Best Organic Baby Formula Of 2019: Expert Review And Buying Guide

As a mother, you eat even the vegetables you hate so that your child can get the nutrition he needs. Furthermore, you avoid the foods that you have heard has even the slightest negative effect on a baby. You take the world on your shoulders to keep your baby safe.

But, you are only human and you cannot always breastfeed your child. In fact, you are on the lucky boat if you do breastfeed your child even occasionally because many mothers cannot. This is why mothers look for formula milk to give their child the fuel they need to not stay an infant anymore.

It may be your work calling you or it may just be your body screaming for some rest, the reasons behind feeding babies formula milk are legit and real. However, you do not even trust the fresh food you eat, how can you trust formula milk so easily? The truth is you cannot.

But, most formula-fed babies do just fine and you can reduce all health hazards by carefully choosing the best organic baby formula. In fact, even organic formula has ingredients that are of low quality or harmful. This is why you need to be very careful when choosing the best organic infant formula.

 

1. Baby’s Only Organic Non-GMO LactoRelief.

• Rated “Top In Class” for Purity and Nutritional Superiority by CleanLabelProject.org after testing over 500 different organic baby formulas and baby foods
• Non-GMO; suitable for lactose sensitivity.
• Organic Reduced-Lactose Dairy, No Corn Syrup, No Palm Oil.
• Non-hexane-processed DHA in phospholipids fatty acids; more bioavailable formula to help the brain and eye development.

Does your baby have difficulty digesting milk products that have lactose? Then, the best formula option for your would be the Baby’s Only Organic Non-GMO LactoRelief. The name does the talking for you, doesn’t it? Say goodbye to lactose-stimulated gas, reflux and bloated stomach using this formula.

Your baby actually needs lactose but has a hard time digesting the complex ones in milk. So, this formula contains lactose but has reduced and broken it down so that babies find it easier to digest. Fortunately, it works.

Furthermore, your baby needs fatty acids to develop as well and DHA and ARA are the sources of it in formulas. The main concern regarding DHA and ARA was how it was manufactured and This formula uses DHA and ARA manufactured without hexane but from egg whites. So, you can imagine how safe yet efficient it will be.

Other than that, it does not contain corn syrup or palm oil but does contain organic brown rice maltodextrin. So, most babies accept it for the sweet taste. However, you have to be careful about where you buy this formula from as there have been reports of counterfeit ones.

One difficulty you may face is that the price does not stay consistent. Apart from that, it contains folic acid instead of natural folate which many parents do not prefer. Your baby might experience constipation as well but that depends more on your baby’s nature.

What We Liked
Great for babies with lactose intolerance. Probably the safest organic formula available. Tastes great with organic brown rice maltodextrin. Safe DHA and ARA used to make it. Provides ample nutrition to babies. No corn syrup or palm oil.
What We Didn’t Like
The price fluctuates a lot. May cause constipation. Contains folic acid. May differ in quality if bought differently.

2. Plum Organics Infant Formula with Iron.

• Modeled after breast milk.
• Suitable for baby’s tummy.
• Organic lactose as the sole source of carbohydrates.
• No genetically engineered ingredients.
• DHA & ARA – help to support brain and eye development.

When you want to make something good, you have to start from the very root. And, that is what Plum Organics does. Apparently, it is not only the factory where the brand starts the process of being organic, but it also starts from the farm.

In fact, the cows that they breed are fed organic food which is grown on land that uses no insecticides or pesticides. So, you can guess that poisonous chemicals are out of the way. Furthermore, it is a formula that most babies accept.

The organic lactose in it sweetens it much like breast milk but does not make it the tastiest. Other than that, it contains many useful components like cow’s milk, organic plant-based oils, whey protein, and vitamins and minerals. Iron deficiency can highly hamper your child’s growth so this formula makes sure your child gets enough of it.

However, it also contains DHA and ARA. While many consider these two essential for brain and eye development, the process it is made in is what concerns people. Plum did not make the manufacturing process hexane-free so that is a great concern.

While the formula is made with no genetically modified components, it tends to cause gas in babies. Apart from that, some of the batches turn out to be foamy and lumpy. On the other hand, it may occasionally upset the baby’s stomach.

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What We Liked

Begins being organic from the very beginning. Includes all the useful nutrients. Tasty enough for babies to accept it. Uses lactose instead of brown rice sugar or corn syrup to sweeten it. Does not use genetically modified components. Easy to prepare. Certified by USDA.

What We Didn’t Like

Contains DHA and ARA manufactured using hexane. Causes gas in tummy. Maybe lump or foamy. Quality varies.

3.Pure Bliss by Similac Infant Formula.

 

• WITH PROBIOTICS: Pure Bliss by Similac is thoughtfully crafted nutrition with probiotics for digestive health
• NO COMPROMISE: Has no artificial growth hormones,* no antibiotics, and it’s non-GMO. Also, with NO PALM OLEIN OIL, to help support calcium absorption
• KEY NUTRIENTS FOR BRAIN & EYE DEVELOPMENT: Pure Bliss by Similac has DHA and ARA, key nutrients to support brain & eye development

Want a formula that actually smells, tastes and looks like milk? Then, this Pure Bliss formula may be what you are looking for. Most customers love this formula because of how natural it looks, smells and tastes. In fact, it is white in color and not foamy at all.

However, people are not sure if this is the most organic. Firstly, it does contain soy and soy is something that can cause trouble. Apart from that, it also has DHA and ARA and does not mention how these two are manufactured.

But, yes, the milk is from grass-fed cows and the formula is high in useful nutrients that will give your baby what he needs. However, it is not unusual for this formula to cause gas either. It caused rashes on a few babies as well.

Babies accept this formula easily but you have to check if it suits them. Apart from that, this formula has a high price.

What We Liked

Cow’s milk included. Looks smells and tastes natural like actual milk. Is not foamy and causes fewer spit ups. Filled with useful ingredients. Babies accept it easily.

What We Didn’t Like

May cause gas. A bit expensive. Not completely organic. Contains soy, DHA and ARA.

4. Happy Baby Organic Stage 1 Infant Formula Milk –Powder with Iron.

• MODELED AFTER BREAST MILK & made with carefully sourced premium ingredients, this formula is made with organic lactose the principal carbohydrate found in breast milk. This formula provides key vitamins and minerals that are found naturally in breast milk.
• WITH 4X MORE PREBIOTICS than most another organic infant formula, This formula delivers 2 prebiotics, GOS & FOS, fibers that mimic the function of prebiotics found naturally in breast milk, which promotes healthy gut bacteria in infants. No corn syrup solids.

Is your baby lactose intolerant but you still want her to not be intolerant to it? You can try this formula out to see if it can reduce the lactose intolerance. Apparently, this formula consists most of the components breastmilk has to offer.

Although it cannot completely mimic breastmilk it does a good job. It also contains DHA and ARA that are derived from algae so is safe to use. However, it also contains palm oil and soy which are usually a big no for babies.

Most babies like the taste of this formula but it may seem too foamy as well. In fact, it does cause gas problems and more spit ups in some babies. Apparently, it is quite expensive too.

However, it seemed to suit most babies just fine by causing no allergic reactions or rashes. So, if it does suit you, baby, there is no reason to avoid it as it contains all the necessary components.

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What We Liked

Mimics breastmilk. Contains all the essential nutrients. Harmless DHA and ARA derived from algae. Most babies accept it easily. May reduce lactose intolerance. Uses no GMO ingredients.

What We Didn’t Like

May cause spit ups, constipation, and gas. A bit foamy in texture. Quite pricy. Contains soy, palm oil, and folic acid.

5. Plum Organics Grow Well Organic Infant Formula.

• The formula has a 30: 70 whey to casein ratio. Some the babies do better on different ratios, especially those with specific stomach problems. If you suspect your baby would do better on another ratio, by all means, discuss it with your pediatrician.
• No corn syrup solids added: lactose is the most abundant carbohydrate found in breastmilk, our carbohydrate source is from pure cow’s milk lactose only.
• USDA Certified Organic, no genetically engineered elements, kosher dairy, gluten-free.

 

If you are feeding your baby formula occasionally, things may take a wrong turn. Your baby may start rejecting one. However, with Plum Organics Grow Well formula, you may just be able to make a regular smooth transition between the two.

Apparently, this is made quite safe with no genetically modified substances and lactose from cow’s milk. Moreover, it has all the necessary ingredients that will help your baby grow even without breast milk. Apparently, it contains just the necessary components and nothing more which makes it quite harmless.

However, it does tend to cause more gas in babies who have trouble digesting lactose. Also, it is quite foamy. Some parents suggest stirring the milk rather than shaking it to avoid foams. You can also add probiotics to it in order to help the baby digest better.

The DHA and ARA they include use hexane in their production process so that is not something everyone will like. Apart from that, it seemed to cause constipation in some babies.

What We Liked

Easy transition. Contains all the necessary components. Avoids most unnecessary and harmful components. Does not use antibiotics or growth hormones. Does not cause rashes or allergies.

What We Didn’t Like

May cause gas and constipation. DHA and ARA manufacturing process contains hexane. Quite foamy.

 6. Earth’s Best Organic Dairy Infant Powder Formula with Iron.

• All lactose formulation; This closest formula to breast milk, no mixed corn syrup solids
• DHA & ARA: naturally made in breast milk for baby’s brain and eye development
• With lutein for eyes and prebiotics for Immunity
• USDA Organic certified & Kosher; no artificial flavors, colors, preservatives, growth hormones, antibiotics, steroids or potentially harmful pesticides/herbicides.

What can you expect from the Earth’s Best? Definitely the best. In fact, it is quite good at providing your little one all the nutrition he needs.

Starting from lactose to important minerals- it contains it all. However, it also contains Palm oil, folic acid, and DHA and ARA. Fortunately, the DHA and ARA included in this formula is good for the baby’s development. Even the small amount of hexane that may be present will not cause harm.

However, the DHA is probably extracted from fish because it not only has a fishy smell but it also tastes fishy. This is why many babies reject this formula right away. Other than that, this formula can cause constipation.

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What We Liked

Quite organic. Provides the required nutrients. Quite affordable. Easy to prepare.

What We Didn’t Like

Contains palm oil, folic acid. Has a fishy taste and smell. Can cause constipation.

7. Happy Tot Organic Toddler Milk.

• ORGANIC FORMULA: Every parent’s feeding journey has the same goal: give your toddler the best nourishment possible. Breast milk offers ideal nutrition, but when it’s not possible we have a great organic formula to get little ones off to the best start.
• STAGE FOUR EATERS: The most important aspect of food for the toddler years is the quality–the types of carbs, protein, and fat, as well as the vitamins and minerals, in the foods you feed your baby & Happy Tot’s Stage 4 foods are great for picky eaters!

Want to use a brand that will not only support your baby through the infant years but also during the toddler stage? Then, Happy Tot Organic milk may be what you need in your life. Apparently, it has all the ingredients your toddler needs to grow into a strong human.

In fact, it contains milk-based powder along with DHA and ARA to promote brain health and also vitamins and minerals like calcium, iron and Vitamin D. However, it also contains palm oil which may disturb calcium absorption. Other than that, this milk used to have less sugar in it than other brands but has increased the amount recently.

However, it is still a good choice. Apparently, it does not taste that great and is not very easy to mix either. If you let it sit then a dense layer forms at the bottom which is hard to clean too.

It may also cause rashes if it does not suit your baby. Changing the stage of milk according to age and requirements may be hard as babies do not accept this formula equally at all stages. It is quite affordable.

What We Liked

Provides all the required nutrients. Contains DHA and ARA that does not use hexane. Supports child during different ages and stages. Good value for the price. Contains less sugar.

What We Didn’t Like

Settles down if left to sit. Hard to clean. Contains palm oil. May cause rashes.

8. Munchkin Grass Fed Toddler Milk Drink.

• Milk from 100% certified grass-fed New Zealand cows contains high-level Vitamins A & E and a proper balance of Omega 3 to Omega 6 fatty acids.
• This milk is GMO-free, rBGH free, grain free, antibiotic free.
• Includes hexane free DHA and ARA to support brain development well and lactoferrin, an immune system booster.
• Includes (3) Stage 2 Grass Fed Toddler Drink canisters.
• Suitable for children 1 to 3 Years babies.

New Zealand is quite a sight to see as a country and it is quite famous for its dairy products as well. The miles of green fields with cows on it speak for themselves. The Munchkin Grass Fed Toddler Milk is made in New Zealand and you can only expect the best from it.

Apparently, it is quite a healthy option for babies as it is made using grass-fed cows. Other than that, it uses DHA to provide some benefits that breastmilk do. This DHA is safe for drinking because it is made free from hexane.

Not only does this formula provide the baby with all the nutrient he needs but it is also very tasty to drink. In fact, it has a very high acceptance rate. However, the formula does contain soy which many babies cannot accept.

Apart from that, it may take some time to completely dissolve. Although some containers may arrive dented, this formula offers great value for the price.

What We Liked

Milk from grass-fed cows. Contains necessary nutrients. Safe DHA. Very tasty and sweet. Babies love it. Offers great value for money.

What We Didn’t Like

Container may be dented. Contains soy. Takes time to dissolve.

9. Baby’s Only Organic Non-GMO Soy Protein Toddler Formula.

• Perfect for dairy allergy including galactosemia; an excellent choice for families who prefer a vegetarian diet or for lactose intolerance
• Organic Non-GMO Soy, Corn Syrup free, No Palm Oil, No Hexane-Processed DHA
• Certified USDA Organic; No harmful pesticides and fertilizer
• 100% BPA Free Packaging
• Made in the U.S.A.
• The best organic start: This baby formula is a good nutritional selection to assure the continuation of strong growth and development.
• 95% Organic.

Most people run away from soy but if you think that your baby needs it, Baby’s Only Organic Toddler Formula with Soy Protein may be a good choice. In fact, this is a great choice for babies with lactose intolerance or parent who wants their babies to have a vegetarian diet.

It contains organic non-GMO Soy which is perfectly safe and does not contain palm oil or DHA which many do not prefer having. Apparently, it is free from many ingredients that can cause allergies and it also helps your baby gain weight fast.

However, it does have a weird smell. Other than that, babies may not accept it because of the grainy texture.

What We Liked

A great alternative for lactose intolerant babies. Supplies babies with ample nutrients. The soy used in it is safe and Non-GMO. Contains no harmful component. Quite affordable.

What We Didn’t Like

Smells weird. Grainy texture.

10. Vermont Organics Baby Formula – Powder.

• Complete nutrition for baby’s first year.
• Made with organic milk.
• DHA, lutein & vitamin E.
• Milk-based.
• Reconstituted liquid volume: 172 fl oz.
• Manufactured with Non-GMO* Ingredients.
• No Potentially Harmful Pesticides¹.

If you are having a hard time switching your baby to formula milk then you can try this Vermont Baby Formula out. Apparently, it has a taste that most babies like and accept right away. Moreover, it has milk content alongside DHA for helping the baby’s growth.

However, what makes the formula taste so sweet is corn syrup and that is not something experts prefer in formula milk. Other than that, you have to swirl it rather than shaking it to not make it frothy. It has a thicker texture than other formulas.

While some babies had a really good time with this formula with no gas or other conditions, some others did not. It mainly depends on your baby if this formula will suit him. But, it never causes allergies or rashes.

You may find it a bit overpriced.

What We Liked

A good organic option with safe contents. Babies accept it easily as it tastes great. Contains safe DHA that helps development. Does not cause allergies. Follows industry standard for organic products.

What We Didn’t Like

Contains corn syrup. May cause gas and constipation. Maybe thick or frothy in texture. Quite overpriced.

 As you are neither a dietician nor a doctor, choosing the best organic baby formula won’t be easy. This buying guide will make the most basic things easier for you to understand.

1. The Forms Available- Some that make life easier.

 When you are out to find the organic formula perfect for your child, you will come across many brands and types. The first decision you will have to make is the form you get the formula in. You will find it in three forms and each has its benefits.

Powdered Formula: This will require some work on your part like mixing water to make a solution. However, this form is cheaper than others and also safer. This is because many particles get dissolved in the liquid form and so does the BPA in plastic bottles. There is no chance of such an occurrence when you are using powdered formula.

Concentrated Liquid Formula: Apparently, this is much like the juices you buy from convenience stores. In fact, they are in their liquid forms but much denser than the form that can be consumed. You have to add water to it as well and stir. Luckily, the ingredients come dissolved and these are much more expensive than the powdered formula.

Ready-to-drink Formula: You do not have to do anything other than open the packet and serve it to your child. This comes completely ready for consumption and is the most expensive and may just be the unsafest as well. So, if you do use it, be cautious of its effects on your child.

2. The must-haves- Ingredients that your baby needs.

If you are feeding your baby formula milk only occasionally, you can take it easy because breast milk is definitely the best source of all nutrients your baby needs. However, if you use formula most of the time, you have more work to do. Apparently, it is only through milk that your baby gets all the nutrients he needs and breast milk has it all.

Same cannot be said about formula milk. This is why you have to make sure that the formula contains the following three:

• Carbohydrates: To give the baby all the energy he requires for all those complex and crucial internal and external functions.
• Proteins: In order to develop hair, teeth, nails and other body parts and also help the immunity and hormonal developments.
• Fats: For protection, storage of energy and much more.
• Vegetable and fish oils.

Other than that, there are various minerals and vitamins that formula must contain. Among them one of the most important ones is:

Iron: A very important mineral not for just babies but also adults. But, babies need it more to prevent iron deficiency and experience adequate growth.

3. The must-not- The ingredients that are potentially harmful.

Although you will find many organic formulae available, not all of them are safe. This is because keeping things natural and organic is quite expensive and tough. So, many brands tend to include some ‘organic’ ingredients that are not helpful but can be harmful. This includes:

• Brown Rice Syrup: In fact, this is something brands used to make the milk taste sweeter so babies accept it. However, it often contains arsenic so it has been banned. Therefore, check the label for it and if you find it, throw the milk away immediately.
• Soy: The soy used in formulas is usually processed and can cause various troubles so it is best to avoid it.
• Palm and Canola Oil: While palm oil is alright for adults, it is not for infants. In fact, it can diminish the infant’s ability to absorb essential minerals like calcium.
• Carrageenan: It is organic but can cause inflammations and even tumors.
• Preservatives: You do not want to expose your child to it so soon.

You should check any other chemicals you find in the label and make sure it is safe.

 4. The May-haves- Does not cause harm instantly but does not help either.

There exists some controversy regarding some ingredients. Some experts say these are helpful, some others say they don’t help and another portion says they are harmful. These are:

• DHA and ARA: Apparently, these are synthesized fatty acids and people believe they help eye and brain development. In fact, these are included to replace some essential ingredients that are available in breastmilk. However, some components of breast milk can never be created artificially. That is why the DHA and ARA used in formulas are not considered the safest or effective.
• Prebiotics and Probiotics: These are components that create good bacteria in the baby’s stomach. While this is good prevention against various infections, the artificial or man-made versions are not the most trustworthy. This is why you need to monitor your baby’s reaction first to see if this component is alright.

There are many other such ingredients that you may choose to include or exclude.

5. Lactose or no lactose- Because some babies don’t take them well.

If your baby has trouble digesting lactose which is an essential part of milk then no worries because you will find a formula that either has no lactose or have them in simpler forms. Apparently, some formula contains lactose in such a for that are easier for babies to digest and thus cause no gas or other trouble.

Apart from that, lactose is also responsible for making the milk taste sweet. If your baby is allergic or reactant to lactose you can use maltodextrin as a replacing component. Apparently, it is extracted from rice, corn or potatoes and is completely natural. Furthermore, it does not pose threats of obesity either.

However, make sure you avoid plant sucrose and corn syrups as sweeteners as they can cause obesity and more problems.

6. Cow’s, goat’s or camel’s milk- Depends on your baby.

Some babies do not take dairy products well. Very ironic, right? The only thing these little beings live on is milk and they have reactions to it.

The babies who cannot digest cow’s milk well can try goat’s milk which is usually more easy to digest. However, babies who are allergic or cannot take cow’s milk are probably the same as goat’s milk.

In this case, you can surely try out camel’s milk which apparently has healing properties as well. However, this will be much more expensive.

7. The Carriers: Because it touches your baby’s drink.

It is best if you avoid plastic bottles or packets at all costs. Plastics contain BPA and BPA causes irreparable damage in the long run. Even the infants in the tummy if exposed to BPA experience attention deficit behaviors and more when they grow.

It has been linked to breast and prostate cancer as well. And, plastic bottles containing BPA can easily transport it to the milk inside. So, choose the carrier carefully. Choose a brand that takes care of such issues.

 8. The Price- Since you have to buy quite frequently.

When you are feeding your baby formula, you will realize that monthly expenditures get really high. However, you cannot really just go for the cheap options because it concerns your baby’s health. The cheaper you go, the more health hazard is included in the packet.

So, it is best to choose a brand that has the ingredients you need, avoids the harmful and is affordable but not too cheap. You, however, can follow some tips to reduce cost.

Firstly, never buy liquid milk in bulk and always check the expiry date or ‘use before’ tag. All the milk you buy in bulk will be pointless if it is unsuitable for drinking.

Secondly, always buy the bigger cans of powdered milk because they do not only contain more, but they offer more value when it comes to the price.

 

Once you get your baby used to a certain brand of formula, it is not easy to switch. Then again, you do not want to expose your child to harmful components or components that do him no good. This is why you have to choose the best organic infant formula right away before the first use.

You cannot be sure if it will suit your baby’s gut but you can be sure that it’s safe. So, make sure it is safe first and then confirm it is compatible with your baby. There are loads of different kinds of organic formula available even with specialized ingredients.

You just have to specify your need and look hard for the right one. But, never feed your baby anything other than the best organic baby formula. Because that is the only thing helping your baby grow.