FormulaSeek - Similac Alimentum RTF vs Enfamil Enspire
Updated: 12/7/2024
Introduction
Choosing the right infant formula is a significant decision for many parents, as it plays a crucial role in early childhood nutrition and development. Selecting the correct formula ensures that an infant receives essential nutrients for growth, development, and overall well-being. Among many options available in the market, Similac Alimentum RTF and Enfamil Enspire are two noteworthy formulas. Similac Alimentum RTF is known for its hypoallergenic properties, while Enfamil Enspire is recognized for its comprehensive nutritional profile that closely resembles breast milk.
Nutritional Composition
Both Similac Alimentum RTF and Enfamil Enspire provide essential nutrients required for a baby's development but differ in their nutritional composition. Similac Alimentum RTF is designed especially for infants with food allergies and is free from lactose, utilizing extensively hydrolyzed casein as its protein source. It also uses corn maltodextrin as its carbohydrate source and has a blend of high oleic safflower, medium-chain triglycerides (MCT), and soy oil as fat sources.
Enfamil Enspire, on the other hand, is designed to mimic human milk and provides a premium blend of protein derived from both whey and casein. It includes lactose as the carbohydrate source, and its fat source incorporates palm olein, coconut, soy, and high oleic sunflower oils. Additionally, it is enriched with vitamins and minerals necessary for infants, including iron, calcium, and omega-3 DHA/ARA.
Key Differences
| Feature | Similac Alimentum RTF | Enfamil Enspire |
|---|---|---|
| Protein Source | Extensively hydrolyzed casein | 60% whey, 40% casein blend |
| Carbohydrate Source | Corn maltodextrin | Lactose |
| Fat Source | Safflower, soy, MCT oils | Palm olein, coconut, soy, high oleic sunflower oils |
| Prebiotics and Probiotics | None | Contains Lactoferrin and MFGM |
| Omega-3 (DHA/ARA) | Present | Present |
| Iron and Calcium Content | Enhanced levels for sensitive stomachs | Standard levels |
| Estimated Cost per Ounce | $0.35 (estimate) | $0.40 (estimate) |
| Organic/Non-GMO | Non-GMO | Non-GMO |
Special Features and Benefits
Similac Alimentum RTF is specifically formulated for infants with food allergies or intolerance. Its extensively hydrolyzed protein is broken down into smaller pieces, making it easier to digest and less likely to cause allergic reactions. It is ready-to-feed, offering convenience for parents.
Enfamil Enspire is designed to mimic breast milk, incorporating high-quality proteins and nutrients such as lactoferrin and MFGM (milk fat globule membrane) which support immune health and cognitive development. Its formula includes both DHA and ARA for brain and eye development.
Target Audience
Similac Alimentum RTF is ideal for infants with allergies, colic due to protein sensitivity, or who have trouble digesting standard formulas. It is an excellent fit for babies needing a softer, hypoallergenic diet.
Enfamil Enspire is suited for babies without specific dietary restrictions who can benefit from a formula similar to breast milk, with added nutrients that foster growth and brain development.
Alternatives to Similac Alimentum RTF
- Nutramigen with Enflora LGG
- Gerber Good Start Extensive HA
- HiPP HA Combiotik
- Earth's Best Organic Sensitivity Formula
- Parent's Choice Hypoallergenic Infant Formula
Alternatives to Enfamil Enspire
- Similac Pro-Advance
- Earth's Best Organic Infant Formula
- Gerber Good Start Gentle
- Kirkland Signature Formula
- Happy Baby Organic Infant Formula
Potential Drawbacks
Similac Alimentum RTF can be relatively expensive compared to other formulas and is not always available in all regions, which may limit accessibility for some parents. Concerns have been raised over its cost-effectiveness given its specific target audience.
Enfamil Enspire also comes at a premium price, which could be prohibitive for some families. Some parents might be cautious about the inclusion of palm olein oil, which has been debated regarding its potential impact on nutrient absorption.
Conclusion
In summary, both Similac Alimentum RTF and Enfamil Enspire offer distinct benefits tailored to specific needs. Similac Alimentum RTF is a lifesaver for infants with allergies or sensitive stomachs, offering a hypoallergenic solution with its extensively hydrolyzed proteins. In contrast, Enfamil Enspire provides a nutrient-rich formula that closely resembles breast milk, promoting cognitive and immune development.
Parents are advised to assess their baby's specific needs, lifestyle, and budget when choosing between these formulas. Consulting with a pediatrician can provide additional guidance to ensure the selection of the most appropriate formula for their infant's unique nutritional requirements and health conditions.
Sources*
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Nutrient comparison
| Similac Alimentum RTF | +/- | Data | +/- | Enfamil Enspire |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5.54 g | 0.24 | Fat | 5.30 g | |
| 10.20 g | Carbohydrate | 0.90 | 11.10 g | |
| 2.75 g | 0.65 | Protein | 2.10 g | |
| 1900.00 mg | 1120.00 | 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 RTF | +/- | Minerals | +/- | Enfamil Enspire |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 105.00 mg | 27.00 | Calcium | -27.00 | 78.00 mg |
| 75.00 mg | 32.00 | Phosphorus | -32.00 | 43.00 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 RTF | +/- | Vitamin | +/- | Enfamil Enspire |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 300.00 IU | 0.00 | Vitamin A | 0.00 | 300.00 IU |
| 45.00 IU | -25.00 | Vitamin D | 25.00 | 70.00 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 | -19.00 | Inositol | 19.00 | 24.00 mg |