Types of infant formula in the UK: what parents need to know
Walk the baby aisle of any UK supermarket and you will find a dozen different formula tins. NHS guidance is clear once you know what each product actually is and when it is appropriate to use it.
First infant formula: the one to start with
First infant formula, sometimes sold as first milk, is suitable from birth and is the formula the NHS recommends for all formula-fed babies. It is based on whey protein, considered easier for babies to digest than casein-based alternatives. Unless a healthcare professional advises otherwise, first infant formula is the only type your baby needs, and you can continue using it throughout the entire first year.
Goat's milk formula and one key limitation
Goat's milk formula meets the same nutritional standards as cow's milk formula and is suitable from birth. However, it is not less likely to cause allergies: the proteins in goat's milk are structurally similar to those in cow's milk, so it is not a safe alternative for babies with a diagnosed cow's milk allergy.
Specialist formulas: approach with professional guidance
Several formulas are sold over the counter in the UK, but the NHS recommends only using them on professional advice.
Hungry baby formula contains more casein than whey. Casein takes longer to digest, but the NHS states there is no evidence babies settle better or sleep longer on this type. Ask a midwife or health visitor before switching.
Anti-reflux formula (sometimes labelled staydown) is thickened to reduce reflux and should only be used under medical supervision. Some manufacturers recommend lower water temperatures during preparation, but the NHS flags a safety concern: lower temperatures do not reliably kill harmful bacteria in powdered formula.
Comfort formula contains partially hydrolysed proteins and is marketed for colic and constipation, but the NHS notes there is no evidence to support these claims. It is not suitable for babies with a cow's milk allergy.
Lactose-free formula is for the rare infant with lactose intolerance, available from birth under medical supervision. Hypoallergenic formula uses fully hydrolysed proteins and is prescribed by GPs for a confirmed cow's milk allergy. Unlike comfort formula, which only partially breaks down the proteins, it is appropriate for allergy management.
Soya formula: only from 6 months and on advice
Soya formula is sometimes used for babies who cannot tolerate cow's milk, but the NHS advises using it only from 6 months and only when recommended by a health professional. Two concerns apply: it contains phytoestrogens, plant compounds with a structure similar to oestrogen, and there are questions about their effect on development in young infants. It is also more likely than cow's milk formula to harm a baby's teeth.
Follow-on formula and toddler milks: are they necessary?
Follow-on formula must never be given to babies under 6 months old. The NHS also notes that switching to it at 6 months brings no benefits over continuing with first infant formula, so there is no pressing reason to change. Growing-up and toddler milks are aimed at children from 12 months, but the NHS states that children aged 1 to 5 do not need them. From the first birthday, whole or semi-skimmed pasteurised cow's, goat's, or sheep's milk is appropriate as a main drink.
Milks to avoid before 12 months
Several products should never be used as a main drink for babies under 12 months: condensed, evaporated, or dried milk; unpasteurised goat's or sheep's milk; and plant-based drinks such as soya, rice, oat, or almond. Cow's milk can be used in cooking from 6 months but should not be offered as a main drink before the first birthday. If you are unsure which formula is right for your baby, speak with your midwife, health visitor, or GP.
Frequently asked questions
Which formula should I use from birth?
First infant formula (sometimes called first milk) is the formula the NHS recommends from birth. It is based on whey protein and can be used throughout the entire first year, including after solid foods are introduced at around 6 months.
Is goat's milk formula better for babies who might have allergies?
No. The NHS states that goat's milk formula is not less likely to cause allergies than cow's milk formula. The proteins in goat's milk are similar to those in cow's milk, so it is not suitable for babies with a diagnosed cow's milk allergy.
Can I switch to hungry baby formula if my newborn seems unsettled?
The NHS says there is no evidence that babies settle better or sleep longer on hungrier baby formula. It contains more casein, which is harder to digest. Speak to your midwife or health visitor before making any switch.
When can my baby start follow-on formula?
Follow-on formula must never be given to babies under 6 months old. The NHS also notes that research shows switching to follow-on formula at 6 months provides no benefits over continuing with first infant formula.
Is soya formula safe for newborns?
The NHS advises using soya formula only from 6 months and only if recommended by a doctor or health professional. Soya formula contains phytoestrogens, which have a chemical structure similar to oestrogen, and there are concerns about their effect on development in young infants. It is also more likely than cow's milk formula to harm a baby's teeth.
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