Choosing an Infant Formula

Choosing an infant formula

No brand of infant formula is best. You should pick an infant formula that is made especially for babies. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates commercial infant formulas. Commercial infant formulas come in liquid and powdered forms. Commercial powdered infant formulas are not guaranteed to be sterile. However, FDA regularly inspects commercial infant formulas and the manufacturing facilities where they are made. This is to make sure they meet minimum nutritional and safety requirements.

Iron-fortified infant formulas are recommended. "Fortified" means vitamins and minerals have been added. Most commercial infant formulas sold in the United States contain iron. Commercial infant formulas come in liquid and powdered forms.

When choosing an infant formula:

• Make sure it is not expired.
• Make sure the container is sealed and in good condition.
• Do not use formula if the container has:
  • Leaks.
  • Puffy ends.
  • Rust spots.
• Make sure it is not labeled for toddlers.

Talk with your child's doctor or nurse if you:

• Have questions about choosing an infant formula for your baby.
• Want to switch infant formula brands or types.

Homemade infant formula

FDA and the American Academy of Pediatrics warn against making homemade infant formula. Using homemade infant formula can lead to serious health problems for your baby.

Your baby's nutritional needs are very specific, especially in the first year of life. Homemade infant formulas may contain too little or too much of certain components—including vitamins and minerals, such as iron.

Homemade infant formula may also have an increased risk of contamination. This could lead to your baby getting sick or getting an infection.

Imported infant formulas

Infant formulas sold in other countries may be promoted as "natural" or "organic." However, there is no scientific evidence that these formulas are better for babies than commercial formulas sold in the United States.

All infant formulas legally sold in the United States—whether U.S.-made or imported from other countries—must be reviewed by FDA. FDA also makes sure that the water used to make formulas meets safety standards set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

The American Academy of Pediatrics warns against using illegally imported formulas, such as products ordered online from third-party distributors. FDA may not have reviewed these products. Illegally imported formulas also may not have been shipped and stored properly.

Toddler milk, drinks, or formulas

Toddler milk, drinks, or formulas are not needed to meet the nutritional needs of younger children. They typically have added sugars. Babies younger than 12 months should be fed infant formulas specifically designed to meet their nutritional needs. They should not be fed toddler milks, drinks, or formulas labeled for toddlers.

At 12 months, your child can be introduced to plain, pasteurized whole cow's milk or fortified, unsweetened soy beverages.