FormulaSeek - Similac ProTotal Comfort vs Similac ProTotal Comfort RTF
Updated: 12/7/2024
Introduction
Choosing the right infant formula is a crucial decision for any parent as it plays an integral role in the early development and health of a baby. With a myriad of options available, it can be a daunting task to decide which formula best suits the needs of your infant. Among the more specialized formulas, Similac ProTotal Comfort and Similac ProTotal Comfort Ready-To-Feed (RTF) have gained popularity due to their gentle formulations designed for sensitive stomachs. This blog post provides a detailed comparison of these two formulas to assist parents in making an informed decision.
Nutritional Composition
Both Similac ProTotal Comfort and its Ready-To-Feed counterpart focus on providing nutrition that is easier to digest for infants who may have lactose sensitivity or other digestive issues. The nutritional components of these formulas are carefully crafted to provide a balance of proteins, carbohydrates, and fats along with essential vitamins and minerals.
Similac ProTotal Comfort typically contains a partially hydrolyzed protein sourced from milk, making it easier for sensitive tummies to digest. The carbohydrate source is primarily composed of a blend of lactose and other sugars. The fat source usually includes a mix of palm olein oil, safflower oil, soy oil, and coconut oil.
The Similac ProTotal Comfort RTF maintains a similar nutritional profile, being also gentle on sensitive stomachs, with the distinction of its ready-to-feed format for added convenience.
Key Differences
| Feature | Similac ProTotal Comfort | Similac ProTotal Comfort RTF |
|---|---|---|
| Protein Source | Partially hydrolyzed protein from milk | Partially hydrolyzed protein from milk |
| Carbohydrate Source | Lactose and sugars | Lactose and sugars |
| Fat Source | Palm olein, safflower, soy, coconut oils | Palm olein, safflower, soy, coconut oils |
| Prebiotics and Probiotics | Added prebiotics | Added prebiotics |
| Omega-3 (DHA/ARA) Levels | Included | Included |
| Iron and Calcium Content | Standard levels as per regulations | Standard levels as per regulations |
| Estimated Cost per Ounce | Approx. $0.63 | Approx. $0.75 |
| Organic or Non-GMO Certification | Non-GMO | Non-GMO |
Special Features and Benefits
Both formulas are designed with sensitivity in mind. The partially hydrolyzed protein in Similac ProTotal Comfort makes it suitable for infants who experience discomfort or gas from standard formulas. The addition of prebiotics aims to support gut health and mimic the composition of breast milk to encourage a healthy digestive tract. The convenient ready-to-feed option offers parents a hassle-free feeding process.
Target Audience
Infants with lactose sensitivity, digestive discomfort, or sensitivity to regular milk-based formulas may greatly benefit from these variations of Similac ProTotal Comfort. In particular, it caters well to parents seeking a solution for infants with a history of fussiness or gas issues. Additionally, the ready-to-feed option may appeal to parents who prioritize convenience in feeding routines.
Alternatives
Alternatives to Similac ProTotal Comfort
- Enfamil Gentlease
- Gerber Good Start SoothePro
- Earth’s Best Organic Gentle
- Happy Baby Organic Infant Formula
- Kirkland Signature ProCare Non-GMO Infant Formula
- Parent's Choice Sensitivity
Alternatives to Similac ProTotal Comfort RTF
- Enfamil NeuroPro Gentlease Ready-to-Use
- Gerber Good Start Gentle Ready-to-Feed
- Earth’s Best Organic Sensitivity RTF
- Enfamil Enspire Gentlease Ready-to-Feed
- Happy Baby Infant Formula Stage 1
- Parent's Choice Advantage Non-GMO Ready to Feed
Potential Drawbacks
The Similac ProTotal Comfort and its RTF variant may come with higher costs compared to conventional formulas, which might be a consideration for budget-conscious families. Also, the inclusion of palm olein oil in the fat source has been debated, though it remains a common ingredient in many formulas. Availability can sometimes vary, as with many specialized formulas.
Conclusion
In summary, both Similac ProTotal Comfort and Similac ProTotal Comfort RTF are well-suited to infants with sensitive digestive systems. They provide a balanced nutritional profile, supporting healthy growth while being gentle on tiny tummies. Parents seeking convenience may prefer the ready-to-feed format despite its slightly higher cost. It's essential to consult with a pediatrician when choosing an infant formula to ensure it aligns with your baby's specific needs. As always, closely observing your baby’s response to the formula will ultimately guide you in tailoring your approach to their nutrition.
Sources*
Buy Similac ProTotal Comfort Online
Buy Similac ProTotal Comfort RTF Online
+ Links are reviewed periodically for accuracy; failing links might mean the product is currently unavailable.
Start here
Nutrient comparison
| Similac ProTotal Comfort | +/- | Data | +/- | Similac ProTotal Comfort RTF |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5.40 g | Fat | 5.40 g | ||
| 10.70 g | Carbohydrate | 10.70 g | ||
| 2.32 g | Protein | 2.32 g | ||
| 1000.00 mg | 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 ProTotal Comfort | +/- | Minerals | +/- | Similac ProTotal Comfort RTF |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 105.00 mg | 0.00 | Calcium | 0.00 | 105.00 mg |
| 75.00 mg | 0.00 | Phosphorus | 0.00 | 75.00 mg |
| 6.00 mg | 0.00 | Magnesium | 0.00 | 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 |
| 5.00 mcg | 0.00 | Manganese | 0.00 | 5.00 mcg |
| 90.00 mcg | 0.00 | Copper | 0.00 | 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 | 0.00 | Sodium | 0.00 | 44.00 mg |
| 118.00 mg | 0.00 | Potassium | 0.00 | 118.00 mg |
| 65.00 mg | 0.00 | Chloride | 0.00 | 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 ProTotal Comfort | +/- | Vitamin | +/- | Similac ProTotal Comfort RTF |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1.50 IU | 0.00 | Vitamin E | 0.00 | 1.50 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 | 0.00 | Riboflavin (Vit B2) | 0.00 | 150.00 mcg |
| 60.00 mcg | 0.00 | Vitamin B6 | 0.00 | 60.00 mcg |
| 0.25 mcg | 0.00 | Vitamin B12 | 0.00 | 0.25 mcg |
| 1050.00 mcg | 0.00 | Niacin | 0.00 | 1050.00 mcg |
| 15.00 mcg | 0.00 | Folic Acid | 0.00 | 15.00 mcg |
| 450.00 mcg | 0.00 | Pantothenic Acid | 0.00 | 450.00 mcg |
| 4.40 mcg | 0.00 | Biotin | 0.00 | 4.40 mcg |
| 9.00 mg | 0.00 | Vitamin C | 0.00 | 9.00 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 | 0.00 | Vitamin D | 0.00 | 60.00 IU |