FormulaSeek - Similac Alimentum RTF vs Earth's Best Gentle Infant Formula
Updated: 12/7/2024
Introduction
Choosing the right infant formula is crucial for a baby's growth and development, especially when breastfeeding isn't an option or supplemental feeding is needed. Each formula has unique ingredients designed to support various dietary needs and tolerances. In this post, we'll compare two popular options: Similac Alimentum Ready-to-Feed (RTF), known for addressing lactose sensitivity, and Earth's Best Gentle Infant Formula, which is praised for its organic, mild nutrient blends for sensitive tummies.
Nutritional Composition
The nutritional composition in infant formulas can vary significantly, impacting digestion and nutrient absorption. Similac Alimentum RTF is designed with a hydrolyzed casein protein and is lactose-free, making it suitable for infants with milk protein sensitivity. It utilizes corn maltodextrin as a carbohydrate source and contains medium-chain triglycerides as part of its fat sources, providing easily digestible energy.
On the other hand, Earth's Best Gentle Infant Formula emphasizes organic ingredients, using partially hydrolyzed whey protein and lactose as its primary carbohydrate source. Its fat source is a mix of organic oils, including palm olein oil and safflower oil, offering a balanced blend for energy and growth.
Key Differences
| Feature | Similac Alimentum RTF | Earth's Best Gentle Infant Formula |
|---|---|---|
| Protein Source | Hydrolyzed Casein | Partially Hydrolyzed Whey |
| Carbohydrate Source | Corn Maltodextrin | Lactose |
| Fat Source | Medium-chain Triglycerides | Organic Palm Olein, Safflower |
| Prebiotics and Probiotics | None | Prebiotics Included |
| Omega-3 Levels (DHA/ARA) | Yes | Yes |
| Iron and Calcium Content | Standard Levels | Standard Levels |
| Estimated Cost Per Ounce | $0.18 (estimated) | $0.20 (estimated) |
| Organic or Non-GMO | Non-GMO | Organic |
Special Features and Benefits
Similac Alimentum RTF is ideal for infants with severe food allergies or colic, as it contains a highly hydrolyzed protein reducing potential allergens. Its lactose-free formula is suited for lactose-intolerant babies.
Earth's Best Gentle Infant Formula provides an organic and partially hydrolyzed whey protein blend. It's enriched with prebiotics for digestive health and supports immunity, offering a gentle solution for infants with mild sensitivities.
Target Audience
Similac Alimentum RTF is particularly suitable for babies with milk protein sensitivity, allergies, or severe colic. It offers an advanced approach for infants needing swift dietary adaptations.
Earth's Best Gentle Infant Formula caters to parents seeking an organic option for babies with mild digestive issues or those preferring less processed ingredients. Its gentle approach makes it ideal for transitioning between breastfeeding and formula.
Alternatives to Similac Alimentum RTF
- Enfamil Nutramigen
- Gerber Extensive HA
- Neocate Infant DHA/ARA
- Gerber Good Start Soy
- Happy Baby Organic Sensitive Formula
Alternatives to Earth's Best Gentle Infant Formula
- Gerber Good Start Gentle Pro
- Happy Baby Organic Infant Formula
- Plum Organics Gentle Infant Formula
- Similac Organic with A2 Milk
- Bobbie Organic Infant Formula
Potential Drawbacks
Similac Alimentum RTF can be more costly than regular formulas, and its taste might not appeal to all infants. Additionally, its specialized formulation often requires pediatric guidance.
Earth's Best Gentle Infant Formula, while organic, includes palm oil, which is sometimes linked to decreased calcium absorption. Its gentle formula might not sufficiently address severe lactose intolerance.
Conclusion
Both Similac Alimentum RTF and Earth's Best Gentle Infant Formula offer tailored solutions for infant feeding challenges. Similac Alimentum RTF is best for babies needing lactose-free, hypoallergenic nutrition. Meanwhile, Earth's Best Gentle Infant Formula suits those looking for a balanced organic option for mildly sensitive digestion. Always consult a pediatrician to ensure the chosen formula aligns with your baby's health needs and dietary requirements.
Sources*
Buy Similac Alimentum RTF Online
Buy Earth's Best Gentle Infant Formula Online
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Nutrient comparison
| Similac Alimentum RTF | +/- | Data | +/- | Earth's Best Gentle Infant Formula |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5.54 g | 0.24 | Fat | 5.30 g | |
| 10.20 g | Carbohydrate | 0.60 | 10.80 g | |
| 2.75 g | 0.45 | Protein | 2.30 g | |
| 1900.00 mg | 1150.00 | Linoleic Acid | 750.00 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 RTF | +/- | Minerals | +/- | Earth's Best Gentle Infant Formula |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 105.00 mg | 23.00 | Calcium | -23.00 | 82.00 mg |
| 75.00 mg | 29.00 | Phosphorus | -29.00 | 46.00 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 | 8.00 | Sodium | -8.00 | 36.00 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 RTF | +/- | Vitamin | +/- | Earth's Best Gentle Infant Formula |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 300.00 IU | 0.00 | Vitamin A | 0.00 | 300.00 IU |
| 45.00 IU | -15.00 | Vitamin D | 15.00 | 60.00 IU |
| 3.00 IU | 1.00 | Vitamin E | -1.00 | 2.00 IU |
| 15.00 mcg | 6.00 | Vitamin K | -6.00 | 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 | -1.00 | Inositol | 1.00 | 6.00 mg |