If you're a parent, the only thing you care about is that the baby stays healthy. It's common for first-time parents to worry that breastfeeding won't produce enough milk. Therefore, including the best baby formula in Australia on the shopping list is essential. One thing to note is baby formulas will add to breastmilk's nutritional value, not replace it.
Consult a pediatrician to buy the right formula for the baby's dietary requirements. Each baby formula is made differently, with soy or milk as the main ingredient. For a gentler procedure on little ones' stomachs, choose one made from natural ingredients and GMO-free.
10 Best Baby Formulas in Australia 2024 (0-12 months)
Table of Contents
Why It's Our Top Pick
Novalac's rice-based infant formula is our top pick for many reasons. Finding a baby formula that will last a long time is undoubtedly one of the challenges of being a parent. Novalac Allergy Rice-Based Premium Infant Formula can be a regular formula from birth to 12 months. It contains lactose, which provides the same nutrients as cow's milk. Additionally, the majority of children enjoy its exceptional flavor.
Low in lactose and allergy-safe features make Novalac Allergy Rice-Based Premium Infant Formula the best baby formula in Australia. In addition, it is within anyone's budget.
Key Ingredients
This plant-based baby formula contains protein-equivalent ingredients to ensure babies get the proper nutrition. Novalac utilized rice protein, glucose, and vegetable oils, all known to be safe for consumption, particularly by infants. It has ARA and DHA for flavor and omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. Other essential nutrients include vitamins, minerals, nucleotides, L-carnitine, choline, inositol, and taurine.
Effectiveness
No allergies exist in babies who consume Novalac's Rice-Based Premium Infant Formula. It can also provide the nutrients a baby requires and is suitable for daily feeding.
Customer Reviews
Many consumers are pleased with the baby formula's taste and nutritional value, though it is not milk-based. It contains everything a baby needs to grow without feeling sick.
Nestle made a baby formula suitable from birth to feeding infants with high-quality nutrition. Every scoop of NAN Supreme 1 contains more balanced nutrients - thanks to its high content of cow's milk.
Key Ingredients
The main ingredients are fish oil and milk, which are excellent whey protein sources. Nestle added a small number of carbohydrates and fat to increase the baby's energy. Biotin, iron, magnesium, zinc, and chloride are among the vitamins A through K in this best baby formula in Australia. It is only complete with a nucleotide that is a good match for breastfeeding nutrition.
Effectiveness
Due to its mild ingredients, NAN Supreme 1 is safe for newborns. Infants determined to have cow's milk allergy shouldn't take the formula to prevent an upset stomach. It isn't suggested for infants over six months as they require more excellent care.
Customer Reviews
Many moms claim Nestle NAN Supreme 1 Baby Formula contains the right components for newborns. They observe less stomach irritation and faster growth.
The Aptamil Gold+ Pronutra Biotik Premium Follow-On Formula is ideal for babies under 12 months of age. If you start introducing solids to your baby, this is the best option to complete its nutritional needs.
Key Ingredients
Pronutra Biotik comes from cow's milk. Vitamins and minerals that aid in faster and healthier infant growth. The follow-on formula also contains fish, soy, and Nucleotides, benefiting infants similarly to human milk. Other main ingredients are vegetable oils, antioxidants, L-carnitine, and whey protein.
Effectiveness
In addition to solid foods, this baby formula from Aptamil will produce the best results. The baby will grow better with the right proportions, up to five daily feeds.
Customer Reviews
Many parents praise the Aptamil Gold+ Pronutra Biotik Premium Follow-On Formula as delicious and well-balanced. Compared to other formulas, it also helps to reduce digestive issues and stinky green poos.
Aptamil made a sensitive baby formula from birth to 12 months, which is safe for breastfeeding.
Key Ingredients
Since Aptamil breaks down the protein component for easy digestion, the infant formula becomes ideal for sensitive stomachs. The patented synbiotic blend aids digestion, resulting in baby stools with excellent consistency for more accessible release. Aptamil used soy and cow's milk and other vitamins, minerals, and nucleotides to complete the baby formula.
Effectiveness
Aptamil Prosyneo Sensitive Baby Formula is consistent and safe for breastfeeding infants to consume. It brings comfort and a happy stomach and prevents a toothpaste-like baby stool.
Customer Reviews
One customer claims that Aptamil Prosyneo Sensitive Baby Formula helps to make the baby's stool more desirable. The consistent formula soothes the stomach, which eases digestion.
One way to make the baby formula easier to digest is goat milk. Then, look no further than Bubs Stage 2 Australian Goat Milk Follow-On Formula.
Key Ingredients
Bubs is made with fresh goat milk, a whey protein concentrate so that it won't hurt sensitive stomachs. Goat milk is the best source of probiotics, omega-3 and -6 fatty acids, and nucleotides that meet the nutritional needs of infants. On the other hand, fish oil has DHA and ARA to make it taste better and helps develop the baby's immune system.
Effectiveness
The Goat Milk Follow-On Formula contains vitamins and minerals that encourage a baby's growth. It is ideal for infants with high sensitivity as goat's milk is milder than other milk sources.
Customer Reviews
After giving babies Bubs Stage 2 Goat Milk Follow-On Formula, many parents are impressed by the non-stinky diapers. Most babies also enjoy the formula as it helps to reduce bad reflux.
Bellamy's Organic Step 1 Infant Formula is both ACO- and NASAA-certified. It is made of cow's milk and contains no preservatives, sugar, or salt.
Key Ingredients
Organically raised cows and without GMOs, Bellamy's Organic Step 1 Infant Formula is safer for babies as young as six months. To help a baby grow, it has more than 20 vitamins and immune-boosting nutrients mixed with fatty acids. Additionally, the baby formula is whey-dominated, making it mild and easier to digest for infants.
Effectiveness
Bellamy's Organic Step 1 Infant Formula can provide complete nutrition for babies aged 0 to 6 months. In addition to being safe for the stomach, it aids body development.
Customer Reviews
Bellamy's Organic Stage 1 Baby Formula is easier to digest than its non-organic counterparts, which many customers appreciate. It is a healthy alternative to breastmilk because of its natural ingredients and delicious taste.
Oli6 Stage 1 Infant Formula being 100% goat milk, guarantees no tummy issues, such as gas or bloating. Plus, it is six times richer in prebiotics than cow's milk.
Key Ingredients
Prebiotics, known to fight the harmful bacteria that cause gas in the stomach, are abundant in goat's milk. This good bacteria makes it easy to digest food and is suitable for babies with sensitive stomachs. Additionally, it contains essential vitamins and minerals for infants under six months of age. Whey casein, which expedites growth and strengthens the immune system, was also added by Oli6.
Effectiveness
Even though it may contain soy and dairy, it is hypoallergenic. Oli6 Stage 1 Goat Milk Infant Formula is a good option for preventing a gassy stomach - all thanks to its natural pre- and probiotic components.
Customer Reviews
One customer would recommend Oli6 Stage 1 Goat Milk Infant Formula to anyone because of its mild and allergen-safe ingredients. The fact that it is within the budget made it even more compelling to consider buying it.
Aptamil makes the best infant formula in Australia that treats constipation. It must be under medical supervision to ensure outcomes, such as frequent and softer baby stools. Goodbye to discomfort, and welcome to healthier digestion!
Key Ingredients
Hydrolyzed protein, a unique ingredient in its formulation, alleviates digestive issues. It is a broken-down type of protein and helps colic episodes better than other baby formulas. It has five nucleotides in proportion to the nutrient content of breastmilk and is partially soy-based. Aptamil includes biotin for skin health and vitamins and minerals to help the baby grow faster.
Effectiveness
This infant formula for constipation requires a prescription from a doctor and is not for general consumption. Thanks to hydrolyzed protein components, it can manage colic symptoms and attacks of constipation effectively.
Customer Reviews
Most infants experienced no adverse side effects because Aptamil Gold+ Colic And Constipation Baby Formula is super light in the tummy. According to one customer, the formula reduces hospital visits for digestive issues.
Aptamil is Australia's most popular baby formula and aids in weight gain from six months of age. The Essence Organic A2 Protein Milk Follow-On Formula contains ingredients making infants healthier.
Key Ingredients
It is organically certified and contains fish, soy, and cow's milk. Since these protein components are necessary for weight gain, infant formula is an excellent alternative to breastfeeding. It has a lot of carbs and fat with whey protein, casein, and A2 beta-casein. Nucleotides, omega-3 fatty acids, and other vitamins and minerals are abundant in the infant formula. It is combined with a patented synbiotic to improve digestion and prevent upset stomach.
Effectiveness
When providing a breastmilk substitute that encourages weight gain, Aptamil always satisfies. It can be consumed whole or partly, depending on the baby's nutritional needs.
Customer Reviews
Babies gain weight more quickly with Aptamil Essensis Organic A2 Protein Milk Follow-On Formula. Most customers agree with its claims, such as increased immunity and improved digestion.
Some parents favor non-dairy formulas like S-26 Gold Soy-Based Premium Infant Formula when nourishing a child. It has ingredients that are allergy-safe and good for the tummy.
Key Ingredients
The brand only uses a few ingredients but ensures babies up to 12 months old get a well-balanced diet. Its primary component is soy protein isolate, which encourages rapid body development and robust immunity. To support the baby's growth, vegetable oil and fatty acids are added to the baby's formula.
Effectiveness
S-26 Gold Soy-Based Premium Infant Formula is popular among parents due to its simple yet nutritious formula. Most people who don't like cow's or goat's milk are impressed by the fact that it comes from plants, which suits a non-dairy lifestyle.
Customer Reviews
S-26 Gold Soy-Based Premium Infant Formula impresses parents who avoid dairy products. They say babies have fewer allergy symptoms and like the taste of the infant formula.
What is a Baby Formula?
Baby formula is a specially designed milk-based or non-milk-based product that provides the necessary nutrients and energy to infants not breastfed or partially breastfed infants. Baby formula is typically made from cow's milk or soy. Still, it may also be made from other sources, such as goat's milk or hydrolyzed protein.
Infant formulas mimic the nutritional composition of breast milk as closely as possible and typically contain a balance of carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals essential for babies' healthy growth and development. Baby formulas are available in various types and varieties, including standard, organic, specialty, and formulas for specific age ranges or health conditions.
While breast milk is the recommended source of nutrition for infants, baby formula can provide a suitable alternative for infants who cannot be breastfed or require supplemental feeding. It's essential to choose the appropriate formula for your baby and follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer and your healthcare provider.
Types of Formula & Benefits
The best baby formula in Australia will depend on the baby's nutritional requirements. You should talk to your pediatrician if you have any questions or concerns. Here is a list of possible options with their benefits:
- Cow's Milk Formula
Cow's milk formula is the most popular and convenient choice for most parents. It provides the right balance of nutrients babies need to grow and develop. It is also inexpensive and readily available in most stores.
- Soy-Based Formula
Soy-based formula is ideal for children with lactose intolerance or a cow's milk protein allergy. Vegan families or those who avoid animal products would be happier picking this formula. The soy-based formula contains high-quality plant-based proteins, complex carbohydrates, and essential fatty acids.
- Hydrolyzed Protein Formula
Hydrolyzed protein formulas contain proteins that have been partially broken down into smaller molecules. These formulas are ideal for babies with food allergies, digestion issues, or malabsorption disorders. Hydrolyzed protein formulas are also recommended for premature babies or those born with low birth weight.
- Goat Milk Formula
Goat milk formula is for babies who cannot easily digest cow's milk or soy-based formula. It contains smaller fat molecules and is rich in vitamins and minerals. Moreover, it has a lower lactose content than other types of procedures.
- Organic Formula
The organic formula has high-quality natural ingredients free of pesticides, hormones, and antibiotics. These formulas are great for parents who want to minimize their baby's exposure to chemicals and additives. Organic formula is also easier to digest and less likely to cause digestive issues.
How to Prepare a Bottle of Baby Formula
Buying Guide: What to Know Before Choosing a Baby Formula
After reading the baby formula reviews in Australia, choosing one might still take a lot of work. Below is a brief guide that will assist you in selecting the right product.
Nutrient Content
Consider the nutrient content of the formula to ensure it provides adequate nutrition for your baby.
Type of Formula
Choose a formula that best suits your baby's needs - cow's milk-based, soy-based, lactose-free, or unique medical formula.
Age and Stage of Your Baby
Different formulas are best for babies of different ages, from newborns to 12-month-old babies.
Allergies or Intolerance
Choose a formula made especially for babies with food allergies or intolerances if your child has either of these conditions.
Cost
The cost can vary significantly depending on your chosen brand and formula type. Consider your budget and what formula is most affordable while meeting your baby's nutritional needs.
Brand Reputation
Consider the reputation of the formula brand, although all formulas on the market must meet specific nutrient standards.
Form of Formula
Choose between ready-to-feed, powder, and liquid concentrate formulas based on your lifestyle, convenience, and preference.
Doctor's Recommendation
Always consult your pediatrician before choosing a formula, especially if your baby has unique nutritional needs or medical conditions.
Best Baby Formula Brands in Australia
It's important to note that the best baby formula brand for your baby will depend on their needs and preferences. It's always best to consult a pediatrician or healthcare provider to determine the best formula for your baby.
Several baby formula brands are available in Australia, each with unique features and benefits. Some of the highly regarded brands include:
S-26 Gold Alula Toddler
This formula is designed for toddlers aged 1-3 years and contains essential nutrients such as iron, omega-3, and prebiotics to support growth and development. It also has a unique blend of probiotics to promote a healthy gut and immune system.
Bellamy's Organic Step 1 Infant Formula
Made from organic milk, this formula suits newborns up to 6 months old. It contains vital nutrients such as iron, zinc, and vitamins A, C, and D to support brain and eye development. It's also free from synthetic preservatives, colors, and flavors.
Karicare+ Goat Milk Infant Formula
This formula is made from 100% Australian goat milk and is gentle on sensitive tummies. It contains prebiotics and nucleotides to support healthy digestion and immune function. It also has a naturally sweet taste and is free from palm oil.
NAN Optipro HA Gold Baby Formula
This formula is specially formulated for babies with a family history of allergies. It contains hydrolyzed whey protein to reduce the risk of allergies. It is enriched with DHA, ARA, and probiotics to support brain and immune function. It's also has a pleasant taste and easy to digest.
A2 Platinum Premium Infant Formula
Made from milk from cows that only produce A2 beta-casein protein, this formula is gentle on delicate tummies. It contains vital nutrients such as iron, iodine, and omega-3 to support healthy growth and development. It also has a creamy texture and a mild taste.
Baby Formula Price Range Here in Australia
The baby formula price in Australia can vary widely depending on the product's brand, type, and size. Here is a general guide to the price range of baby formula in Australia:
Standard Cow's Milk Formulas: These formulas are typically the most affordable option, with prices ranging from $15 to $35 for a 900g tin, depending on the brand.
Organic Formulas: Organic formulas are generally more expensive than standard cow's milk formulas, ranging from $25 to $50 for a 900g tin.
Specialty Formulas: Specialty formulas such as hypoallergenic formulas or formulas for babies with reflux or colic are often more expensive, ranging from $30 to $60 for a 900g tin.
Toddler Formulas: Toddler formulas are designed for children over 12 months of age and are generally more expensive than infant formulas, ranging from $20 to $40 for a 900g tin.
Where to Buy Baby Formula in Australia?
The best baby formula in Australia is available at a variety of retailers, including:
- Supermarkets: Major supermarket chains offer a wide selection of baby formulas, including popular brands and specialty formulas.
- Pharmacies: Pharmacies also offer baby formula and a range of other baby products.
- Baby Specialty Stores: Many specialty baby stores across Australia have a wide range of baby products, including formula.
- Online Retailers: Online retailers such as Amazon, Chemist Direct, and Baby Barn Discounts offer a convenient way to purchase baby formula from the comfort of your home.
When purchasing the best infant formula in Australia, you must ensure you buy from a reputable retailer and check the expiry date before purchasing. It's also good to compare prices across different retailers and read baby formula reviews in Australia to ensure you get the best deal.
Conclusion
When looking for the best baby formula in Australia, it is crucial to consider factors like the baby's age, intolerance, type of formula, and nutrient content. We also provided a large selection of brands from which to choose. However, research is still essential before making a purchase. Picking the right baby formula will help ensure the baby's safety against possible sickness and allergies, of course, with a medical prescription.