FormulaSeek - Similac ProTotal Comfort vs Earth's Best Dairy Infant Formula
Updated: 12/7/2024
Introduction
Choosing the right infant formula is a critical decision for many parents. Ensuring your baby receives the necessary nutrients for healthy growth and development is paramount, especially when breastfeeding may not be an option or requires supplementation. Two popular infant formulas in the market are Similac ProTotal Comfort and Earth's Best Dairy Infant Formula. Each has its own set of nutritional benefits aimed at meeting the diverse needs of infants. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the specifics of these two formulas to help you make an informed choice.
Nutritional Composition
The nutritional composition of infant formulas can vary significantly, affecting how well they meet your baby's needs. Similac ProTotal Comfort primarily contains broken-down (hydrolyzed) protein, making it easier to digest for some infants. It uses a blend of carbohydrates, including maltodextrin, and lipids from sources such as high oleic safflower oil. Earth's Best Dairy Infant Formula, on the other hand, emphasizes organic ingredients, using lactose as its carbohydrate source and a mix of organic oils, including palm and soy oils.
Key Differences
| Feature | Similac ProTotal Comfort | Earth's Best Dairy Infant Formula |
|---|---|---|
| Protein Source | Partially Hydrolyzed Whey Protein | Non-Hydrolyzed Dairy Protein |
| Carbohydrate Source | Maltodextrin | Lactose |
| Fat Source | High Oleic Safflower Oil, Soy Oil | Organic Palm Oil, Soy Oil |
| Prebiotics and Probiotics | 2’-FL HMO Prebiotic | None |
| Omega-3 (DHA/ARA) Levels | Included | Included |
| Iron and Calcium Content | Meets FDA standards | Meets FDA standards |
| Estimated Cost per Ounce | $0.99 (estimated) | $1.10 (estimated) |
| Organic or Non-GMO Certification | Non-GMO | Organic |
Special Features and Benefits
Similac ProTotal Comfort is specially designed for infants with sensitive tummies. The hydrolyzed whey protein is easier on the digestive system, and the inclusion of 2’-FL HMO prebiotics helps promote gut health. Earth's Best Dairy Infant Formula stands out for its organic certification, catering to parents who prefer organic feeding options. Both include essential omega-3 fatty acids (DHA and ARA), important for brain and eye development.
Target Audience
Similac ProTotal Comfort is ideal for babies with lactose sensitivity or those who experience difficulty digesting whole proteins. It's a good choice for parents seeking a formula that caters to digestive comfort. Earth's Best Dairy Infant Formula is preferred by those who prioritize organic nutrition and have babies with standard dietary needs without specific digestive concerns.
Alternatives
Alternatives to Similac ProTotal Comfort
1. Enfamil Gentlease
2. Gerber Good Start Soothe
3. Enfamil Reguline
4. Earth's Best Sensitive Formula
5. Parent's Choice Tender® Infant Formula
Alternatives to Earth's Best Dairy Infant Formula
1. Happy Baby Organic Infant Formula
2. Plum Organics Grow Well Organic Infant Formula
3. Baby's Only Organic Dairy Formula
4. Honest Co. Organic Premium Infant Formula
5. Earth's Best Sensitivity Organic Infant Formula
Potential Drawbacks
Similac ProTotal Comfort may be slightly more expensive, which could be a consideration for budget-conscious families. Some parents may also prefer to avoid corn-based ingredients like maltodextrin. Earth's Best Dairy Infant Formula, while organic, contains palm oil, which has been a topic of controversy regarding its digestibility and environmental impact. Additionally, availability might vary, with some formulas being harder to find in stores.
Conclusion
In summary, both Similac ProTotal Comfort and Earth's Best Dairy Infant Formula offer unique benefits tailored to different needs. Similac ProTotal Comfort is noteworthy for its ease on sensitive stomachs, while Earth's Best emphasizes organic, wholesome nutrition. Always consult with a pediatrician when choosing an infant formula, as they can provide guidance based on your baby's specific nutritional requirements and health condition. Remember, the best formula is one that keeps your baby healthy, happy, and thriving.
Sources*
Buy Similac ProTotal Comfort Online
Buy Earth's Best Dairy 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 ProTotal Comfort | +/- | Data | +/- | Earth's Best Dairy Infant Formula |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5.40 g | 0.10 | Fat | 5.30 g | |
| 10.70 g | 0.10 | Carbohydrate | 10.60 g | |
| 2.32 g | 0.12 | Protein | 2.20 g | |
| 1000.00 mg | 250.00 | Linoleic Acid | 750.00 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 ProTotal Comfort | +/- | Minerals | +/- | Earth's Best Dairy Infant Formula |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 105.00 mg | 27.00 | Calcium | -27.00 | 78.00 mg |
| 75.00 mg | 32.00 | Phosphorus | -32.00 | 43.00 mg |
| 6.00 mg | -2.00 | Magnesium | 2.00 | 8.00 mg |
| 1.80 mg | 0.00 | Iron | 0.00 | 1.80 mg |
| 0.75 mg | 0.00 | Zinc | 0.00 | 0.75 mg |
| 5.00 mcg | -10.00 | Manganese | 10.00 | 15.00 mcg |
| 90.00 mcg | 19.00 | Copper | -19.00 | 71.00 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 | 17.00 | Sodium | -17.00 | 27.00 mg |
| 118.00 mg | 8.00 | Potassium | -8.00 | 110.00 mg |
| 65.00 mg | -3.00 | Chloride | 3.00 | 68.00 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 ProTotal Comfort | +/- | Vitamin | +/- | Earth's Best Dairy Infant Formula |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1.50 IU | -0.50 | Vitamin E | 0.50 | 2.00 IU |
| 8.00 mcg | 0.00 | Vitamin K | 0.00 | 8.00 mcg |
| 100.00 mcg | 0.00 | Thiamin (Vit B1) | 0.00 | 100.00 mcg |
| 150.00 mcg | -10.00 | Riboflavin (Vit B2) | 10.00 | 160.00 mcg |
| 60.00 mcg | -3.00 | Vitamin B6 | 3.00 | 63.00 mcg |
| 0.25 mcg | -0.05 | Vitamin B12 | 0.05 | 0.30 mcg |
| 1050.00 mcg | -50.00 | Niacin | 50.00 | 1100.00 mcg |
| 15.00 mcg | -1.00 | Folic Acid | 1.00 | 16.00 mcg |
| 450.00 mcg | -50.00 | Pantothenic Acid | 50.00 | 500.00 mcg |
| 4.40 mcg | -0.20 | Biotin | 0.20 | 4.60 mcg |
| 9.00 mg | -3.00 | Vitamin C | 3.00 | 12.00 mg |
| 24.00 mg | 8.00 | Choline | -8.00 | 16.00 mg |
| 24.00 mg | 18.00 | Inositol | -18.00 | 6.00 mg |
| 300.00 IU | 0.00 | Vitamin A | 0.00 | 300.00 IU |
| 60.00 IU | 0.00 | Vitamin D | 0.00 | 60.00 IU |