00 | 300.00 IU |