Every new parent wants to give their baby the nutrition they need. With all of the different formulas on the market, it can be difficult to decide which is best for your child. “Choosing a formula is a big decision for families,” says Natasha Burgert, M.D., F.A.A.P., Philips Avent’s pediatrician. The good news is that all formulas must meet federal nutrient requirements, and infant formula manufacturers must notify the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) prior to marketing a new formula.
But as concerns grow regarding food sources, chemicals and pesticides, choosing organic is an option for parents who are looking to minimize their baby’s exposure to certain preservatives and additives. Organic baby formulas go a step further than conventional ones as they have to meet additional federal guidelines to get the USDA Organic Stamp, but Dr. Burgert says there may not be a huge nutritional difference between the two.
Regardless of whether you are purchasing organic or non-organic formula, pay attention to the ingredients in whichever option you choose. Some formulas utilize glucose and corn syrup for their carbohydrates as opposed to lactose which is the main carbohydrate source in breast milk. Choosing a formula that is as close to breastmilk as possible or modeled after breastmilk is key, which is why we did the work for you and rounded up the best organic baby formula brands available in the United States. Here are the best organic baby formula brands, according to experts and parents.