FormulaSeek - Similac Alimentum RTF vs Enfamil Sensitive Infant Formula
Updated: 12/7/2024
Introduction
Choosing the right infant formula is crucial for a baby's health and development. With numerous options on the market, it can be daunting for parents to decide which product best meets their baby's needs. In this post, we will delve into a comparison of two popular infant formulas: Similac Alimentum Ready-to-Feed (RTF) and Enfamil Sensitive Infant Formula. We will assess their nutritional compositions, key differences, special features, target audiences, alternatives, and potential drawbacks to help you make an informed decision.
Nutritional Composition
Similac Alimentum RTF is designed for infants with food allergies and colic due to protein sensitivity. It contains extensively hydrolyzed casein protein, which is easy to digest. Enfamil Sensitive is targeted towards infants with lactose sensitivity and contains partially hydrolyzed proteins. Both formulas offer a variety of vitamins and minerals essential for infant growth, but their specific nutritional compositions differ significantly.
Key Differences
| Feature | Similac Alimentum RTF | Enfamil Sensitive |
|---|---|---|
| Protein Source | Extensively hydrolyzed casein | Partially hydrolyzed milk protein |
| Carbohydrate Source | Corn Maltodextrin | Partially broken-down lactose |
| Fat Source | Safflower oil, MCT oil | Palm olein, soybean oil, coconut oil |
| Prebiotics and Probiotics | None | None |
| Omega-3 (DHA/ARA) Levels | Included | Included |
| Iron Content | 1.9 mg per 100 kcal | 1.9 mg per 100 kcal |
| Calcium Content | 78 mg per 100 kcal | 73 mg per 100 kcal |
| Estimated Cost per Ounce | Approximately $0.50 | Approximately $0.16 |
| Organic or Non-GMO Certification | Non-GMO | Non-GMO |
Special Features and Benefits
Similac Alimentum RTF is specifically formulated for babies who have food allergies or who experience colic due to protein sensitivity. Its hydrolyzed protein is easier for sensitive digestive systems to handle. Enfamil Sensitive is designed for infants with lactose sensitivity and provides a balance of nutrients that support brain development and digestion.
Target Audience
Similac Alimentum RTF is suitable for babies with severe food allergies or protein sensitivities. It is also used for infants with colic symptoms resulting from protein intolerance. Enfamil Sensitive is ideal for babies with mild lactose sensitivity but without a full lactose intolerance. Parents of infants experiencing mild digestive discomfort due to lactose may find this formula beneficial.
Alternatives
Similac Alimentum RTF Alternatives
- Nutramigen with Enflora LGG
- Gerber Extensive HA
- EleCare Infant Formula
- Neocate Infant DHA/ARA
- PurAmino Hypoallergenic Formula
Enfamil Sensitive Alternatives
- Similac Pro-Total Comfort
- Gerber Good Start Soothe
- Earth's Best Organic Sensitivity Infant Formula
- Parent's Choice Sensitivity
- Up & Up Sensitive Infant Formula
Potential Drawbacks
Similac Alimentum RTF can be costly compared to other formulas, which may concern budget-conscious parents. Its availability might also vary, making it sometimes difficult to find. Enfamil Sensitive may not be suitable for infants with severe lactose intolerance or milk protein allergies. Additionally, some parents express concerns regarding the use of palm olein oil in infant formulas.
Conclusion
Both Similac Alimentum RTF and Enfamil Sensitive Infant Formula cater to specific dietary needs of infants. Similac Alimentum is an excellent choice for babies with severe protein sensitivities or food allergies, while Enfamil Sensitive benefits those with mild digestive discomfort due to lactose. As always, it's essential to consult with a pediatrician when choosing an infant formula to ensure it meets your baby's specific nutritional needs. Remember, the estimated prices are subject to change, and it’s advisable to check the latest prices in your local stores or online retailers.
Sources*
Buy Similac Alimentum RTF Online
Buy Enfamil Sensitive Infant Formula 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 Sensitive Infant Formula |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5.54 g | 0.24 | Fat | 5.30 g | |
| 10.20 g | Carbohydrate | 0.70 | 10.90 g | |
| 2.75 g | 0.55 | Protein | 2.20 g | |
| 1900.00 mg | 1900.00 | Linoleic Acid | 0 |
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 Sensitive Infant Formula |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 105.00 mg | 17.00 | Calcium | -17.00 | 88.00 mg |
| 75.00 mg | 16.00 | Phosphorus | -16.00 | 59.00 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 | 11.00 | Sodium | -11.00 | 33.00 mg |
| 118.00 mg | 8.00 | Potassium | -8.00 | 110.00 mg |
| 80.00 mg | 13.00 | Chloride | -13.00 | 67.00 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 Sensitive Infant Formula |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 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 mcg |