Ms. Mary Silva
Specializing in feeding and nutrition.
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 Ask Mary Silva
Alternating Different Brands of Formula | | | QUESTION | | | Dear Ms. Silva,
Is it okay to alternate different brands of infant formula? My daughter is three months old and is fed Enfamil with iron, but I have received several free cans of Similac with iron. I would like to know if I can use them or would it upset her stomach? My healthcare provider did tell me it was okay to use the generic brands. What do you think? Is it OK? Would appreciate your input. Thank You.— Lisa in Omaha, NE | | | ANSWER |
July 11, 2001 | | | Dear Lisa,
In general, it is safe to use different brands of formula. Babies usually are able to transition from one brand of formula to another quite easily.
The composition of infant formulas is regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) to ensure that formulas provide the necessary nutrients infant need. Thus, there is little difference in the brands of formula available.
One difference that you might see is the source of protein, carbohydrates, and fat. The most common sources of protein used in formula are cow's milk and soybeans. The brands you mention are both cow’s milk based formulas, therefore they can be used interchangeably.— by Mary Silva, M.S., R.D. |
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