FormulaSeek - Similac ProTotal Comfort vs Enfamil Enspire


Updated: 12/7/2024


Introduction

Choosing the right infant formula is a crucial decision for parents who are unable to breastfeed or who choose formula feeding for their infants. The right formula not only provides essential nutrients for growth and development but also supports overall health and wellbeing. Two popular options in the infant formula market are Similac ProTotal Comfort and Enfamil Enspire. In this blog post, we'll explore the differences and benefits of these two options to help parents make an informed decision.

Nutritional Composition

Similac ProTotal Comfort and Enfamil Enspire are both designed to provide essential nutrients that mimic those found in breast milk. Similac ProTotal Comfort is formulated with easy-to-digest proteins and is aimed at reducing fussiness and gas. Enfamil Enspire is one of the few formulas to contain lactoferrin and MFGM (Milk Fat Globule Membrane), which are components naturally found in breast milk. Let's delve deeper into each formula's nutritional profile.

Key Differences

Feature Similac ProTotal Comfort Enfamil Enspire
Protein Source Partially Hydrolyzed Whey Protein Non-hydrolyzed Milk Protein
Carbohydrate Source Maltodextrin, Lactose Lactose
Fat Source Safflower Oil, Palm Olein Non-palm based (includes safflower oil)
Prebiotics and Probiotics 2'-FL HMO (Human Milk Oligosaccharide) None
Omega-3 (DHA/ARA) Levels Included Included
Iron and Calcium Content 9 mg Iron, 78 mg Calcium per pint 12 mg Iron, 85 mg Calcium per pint
Estimated Cost per Ounce Approximately $0.99 Approximately $1.39
Organic or Non-GMO Certification Non-GMO Non-GMO

Note: Prices are estimates and may vary based on location and retailer.

Special Features and Benefits

Similac ProTotal Comfort is particularly known for its partially hydrolyzed protein, which is easier on sensitive stomachs and helps reduce issues like gas and fussiness. It also includes 2'-FL HMO, a prebiotic linked to promoting a healthy gut microbiome.

Enfamil Enspire, on the other hand, features unique ingredients like lactoferrin and MFGM. These components are believed to support immune health and promote brain development, closely resembling the properties of breast milk.

Target Audience

Similac ProTotal Comfort is ideal for infants who experience lactose sensitivity or have digestive issues like gas. It’s especially tailored for infants who need easily digestible formulas.

Enfamil Enspire suits families looking for a formula close to breastmilk in terms of immune and cognitive development components. It's also suitable for babies who do not have lactose intolerance.

Alternatives

Similac ProTotal Comfort Alternatives

  • Gerber Good Start Gentle
  • Earth's Best Organic Sensitivity
  • Enfamil Gentlease
  • Parent's Choice Gentle
  • Kirkland Signature ProCare

Enfamil Enspire Alternatives

  • Similac Pro-Advance
  • Gerber Good Start SoothePro
  • Parent's Choice Infant Formula
  • Kirkland Signature ProCare Non-GMO
  • Happy Baby Organic Infant Formula

Potential Drawbacks

Similac ProTotal Comfort can be more expensive compared to other standard formulas, and some parents may find that their baby does not take well to the taste or texture.

Enfamil Enspire also carries a high price tag and may not be suitable for infants with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies due to its milk protein base.

Conclusion

Both Similac ProTotal Comfort and Enfamil Enspire offer unique benefits tailored to specific needs. Similac ProTotal Comfort is excellent for sensitive stomachs, while Enfamil Enspire stands out for its breast milk-like properties. Always consult with a pediatrician to determine which formula best suits your baby's needs, taking into account any dietary restrictions or health concerns before making a choice.

Sources*

Buy Similac ProTotal Comfort Online

Buy Enfamil Enspire 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 +/- Enfamil Enspire
5.40 g 0.10 Fat 5.30 g
10.70 g Carbohydrate 0.40 11.10 g
2.32 g 0.22 Protein 2.10 g
1000.00 mg 220.00 Linoleic Acid 780.00 mg

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 +/- Enfamil Enspire
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 -0.25 Zinc 0.25 1.00 mg
5.00 mcg -10.00 Manganese 10.00 15.00 mcg
90.00 mcg 15.00 Copper -15.00 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 17.00 Sodium -17.00 27.00 mg
118.00 mg 10.00 Potassium -10.00 108.00 mg
65.00 mg 2.00 Chloride -2.00 63.00 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 +/- Enfamil Enspire
1.50 IU -0.50 Vitamin E 0.50 2.00 IU
8.00 mcg -1.00 Vitamin K 1.00 9.00 mcg
100.00 mcg 20.00 Thiamin (Vit B1) -20.00 80.00 mcg
150.00 mcg 10.00 Riboflavin (Vit B2) -10.00 140.00 mcg
60.00 mcg 0.00 Vitamin B6 0.00 60.00 mcg
0.25 mcg -0.05 Vitamin B12 0.05 0.30 mcg
1050.00 mcg 50.00 Niacin -50.00 1000.00 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 1.40 Biotin -1.40 3.00 mcg
9.00 mg -3.00 Vitamin C 3.00 12.00 mg
24.00 mg 0.00 Choline 0.00 24.00 mg
24.00 mg 0.00 Inositol 0.00 24.00 mg
300.00 IU 0.00 Vitamin A 0.00 300.00 IU
60.00 IU -10.00 Vitamin D 10.00 70.00 IU