Selecting an infant formula is one of the most important tasks that new mothers and fathers have to make.
Enfamil and Similac are some of the most recommended brands, and they have a variety of formulas depending on the nutritional needs of the newborn and the infant.
We are going to compare Enfamil vs Similac in this all-inclusive guide, as well as review the differences, similarities, ingredients, and suitability of the brands to newborns.
Shared Nutritional Standards: Safety First
Enfamil and Similac products have a similar formula that is governed by the Infant Formula Act, which is enforced by the FDA. This guarantees that all infant formula foods must be of high safety standards and nutritional guidelines.
Parents can be sure that no matter what brand they use, their baby will have the full and balanced nutrition needed during the early stages of development.
Enfamil vs Similac Comparison: Product Line Overview
To help parents make an informed choice, here’s a comparison of matched formulations across both brands:
Need | Enfamil | Similac |
Everyday Nutrition | Enfamil NeuroPro Infant | Similac Pro-Advance/360 Total Care |
Spit-Up/Acid Reflux | Enfamil A.R. | Similac for Spit-Up |
Fussiness & Gas | Enfamil Gentlease | Similac Pro-Total Comfort |
Cow’s Milk Allergy | Enfamil Nutramigen | Similac Alimentum |
Lactose Sensitivity | Enfamil Reguline/Lactofree | Similac Sensitive |
Premature Babies | Enfamil EnfaCare | Similac Neosure |
Organic Option | Enfamil Simply Organic | Similac Organic |
Soy-Based Option | Enfamil ProSobee | Similac Soy Isomil |
Enfamil vs Similac: Ingredient & Nutrient Breakdown
1. DHA & Brain Development
- Enfamil NeuroPro includes MFGM (Milk Fat Globule Membrane) and a higher level of DHA, a key nutrient for brain development.
- Similac Pro-Advance and 360 Total Care include OptiGRO, a blend of DHA, lutein, and vitamin E, but with slightly less DHA than Enfamil.
2. Immune Support
- Similac 360 Total Care features 5 HMO prebiotics, mimicking those found in breast milk, supporting immunity and gut health.
- Enfamil NeuroPro also supports immunity with DHA and MFGM but typically includes fewer HMOs than Similac.
3. Digestive Comfort
- Enfamil Gentlease contains partially hydrolyzed proteins, making it easier for sensitive tummies.
- Similac Pro-Total Comfort also caters to digestion issues and avoids palm olein oil, a fat linked to constipation in some babies.
Similac vs Enfamil for Newborns: Which is Better?
Both brands offer strong formulations for newborns. Here’s how they compare:
Enfamil NeuroPro Infant
- Supports brain development with MFGM & DHA.
- Gentle proteins for easier digestion.
- Widely recommended for early cognitive support.
Similac 360 Total Care
- Contains 5 HMO prebiotics for immune and digestive health.
- No palm olein oil, potentially leading to softer stools.
- Ideal for newborns with digestion concerns.
Verdict:
- For brain development, many paediatricians recommend Enfamil.
- For the immune system and stool softness, Similac has a slight edge.
Speciality Formulas: Allergy, Sensitivity & More
If your baby has specific dietary needs, here’s how both brands compare:
Cow’s Milk Allergy
- Enfamil Nutramigen: Extensively hydrolyzed casein protein for severe milk allergy.
- Similac Alimentum: Similar hydrolyzed formula but with slight taste differences.
Soy-Based Alternatives
- Enfamil ProSobee: Suitable for babies who can’t tolerate dairy.
- Similac Soy Isomil: Also a good non-dairy option with added DHA.
Preemie Nutrition
Enfamil, EnfaCare, and Similac Neosure are enriched formulas for premature or low birthweight babies, supporting catch-up growth.
What Real Parents Say...
“Similac 360 Total Care was easier on my baby’s tummy. The stools were much softer compared to Enfamil.”
“We switched to Enfamil NeuroPro, and our son’s colic significantly improved. Love the added DHA.”
“Similac Pro-Advance is the only formula available in Canada with 2’-FL HMO. Worked well for us.”
Online forums like Reddit and parenting blogs show that both brands have loyal users. Choosing the best formula often comes down to how your baby responds.
Safety & Contaminant Transparency
Over the past years, Consumer Reports cited traces of contaminants in certain baby formula, such as Enfamil Nutramigen.
Both brands are known to undergo intense quality tests internally; however, parents are advised to:
- Regularly check FDA recall alerts.
- Store the formula as instructed.
Follow the preparation guidelines carefully.
Paediatrician Guidance: Always Consult First
Get approval from your paediatrician before switching or beginning any formula.
The trial samples are provided by most doctors, thus you can test the reaction of your baby to each brand without purchasing the containers.
Loyalty Programs: Maximize Savings
- Enfamil Family Beginnings: Offers coupons, samples, and baby tips. Some parents report savings of over $400/year.
- Similac StrongMoms: Similar benefits with free formula checks, nutrition tools, and parenting resources.
Sign up early in your pregnancy or after birth to start receiving savings and samples.
Similac vs Enfamil: Know the Differences
Aspect | Enfamil | Similac |
|---|---|---|
DHA Content | Slightly Higher | Moderate |
HMO Prebiotics | Available (fewer variants) | More robust inclusion in many formulas |
Palm Olein Oil | Present in some variants | Absent in many formulas |
Cost | Slightly Higher | Slightly Lower |
Hypoallergenic Options | Nutramigen, ProSobee | Alimentum, Isomil |
Infant Formula Brand Comparison: Summary
- Enfamil excels in brain development support with added MFGM and DHA.
- Similac offers stronger immune and gut health ingredients, such as 5 HMO prebiotics.
- Pricing is comparable, but Similac often wins on taste and stool consistency.
Both brands meet all FDA requirements and are trusted worldwide.
Enfamil vs Similac: Which Baby Formula Is Best? FAQs:
Both of them are complete in nutrition and safe. Enfamil is perhaps more effective when it comes to the development of the brain; Similac when it comes to digestion and immunity.
The Enfamil NeuroPro and Similac 360 Total Care brands are the best brands that a baby can feed on. The ideal one will depend on the needs of your baby.
One does not fit all. It will depend on which is more important to you: DHA, prebiotics, digestive health or price.
Enfamil contains more DHA and palm olein oil. Similac contains increased prebiotics and is free of palm olein oil, which can aid digestion.
Yes, although you should first check it with your paediatrician and go through it gradually so as not to disturb the stomach of your baby.
