FormulaSeek - Similac Alimentum RTF vs Enfamil Nutramigen
Updated: 12/7/2024
Introduction
Choosing the right infant formula is crucial for providing your baby with the necessary nutrients for healthy growth and development. For many parents and caregivers, deciding on the best formula can be overwhelming due to the multitude of options available. Among the specialized formulas, Similac Alimentum RTF and Enfamil Nutramigen are popular choices, particularly for babies with specific dietary needs. This blog post will provide a comprehensive comparison of these two formulas to help you make an informed decision.
Nutritional Composition
Both Similac Alimentum RTF and Enfamil Nutramigen are hypoallergenic formulas designed for infants with allergies or sensitivities. However, their nutritional compositions vary in terms of protein, carbohydrate, and fat sources, as well as vitamins and minerals.
Similac Alimentum RTF utilizes a hydrolyzed casein protein, broken down into smaller pieces to minimize allergic reactions. Its carbohydrate source is corn maltodextrin, designed to be easy on sensitive stomachs. The formula's fat blend includes safflower oil, soy oil, and coconut oil, which supply essential fatty acids.
Enfamil Nutramigen uses extensively hydrolyzed casein as its protein source to prevent allergic responses. It also features corn syrup solids for an easily absorbed carbohydrate source. The fat blend contains palm oil, coconut oil, soy oil, and single-cell oils, which offer DHA and ARA for brain and eye development.
Key Differences
| Feature | Similac Alimentum RTF | Enfamil Nutramigen |
|---|---|---|
| Protein Source | Hydrolyzed casein | Extensively hydrolyzed casein |
| Carbohydrate Source | Corn maltodextrin | Corn syrup solids |
| Fat Source | Safflower oil, soy oil, coconut oil | Palm oil, coconut oil, soy oil |
| Prebiotics/Probiotics | None | Probiotics (Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG) |
| Omega-3 (DHA/ARA) Levels | Present | Present |
| Iron Content | Available | Available |
| Calcium Content | Available | Available |
| Estimated Cost per Ounce | $0.75 | $1.05 |
| Organic/Non-GMO | Non-GMO | Non-GMO |
Note: Prices are estimated and may vary.
Special Features and Benefits
Similac Alimentum RTF is specifically designed for babies with severe food allergies, colic due to protein sensitivity, or digestive issues. Its ready-to-feed nature eliminates the necessity of preparation, making it convenient for parents.
Enfamil Nutramigen includes the probiotic Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG, which may promote gut health and help manage colic symptoms. It is recognized for its rapid relief from the symptoms of cow's milk allergies.
Target Audience
Similac Alimentum RTF is ideal for infants with severe allergies to milk proteins or colic caused by protein sensitivity. The ready-to-use formula is perfect for parents seeking a convenient option.
Enfamil Nutramigen targets babies with cow's milk protein allergies and those who experience colic. Its beneficial probiotics and hypoallergenic composition cater to sensitive digestive systems.
Alternatives
For Similac Alimentum RTF
- Similac Pro-Total Comfort
- Gerber Extensive HA
- Earth's Best Organic Sensitivity
- Gerber Good Start SoothePro
- Parent's Choice Sensitivity
For Enfamil Nutramigen
- Enfamil Gentlease
- Similac Pro-Advance
- PurAmino Infant Formula
- Neocate Syneo Infant
- HiPP HA Combiotik
Potential Drawbacks
Similac Alimentum RTF: The high cost can be a concern for many families. Additionally, some parents notice an unpleasant smell and taste that may not appeal to all infants.
Enfamil Nutramigen: It is comparatively expensive, and some parents report it has an unappealing flavor. Availability in some regions can also be limited.
Conclusion
In summary, Similac Alimentum RTF and Enfamil Nutramigen provide targeted nutrition for infants with specific dietary needs. While Similac Alimentum RTF is well-suited for those needing a convenient, ready-to-use option, Enfamil Nutramigen offers additional probiotics for enhanced digestive health. Both are excellent choices based on the unique needs of your baby. Always consult with a pediatrician before making a decision to ensure the best health outcomes for your infant.
Sources*
Buy Similac Alimentum RTF Online
Buy Enfamil Nutramigen Online
+ Links are reviewed periodically for accuracy; failing links might mean the product is currently unavailable.
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Nutrient comparison
| Similac Alimentum RTF | +/- | Data | +/- | Enfamil Nutramigen |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5.54 g | 0.24 | Fat | 5.30 g | |
| 10.20 g | Carbohydrate | 0.10 | 10.30 g | |
| 2.75 g | Protein | 0.05 | 2.80 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 Nutramigen |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 105.00 mg | 11.00 | Calcium | -11.00 | 94.00 mg |
| 75.00 mg | 23.00 | Phosphorus | -23.00 | 52.00 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 | -17.00 | Manganese | 17.00 | 25.00 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 | -3.00 | Sodium | 3.00 | 47.00 mg |
| 118.00 mg | 8.00 | Potassium | -8.00 | 110.00 mg |
| 80.00 mg | -6.00 | Chloride | 6.00 | 86.00 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 Nutramigen |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5.00 mg | Inositol | |||
| 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 | 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 | 0.15 | 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 mg |
| 9.00 mg | -3.00 | Vitamin C | 3.00 | 12.00 mg |
| 12.00 mg | -12.00 | Choline | 12.00 | 24.00 mg |