FormulaSeek - Similac Alimentum RTF vs Similac 360 Total Care
Updated: 12/7/2024
Introduction
Choosing the right infant formula is crucial for the health and development of your baby. With a myriad of options available on the market, it's essential to understand the nutritional value and suitability of each brand. Two popular choices from the Similac brand are Similac 360 Total Care and Similac Alimentum RTF. Each one is designed to meet different nutritional needs and sensitivities in infants. This blog post will offer a detailed comparison of these two formulas to help parents make an informed decision.
Nutritional Composition
The nutritional content of infant formula is the primary concern for parents. Similac 360 Total Care is designed to provide complete nutrition, closely following the model of breast milk. On the other hand, Similac Alimentum RTF is a hypoallergenic formula designed for infants with food allergies, lactose intolerance, or colic due to protein sensitivity.
Similac 360 Total Care features a balanced proportion of proteins, carbohydrates, and fats to support overall growth. Its protein is primarily a combination of whey and casein, with lactose as the main carbohydrate source. The fat content is derived from a blend of oils, including palm olein, soy, and coconut oils. Moreover, it is fortified with essential vitamins and minerals necessary for infant development.
Similac Alimentum RTF contains extensively hydrolyzed protein, which means the proteins are broken down into smaller segments to reduce the likelihood of allergic reactions. It uses corn maltodextrin and sugar as carbohydrate sources and a different blend of oils, including safflower oil, to avoid potential allergens. Similar to Similac 360 Total Care, it also contains a comprehensive array of vitamins and minerals.
Key Differences
| Feature | Similac 360 Total Care | Similac Alimentum RTF |
|---|---|---|
| Protein Source | Whey-to-casein ratio varies | Extensively hydrolyzed protein |
| Carbohydrate Source | Lactose | Corn maltodextrin, sugar |
| Fat Source | Palm olein, soy, coconut oils | Safflower oil |
| Prebiotics and Probiotics | Contains prebiotics | Contains prebiotic fiber |
| Omega-3 (DHA/ARA) Levels | Present | Present |
| Iron and Calcium Content | Standard levels for infant formulas | Standard levels for hypoallergenic formulas |
| Estimated Cost per Ounce | Approx. $0.15/ounce | Approx. $0.30/ounce |
| Organic or Non-GMO Certification | Non-GMO | Non-GMO |
Special Features and Benefits
Similac 360 Total Care is known for its complete nutritional profile, making it an excellent choice for general use. It includes prebiotics, which promote gut health and mimic the immune-supporting properties of breast milk. Additionally, it features a composition aimed at supporting brain and eye development with ingredients such as Omega-3 DHA.
Similac Alimentum RTF is designed for sensitive tummies. Its hydrolyzed protein and lack of lactose make it suitable for babies with severe allergies or colic. The ready-to-feed format adds convenience, particularly for parents managing multiple feedings.
Target Audience
Similac 360 Total Care is ideally suited for infants with no specific dietary restrictions or allergies, offering complete nutrition that mirrors that of breast milk. In contrast, Similac Alimentum RTF is tailored for babies dealing with allergies, colic, or lactose sensitivity, thanks to its specialized formulation.
Alternatives
For Similac 360 Total Care
- Enfamil NeuroPro Infant Formula
- Gerber Good Start Gentle
- Earth’s Best Organic Dairy Infant Formula
- Happy Baby Organic Infant Formula
- Kirkland Signature ProCare Non-GMO Infant Formula
For Similac Alimentum RTF
- Enfamil Nutramigen
- Gerber Extensive HA
- Hipp HA Combiotik
- Earth’s Best Sensitivity Infant Formula
- Neocate Syneo Infant Formula
Potential Drawbacks
Similac 360 Total Care, while nutritionally complete, may be considered more costly over long-term use, and some parents prefer organic-certified options. Palm oil used in the fat blend is sometimes criticized for its environmental impact.
Similac Alimentum RTF, although highly effective for sensitive infants, is one of the more expensive options due to its specialized formulation and convenience of ready-to-feed. Availability can be an issue, particularly during shortages. Additionally, the taste might be off-putting to some infants due to the hydrolyzed protein.
Conclusion
In summary, choosing between Similac 360 Total Care and Similac Alimentum RTF depends on your baby’s nutritional needs and sensitivities. Similac 360 Total Care is an excellent choice for general nutrition while offering benefits similar to breast milk. In contrast, Similac Alimentum RTF is specifically designed for babies with severe allergies or lactose intolerance. Always consult with a pediatrician when making formula choices to ensure your baby's health needs are properly addressed.
Sources*
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Nutrient comparison
| Similac Alimentum RTF | +/- | Data | +/- | Similac 360 Total Care |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5.54 g | Fat | 0.06 | 5.60 g | |
| 10.20 g | Carbohydrate | 0.30 | 10.50 g | |
| 2.75 g | 0.68 | Protein | 2.07 g | |
| 1900.00 mg | 900.00 | Linoleic Acid | 1000.00 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 | +/- | Similac 360 Total Care |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 105.00 mg | 27.00 | Calcium | -27.00 | 78.00 mg |
| 75.00 mg | 33.00 | Phosphorus | -33.00 | 42.00 mg |
| 7.50 mg | 1.50 | Magnesium | -1.50 | 6.00 mg |
| 1.80 mg | 0.00 | Iron | 0.00 | 1.80 mg |
| 0.75 mg | 0.00 | Zinc | 0.00 | 0.75 mg |
| 8.00 mcg | 3.00 | Manganese | -3.00 | 5.00 mcg |
| 75.00 mcg | -15.00 | Copper | 15.00 | 90.00 mcg |
| 15.00 mcg | 0.00 | Iodine | 0.00 | 15.00 mcg |
| 2.00 mcg | 0.00 | Selenium | 0.00 | 2.00 mcg |
| 44.00 mg | 20.00 | Sodium | -20.00 | 24.00 mg |
| 118.00 mg | 13.00 | Potassium | -13.00 | 105.00 mg |
| 80.00 mg | 15.00 | Chloride | -15.00 | 65.00 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 | +/- | Similac 360 Total Care |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 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 | 1.50 | Vitamin E | -1.50 | 1.50 IU |
| 15.00 mcg | 7.00 | Vitamin K | -7.00 | 8.00 mcg |
| 60.00 mcg | -40.00 | Thiamin (Vit B1) | 40.00 | 100.00 mcg |
| 90.00 mcg | -60.00 | Riboflavin (Vit B2) | 60.00 | 150.00 mcg |
| 60.00 mcg | 0.00 | Vitamin B6 | 0.00 | 60.00 mcg |
| 0.45 mcg | 0.20 | Vitamin B12 | -0.20 | 0.25 mcg |
| 1350.00 mcg | 300.00 | Niacin | -300.00 | 1050.00 mcg |
| 15.00 mcg | 0.00 | Folic Acid | 0.00 | 15.00 mcg |
| 750.00 mcg | 300.00 | Pantothenic Acid | -300.00 | 450.00 mcg |
| 4.50 mcg | 0.10 | Biotin | -0.10 | 4.40 mcg |
| 9.00 mg | 0.00 | Vitamin C | 0.00 | 9.00 mg |
| 12.00 mg | -12.00 | Choline | 12.00 | 24.00 mg |
| 5.00 mg | -19.00 | Inositol | 19.00 | 24.00 mg |