FormulaSeek - Similac Alimentum RTF vs Enfamil PurAmino Hypoallergenic
Updated: 12/7/2024
Introduction
Choosing the right infant formula is a critical decision for parents aiming to ensure optimal nutrition for their babies. With numerous options available, understanding the nuances between different formulas can be daunting. This post offers a detailed comparison between two popular hypoallergenic infant formulas: Similac Alimentum Ready-to-Feed (RTF) and Enfamil PurAmino Hypoallergenic. Both are designed to meet the needs of babies with specific dietary requirements, but they differ in composition, benefits, and targeted audience.
Nutritional Composition
Understanding the nutritional makeup of infant formulas is essential for parents concerned about their baby's dietary needs. Similac Alimentum RTF and Enfamil PurAmino Hypoallergenic offer distinct nutritional profiles:
Similac Alimentum RTF: This formula is primarily based on casein hydrolysate, a protein source that is extensively broken down to aid digestion in babies with protein sensitivities. Its carbohydrate profile primarily includes corn maltodextrin. The fat content is derived from a blend of high oleic safflower oil, soy oil, and medium-chain triglycerides, avoiding palm oil entirely. It includes a full spectrum of essential vitamins and minerals conducive to infant development.
Enfamil PurAmino Hypoallergenic: Enfamil PurAmino utilizes 100% free amino acids as its protein source, suitable for infants with severe allergies. The carbohydrate source is mainly corn syrup solids. The fat blend is composed of safflower oil, coconut oil, soy oil, and MCTs. Its comprehensive nutrient profile supports holistic infant growth and development.
Key Differences
| Feature | Similac Alimentum RTF | Enfamil PurAmino Hypoallergenic |
|---|---|---|
| Protein Source | Casein hydrolysate | Amino acids |
| Carbohydrate Source | Corn maltodextrin | Corn syrup solids |
| Fat Source | Safflower, Soy, MCT oil | Safflower, Coconut, Soy, MCT oil |
| Prebiotics/Probiotics | No | No |
| Omega-3 (DHA/ARA) | Yes | Yes |
| Iron Content | Iron-fortified | Iron-fortified |
| Calcium Content | Adequate | Adequate |
| Estimated Cost per Ounce | Approx. $0.50 | Approx. $1.20 |
| Organic/Non-GMO | Non-GMO | Non-GMO |
Special Features and Benefits
Both formulas cater to specific needs. Similac Alimentum RTF's hydrolyzed casein is beneficial for babies with protein sensitivity, offering rapid digestion and easy tolerance. Enfamil PurAmino, designed with 100% amino acids, is apt for infants with severe allergies and sensitivities, promoting better absorption and reducing allergy risks.
Target Audience
Similac Alimentum RTF is recommended for infants who exhibit sensitivity to protein, enabling better digestion and reduced allergic reactions. Enfamil PurAmino is tailored for babies suffering from severe milk protein allergies, needing a formula based on free amino acids to prevent allergic complications.
Similac Alimentum Alternatives
- Nutramigen with Enflora LGG - Gerber Extensive HA - Earth's Best Organic Dairy - Happy Baby Sensitive - Baby's Only Organic Sensitive DHA/ARAEnfamil PurAmino Alternatives
- Neocate Infant DHA/ARA - Nutramigen - EleCare Infant - Alfamino Infant - Puramino JuniorPotential Drawbacks
While these formulas serve their specific purposes, there are some considerations for parents:
Similac Alimentum RTF: Cost may be prohibitive for some families, and availability can be an issue in certain areas. Additionally, some may be concerned about the use of corn maltodextrin as its primary carbohydrate source.
Enfamil PurAmino: This formula is relatively expensive, and parents need to assess the price against its benefits for severe allergy management. It is also less readily available compared to other formulas.
Conclusion
Both Similac Alimentum RTF and Enfamil PurAmino are designed to cater to infants with specific dietary requirements. Similac Alimentum is best for those who need a hydrolyzed formula, while Enfamil PurAmino caters to those with extreme protein allergies. Ultimately, choosing the right formula depends on an infant's unique needs, and it is best decided in consultation with a pediatrician, ensuring the best nutritional support for your child.
Sources*
Buy Similac Alimentum RTF Online
Buy Enfamil PurAmino Hypoallergenic Online
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Nutrient comparison
| Similac Alimentum RTF | +/- | Data | +/- | Enfamil PurAmino Hypoallergenic |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5.54 g | 0.24 | Fat | 5.30 g | |
| 10.20 g | Carbohydrate | 0.40 | 10.60 g | |
| 2.75 g | Protein | 0.05 | 2.80 g | |
| 1900.00 mg | 1040.00 | Linoleic Acid | 860.00 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 PurAmino Hypoallergenic |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 105.00 mg | -11.00 | Calcium | 11.00 | 116.00 mg |
| 75.00 mg | 11.00 | Phosphorus | -11.00 | 64.00 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 PurAmino Hypoallergenic |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 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 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 |