Formula

At Boob to Food, we are passionate about supporting and promoting extended breastfeeding. But we also believe that families who use infant formula (whether by choice, necessity or a combination of both) deserve evidence-based, shame-free information that empowers them to feed their baby safely and confidently. Despite how common formula feeding is, there remains a significant gap in accessible, non-judgmental education for parents. As a result, many parents are left without clear guidance on how to choose, prepare or handle infant formula safely.

When we look at breastfeeding data in Australia, it becomes even clearer why this support is needed: while 93% of babies are breastfed initially, only 60% are still receiving any breastmilk by 4 months, 29% are exclusively breastfed at 6 months, and just 7% continue to receive breastmilk at 12 months.¹ With so many families introducing formula earlier than expected or planned, accessible, evidence-informed guidance is essential.

Should you use the same formula that the hospital used?

Many parents assume that the brand of formula offered in hospitals is the “best”. But in reality, most Australian hospitals select a formula brand because of procurement agreements and tender processes, not because that brand is superior. Hospitals typically partner with formula companies that offer cost-effective bulk supply and reliable distribution.

All formulas provided in hospitals must still meet the strict nutritional and safety standards set by Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ), meaning they are safe and appropriate for infants who need them. However, the brand stocked is usually chosen for practical and economic reasons rather than because it is inherently better than other formulas available to families once they leave hospital.

Choosing an Infant Formula

With so many options on the market, choosing a formula can feel overwhelming. It’s important to remember that every infant formula sold in Australia and New Zealand must meet FSANZ standards, which specify minimum and maximum levels for energy, protein, essential vitamins, and minerals.² This means that any approved formula will provide the nutrients your baby needs to grow. However, formulas do differ in ingredients, and what matters most will vary depending on your family’s priorities and your baby’s needs.

Main types of Formula:³

• Cow’s milk formula – The most common and generally well-tolerated. Premium labels such as “Gold” or “Optimum” are not proven to be nutritionally superior to standard formulas, however they often contain added fatty acids and pre/probiotics.
• A2 formula – Made from cow’s milk containing only the A2 protein. Limited evidence suggests it may be easier to digest for some babies.
• Organic formula – Made with certified organic ingredients, such as milk from cows raised without growth hormones or synthetic chemicals.
• Goat’s milk formula – Similar to cow’s milk, not suitable for infants with a cow’s milk allergy. Anecdotally, some people find that goat’s milk is more gentle on the gut for some babies.
• Soy-based formula – A plant-based, lactose-free formula. Not recommended for babies under 6 months or those with allergies. Seek medical advice to discuss whether this is an appropriate option for your baby.
• Rice-based formula – Made from rice protein and hence it is plant-based, dairy-free and gluten-free. It may be used for allergies when other formulas are not tolerated, if recommended by a health professional.
• Partially or extensively hydrolysed / elemental formula – Designed for babies with diagnosed allergies or intolerances. Should only be used under medical supervision.

Other Considerations

Families may have different priorities when selecting a formula, such as organic ingredients, Australian-made products, palm oil-free or plant-based options. Here are some examples:

• Organic: Holle, Sprout, Ocean Road Dairies, Bellamy’s Organic, Bubs Organic
• Australian cows: Mumamoo, Ocean Road Dairies
• Goat’s milk: Holle, Little Oak, Oli6
• Plant-based: Sprout, Novolac Allergy, Coco2
• Palm oil-free: Little Oak, Sprout, Holle, Ocean Road Dairies, Coco2
• Containing pre and probiotics: Aptamil Profutura 1-4, Aptamil Prosyneo, Biostime
• Hydrolysed: Usually prescription only and only recommended under medical supervision

*Please note that this is not a complete list and we have not reviewed every formula brand on the market. We are not affiliated with any of these brands.

While it’s not currently mandatory to add DHA and AHA to infant formula in Australia, these fatty acids play a crucial role in the early development of the brain. Therefore, this is something to consider when choosing an infant formula. Similarly, not all infant formulas contain pre and probiotics, so this is something else to consider. An alternative could be supplementation, rather than using formula containing these ingredients.

Our experienced team can assist you with choosing a brand of formula that suits your child, or with recommending supplements that might be needed. Book an individualised consultation here.

Overseas Formulas

Many international formulas are available online, but caution is needed. Some are not approved by FSANZ, and concerns exist around storage, recalls and regulatory differences. Always consult a health professional before using formulas sourced overseas.

When to Consider a Different Formula

Every baby is different, and some may not tolerate a particular formula well. However, it’s important not to switch formulas too quickly. Many common baby behaviours (like gas, spitting up or frequent crying) can be normal and not necessarily signs of intolerance.

You may consider speaking to a healthcare professional if your baby experiences:

• Persistent vomiting
  
• Blood or mucus in stools
  
• Poor weight gain
  
• Severe eczema

Avoid switching formulas frequently without professional support, as this can worsen symptoms or upset your baby’s gut further.

Can I give my baby cows milk instead of formula from 6 months?

This is not something we would recommend. According to the World Health Organization (WHO) complementary feeding guidelines, infants aged 6–11 months who are NOT breastfed can be offered either infant formula or full-fat cow’s milk.⁴ However, it’s important to recognise that the WHO provides global guidance, including for settings where access to formula, clean water or affordability may be limited. The recommendation was based on low-certainty evidence suggesting no significant difference in growth outcomes between formula and cows milk, however the same evidence also found that replacing formula with cow’s milk increases the risk of iron deficiency and anaemia.⁵ While cow’s milk may be considered a pragmatic alternative in some circumstances, the WHO acknowledges that formula has nutritional advantages.

At Boob to Food, our advice for non-breastfed infants under 12 months is infant formula. It is a more appropriate choice than cow’s milk as it provides essential iron, fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals. Families considering cow’s milk before 12 months should do so under the guidance of a GP or qualified health professional.

What about toddler formulas?

Toddler formulas (also known as toddler milks) are marketed for children over 12 months of age, but they are not necessary for healthy toddlers and are not recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO) or other health professional bodies.^6,7

Once a child turns one, most of their nutrition should come from a balanced diet of family foods alongside breastmilk. Unfortunately, the marketing of toddler milks is often misleading, implying they are essential for growth, brain development, or immunity, which can cause unnecessary concern for parents and undermine confidence in offering normal foods.⁸

These products are typically highly processed, more expensive than regular milk, and may contain added sugars, flavourings or unnecessary nutrients that toddlers can obtain from a varied whole-food diet.

The WHO has raised concerns that the promotion of toddler milks can also undermine breastfeeding and contribute to poor dietary habits. For most toddlers, a diverse diet that includes iron-rich foods, healthy fats, and a range of whole foods is sufficient to support growth and development. If you need help transitioning your baby from breastmilk/formula to a balanced diet, you may find our weaning blog helpful.

Disclaimer

This blog is provided for general information only. Discussing infant formula in Australia is highly regulated, and this post is not promoting, advertising, or affiliated with any formula brand. Our intention is solely to provide evidence-based guidance to help families understand the ingredients and options in infant formula, particularly for parents who are unable to breastfeed. This information is not a substitute for personalised medical advice, and we strongly recommend consulting a GP or qualified health professional regarding your baby’s specific needs.

References:

1. Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW). (2022). Infant Feeding https://www.aihw.gov.au/reports/childhood-education-and-care/infant-feeding
2. Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ), Standard 2.9.1 – Infant Formula Products https://www.foodstandards.gov.au
3. Sydney Children’s Hospitals Network 2025, Infant Formula Factsheet, NSW Government, https://www.schn.health.nsw.gov.au/infant-formula-factsheet
4. World Health Organization. WHO Guideline for Complementary Feeding of Infants and Young Children 6–23 Months of Age. WHO; 2023.
5. Lutter CK, et al. Animal milk vs infant formula for children 6–11 months: systematic review. WHO Evidence Review, 2023.
6. World Health Organization. Guidance on Ending the Inappropriate Promotion of Foods for Infants and Young Children. 2016.
7. World Health Organization. Feeding and Nutrition of Infants and Young Children.
8. European Society for Paediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition (ESPGHAN). Young Child Formula: A Position Paper. 2018.