FormulaSeek - Similac Alimentum RTF vs Similac Advance RTF
Updated: 12/7/2024
Introduction
Choosing the right infant formula is a crucial decision for parents who are unable to breastfeed or choose to supplement breastfeeding. With a multitude of options available, it can often be overwhelming to decide which formula will best suit your baby's needs. Two popular choices are Similac Alimentum RTF (Ready-To-Feed) and Similac Advance RTF. In this post, we'll explore the differences between these two formulas to help guide your decision.
Nutritional Composition
Both Similac Alimentum RTF and Similac Advance RTF are designed to support a baby’s growth and development, but they differ in their specific nutritional profiles. Similac Alimentum is formulated for babies with food allergies and sensitivities, while Similac Advance is geared toward being a comprehensive nutrition solution for most infants.
Similac Alimentum RTF: This formula is hypoallergenic and contains extensively hydrolyzed casein protein for easy digestion. Its primary carbohydrate source is corn maltodextrin, while the fat is supplied from high-oleic safflower oil, medium-chain triglycerides (MCT), and soy oil.
Similac Advance RTF: This formula includes cow’s milk protein primarily in the form of nonfat milk and whey protein concentrate. The carbohydrates are derived from lactose, and its fats come from a blend which includes palm olein oil, soy oil, coconut oil, and high oleic sunflower oil. Additionally, it contains OptiGRO blend of DHA, lutein, and vitamin E, mimicking the nutrients found in breast milk that are essential for brain and eye development.
Key Differences
| Feature | Similac Alimentum RTF | Similac Advance RTF |
|---|---|---|
| Protein Source | Extensively Hydrolyzed Casein | Nonfat Milk and Whey Protein Concentrate |
| Carbohydrate Source | Corn Maltodextrin | Lactose |
| Fat Source | Safflower Oil, MCT, Soy Oil | Palm Olein Oil, Soy Oil, Coconut Oil, High Oleic Sunflower Oil |
| Prebiotics/Probiotics | None | Contains Prebiotics |
| Omega-3 (DHA/ARA) | Medium | Higher, Includes OptiGRO Blend |
| Iron and Calcium Content | Standard Levels | Standard Levels |
| Estimated Cost per Ounce | Approximately $0.20 | Approximately $0.11 |
| Organic/Non-GMO Certification | Non-GMO | Non-GMO |
Note: Prices are estimated and may vary based on location and retailer.
Special Features and Benefits
Similac Alimentum RTF is especially beneficial for infants who suffer from food allergies and colic due to protein sensitivity. Its hydrolyzed protein allows it to be gentle on an infant's digestive system. Similac Advance RTF caters to a broader audience and contains a blend of DHA, lutein, and vitamin E, which are crucial for brain and eye development. These components make it akin to breast milk in nutritional value.
Target Audience
Similac Alimentum RTF: Perfect for babies with food allergies, colic due to protein sensitivity, or lactose intolerance. Its gentle, hypoallergenic formula can help reduce discomfort and allergic reactions.
Similac Advance RTF: Ideal for infants who don't have specific dietary sensitivities and require a well-rounded nutritional intake that mimics natural breast milk features. It's suited for babies with no preexisting allergies or sensitivities.
Alternatives
Alternatives to Similac Alimentum RTF
- Enfamil Nutramigen with Enflora LGG
- Gerber Extensive HA
- Earth's Best Organic Sensitivity
- Happy Baby Organic Sensitive Infant Formula
- Parent's Choice Hypoallergenic Infant Formula
Alternatives to Similac Advance RTF
- Enfamil NeuroPro Infant Formula
- Gerber Good Start Gentle
- Earth's Best Organic Infant Formula
- Happy Baby Organic Infant Formula
- Kirkland Signature ProCare Non-GMO Infant Formula
Potential Drawbacks
Similac Alimentum RTF: One of the main drawbacks is its price, which is higher compared to many standard formulas. Additionally, its taste may not be appealing to all infants.
Similac Advance RTF: Although it contains palm olein oil, which is somewhat controversial as it can affect calcium absorption in some infants. Additionally, infants with lactose intolerance may experience digestive issues since it's lactose-based.
Conclusion
In summary, both Similac Alimentum RTF and Similac Advance RTF have their unique benefits and are tailored to support specific infant needs. Similac Alimentum RTF is an excellent choice for babies with allergies and sensitivities, offering a gentle, hypoallergenic solution. In contrast, Similac Advance RTF is suitable for most healthy infants, providing a balanced diet that mimics breast milk. Always consult with a pediatrician to determine the best choice for your child's individual nutritional needs and sensitivities.
Sources*
Buy Similac Alimentum RTF Online
Buy Similac Advance RTF Online
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Nutrient comparison
| Similac Alimentum RTF | +/- | Data | +/- | Similac Advance RTF |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5.54 g | 0.14 | Fat | 5.40 g | |
| 10.20 g | Carbohydrate | 1.00 | 11.20 g | |
| 2.75 g | 0.68 | Protein | 2.07 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 | +/- | Similac Advance RTF |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 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 Advance RTF |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 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 |