Enfamil vs Similac: Which is the Best Baby Formula?

Last Updated: June 14, 2022

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When you enter a supermarket, there are so many times you’ve wished that you could have your baby sample all the formulas before investing in one. But, do you know what is the best baby formula for your little one?

Finding the right baby formula for your infant is a difficult task since all babies have varied requirements. While some babies do better on regular formulas, some need special attention with spit-up-specific or sensitive stomach-specific formulas. Even if you luckily find a brand that works well, that’s still only half the battle because most brands have different types of formulas under one brand name.

The most popular baby formula brands: Enfamil and Similac also have at least 5 different types of formulas each. We understand what a pain finding the right baby formula could be and on that note, we have taken the responsibility of finding you the best organic baby formula for your munchkin.

In this blog ahead, based on our exhaustive research, we have compared 7 similar versions of both brands, Enfamil and Similac. We attempt to offer you all the information you’d need to make an informed decision for your baby. But before that, here are all the basic types of baby formulas and their corresponding products from Enfamil and Similac:

Sl. No.	Type of baby formula	Enfamil product	Similac product
1.	Toddler	Enfamil Enfagrow	Similac Go and Grow
2.	Premature	Enfamil ENfacare	Similac NeoSure
3.	Hypoallergenic	Enfamil Nutramigen	Similac Alimentum
4.	Gentle or easy-to-digest	Enfamil Gentlease	Similac Pro-total Comfort
5.	Lactose-free	Enfamil ProSoBee	Similac Pro-sensitive
6.	Cow’s milk-based	Enfamil Enspire	Similac Advance
7.	Added rice starch	Enfamil A.R.	Similac for Spit-up

Enfamil or Similac: Read on to Find Your Baby’s Perfect Choice!

1. Gentlease Infant Formula Enfamil or Similac Sensitive Non-GMO Infant Formula

Point of comparison	Enfamil Gentlease Infant Formula	Similac Sensitive Non-GMO Infant Formula
Purpose of both the formulas	Both of these formulas are best formulas for gassy babies with a sensitive stomach and those who show some vulnerability to gas and fussiness. While they are different on some parameters, the goal of both these formulas remains to “reduce gas, crying, and fussiness.”
Are Similac sensitive non-GMO infant formula and Enfamil Gentlease infant formula the same?	Similar levels of proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and water. Both formulas use corn syrup solids that help a baby digest cow milk easier. Both formulas are available in non-GMO versions.
What is the difference between Similac-sensitive non-GMO infant formula and Enfamil Gentlease infant formula?	Enfamil uses partially hydrolyzed non-fat milk and soy protein concentrate solids to aid the sensitive stomach of the baby and help in the seamless digestion of cow milk.	Similac contains Linoleic Acid and added 2′ -FL HMO sugars, which serves as a powerful prebiotic (as regular sugar can be very hard for a baby to digest). It also has milk protein isolate, which, though is an easy-to-digest ingredient, can potentially cause allergies and indigestion in a baby.
Our verdict: Enfamil Gentlease stands as a clear winner here because their ingredients are much more gentle for a baby who suffers from gas. They also do not use any added sugars and do not contain the isolated milk protein isolate that could cause indigestion in a baby. However, if you already have tried Gentlease and your baby does not seem to like it, Similac’s Sensitive formula could be the next best alternative.

2. A.R. Infant Formula Enfamil or Similac Spit-Up Infant Formula

Point of comparison	Enfamil A.R.	Similac Spit-up
Purpose of both the formulas	Both of these formulas specifically cater to babies who struggle with a spit-up problem. While 5 spit-ups per day are considered normal, some babies tend to spit up more than that due to their generally sensitive stomachs.
Similarities between Enfamil A.R. infant formula and Similac spit-up infant formula	Both use rice starch to thicken the formula. Similac and Enfamil both utilize two distinct sources of sugar to help fussy tummies calm; Similac uses two different sources of sugar while Enfamil only uses one. Both contain vitamin and mineral combinations that are quite similar.
Differences between Enfamil A.R. infant formula and Similac spit-up infant formula	Enfamil has a thick formula equipped with prebiotics that enhances digestion. As their main ingredient, Enfamil uses nonfat milk, rice starch, vegetable oils, maltodextrin, and lactose. The AR Enfamil contains 2 prebiotics	Similac does not go into detail about its formula, and all we know is that it is meant to reduce spit-up. As the main ingredients, Similac uses corn syrup, milk isolate proteins, modified rice starch, vegetable oils, and a prebiotic. Their mixture does not contain enough milk sources helpful for spit-up.
Our verdict: None of these two formulas are perfectly ideal. However, since Enfamil contains less sugar and more probiotics than Similac, they are a winner again.

3. Nutramigen with Enflora LGG Infant Formula Enfamil or Similac Expert Care Alimentum Hypoallergenic Infant Formula

Point of comparison	Enfamil Nutramigen	Similac Alimentum
Purpose of both the formulas	Both target babies who are allergic to cow milk and tend to show colicky symptoms as a result thereof. It should be noted that cow’s milk has proteins more difficult to digest than human breast milk, yet, while most babies do not show any side effects, some cannot tolerate cow’s milk at all.
Similarities between Enfamil nutramigen and Similac alimentum	Both contain casein hydrolysate (milk), which are easy-to-digest proteins derived from cow’s milk proteins. Both use sugars to aid digestion. Enfamil uses corn syrup, while Similac uses corn maltodextrin; both of which are glucose but break down differently than lactose.
Differences between Enfamil nutramigen and Similac alimentum	Clinically proven to reduce colic and future incidences of cow’s milk allergies while still providing overall health for your infant. Nutramigen is considered hypoallergenic, easy to digest, and a remedy for milk protein allergies. Enfamil thickens the formula using modified maize starch, which improves digestion but may not be easily digested by newborns because it is ‘modified’ in nature.	Because of its easy-to-digest formula, Similac’s Alimentum is said to alleviate colic symptoms in as little as one day while improving a baby’s general health. The formula is also labeled as lactose-free, which is not completely true as it is still milk-based with dairy products, however, it is powdered milk. Similac uses corn maltodextrin instead of cornstarch and adds sugar on top of the corn maltodextrin.
Our verdict: Enfamil’s Nutramigen wins again since it is not only easier to digest but also helps babies tolerate milk better as they grow up. Another winning point is the fact that they do not add sugars after cornstarch as Similac does.

4. Infant Milk-based Baby Formula Enfamil or Similac Advance Complete Nutrition Infant Formula

Point of comparison	Enfamil Infant Milk-based	Similac Advance Complete Nutrition
Purpose of both the formulas	Both of these formulas intend to provide the basic nourishment required by a baby in their initial years of life. Both of these products are standard infant formulas.
Similarities between Enfamil milk-based infant formula and Similac advance complete nutrition	Both are milk-based formula options, including nonfat milk, lactose, whey protein, and a mixture of high oleic safflower oil, soy oil, and coconut oil. Neither contains any added extra sugars. Both offer DHA (a fatty acid), Choline (a nutrient grouped with vitamin B), and Vitamin K as their key ingredients. Both contain a prebiotic.
Differences between Enfamil milk-based infant formula and Similac advance complete nutrition	Enfamil formula, apart from the aforementioned, also has palm olein oil. (Palm Olein oil is a fatty acid similar to breast milk and can be difficult on sensitive baby tummies).	Similac, apart from the aforementioned, also contains lutein which helps enhance a baby’s vision.
Our verdict: Similac Advance Formula is a clear winner over Enfamil’s Infant Formula not only because it contains lutein which has early pediatric benefits but also for the lack of potentially problematic Palm Olein Oil.

5. NeuroPro Enfamil or Similac 2′ -FL HMO Pro Advance

Point of comparison	Enfamil NutramigeNeuroPro	Similac 2′ -FL HMO
Purpose of both the formulas	Both formulas intend to mimic breast milk with their formula by attempting to supply as many nutrients as available in breastmilk, albeit in powder milk.
Similarities between Enfamil nutramigeNeuro Pro and Similac 2’ – FL HMO	Both are DHA boosted, easy-to-digest formulas. Both offer fat (around 5 grams per serving), protein, water, and carbohydrates. Both offer the same vitamins and minerals. Neither contains added or artificial sugars. The base of both formulas is made up of nonfat milk, lactose (which aids calcium absorption), and a blend of high oleic safflower oil, soy oil, and coconut oil.
Differences between Enfamil nutramigNeuro Pro and Similac 2’-FL HMO	Enfamil NeuroPro supports brain development. It is the only brand that introduced MFGM. Good to know: MFGM stands for Milk Fat Globule Membrane, it is a fat protein that is coupled with DHA which was previously found in breastmilk, is known to support cognitive development. It surrounds droplets of fat in the breast milk that helps brain structure enhance in infants. Breast Milk contains 55% fat; fat is a necessary nutrient for the growth of an infant’s brain as well as to provide the overall energy and support for growth. Contains Palm Olein, a fatty acid comparable to breast milk that might be harsh for delicate infant stomachs, as indicated in the previous section.	Similac Pro Advanced supports immunity. Similac contains 2′ -FL Human Milk Oligosaccharide or HMO. Good to know: 2′ -FL Human Milk Oligosaccharide also supports brain development and it is essentially an immune- boosting prebiotic, earlier found only in breastmilk. Prebiotics help nourishes healthy bacteria, allowing them to thrive in the GI tract. Contains significantly high amounts of omega fatty acids in the form of linoleic acid. Claim to reduce colic symptoms in just one feeding. It also claims to avoid the artificial growth of hormones and GMOs in the formula. Contains Lutein which helps enhance the baby’s vision.
Our verdict: Both of these formulas are excellent in what they do. While Enfamil NutramigeNeuroPro effectively helps support the development of the brain, given the ingredients; Similac 2′ -FL HMO helps boost immunity. You should pick between these formulas based on the requirements of the baby. For example, if the baby is weaker than other babies of the age, try Similac 2′ -FL HMO Pro Advance. If you do not have any problems with the baby’s immunity and if your baby is as healthy as they should ideally be, Enfamil’s Neuro-Pro could be a wise choice.

6. ProSobee Enfamil or Similac Soy Isomil

Point of comparison	Enfamil ProSobee	Similac Soy Isomil
Purpose of both the formulas	Both Enfamil and Similac offer a complete milk-free formula for those babies who cannot digest cow’s milk proteins. Soy-based formulas are a natural and gentle alternative for lactose intolerant babies.
Similarities between Enfamil ProSoBee and Similac SOy Isomil	Both use corn syrup as the first ingredient. Both use soy protein isolate. Both do not contain any form of milk-based products. Both offer the necessary nutrition for the baby to flourish, including vitamins, fats, proteins, carbohydrates, and water.
Differences between Enfamil ProSoBee and Similac Soy Isomil	Enfamil has soy protein as the third ingredient; after corn syrup and vegetable oils.	Similac uses soy protein as the second ingredient followed by oils. Similac’s formula contains added sugar to its soy formula. It also has a higher Linoleic Acid level.
Our verdict: Only because Enfamil’s ProSobee recipe uses fewer sugars and is a better option in our opinion.

7. Enfagrow Premium Enfamil or Similac Go And Grow

Point of comparison	Enfamil Enfagrow Premium	Similac Go And Grow
Purpose of both the formulas	Both Enfamil Enfagrow Premium and Similac Go & Grow, give a good nutritious foundation for your toddler’s development.
Similarities between Enfamil Enfagrow Premium and Similac Go and Grow	Are high in DHA, which aids in the formation of the brain. There are two kinds of probiotics in both of these products.
Differences between Enfamil Enfagrow and Similac Go and Grow	Calcium, Vitamin D, Zinc, and 19 other minerals are included to aid growth and development and round out a toddler’s diet. It is enriched with vitamins and minerals and contains dual prebiotics to boost overall immune health.	Has DHA, lutein, and vitamin E which are vital nutrients for the brain and visual development of your child. It has prebiotics that help with digestion, and it’s non-GMO and free of chemical growth hormones.
Our verdict: Since Enfamil has twice as much DHA as Similac and has 30% less sugar, Enfamil is a better choice.

Enfamil or Similac: Price Considerations

When you are on the hunt for the perfect baby formula for your little one, price is an important concern after its compatibility with your baby’s health system. One of the characteristics of baby formula that affects its price is its preparation. We have segregated a formula’s price range for each method of preparation:

Lowest price: The lowest price of baby formula comes in powdered form. You can mix it with water and use it within 1 to 2 hours of your baby starting a bottle. This, however, depends on the formula’s type and brand.
Mid-range price: The baby formula with a mid-range price will be a liquid concentrate. You may mix it with water to serve and refrigerate it for up to 48 hours.
Highest price: The highest price for baby formulas are the ones that are ready-to-feed types. You need not mix it with anything and once you open it, you can refrigerate it safely for up to 48 hours.

What is The Best Formula for Babies?

Apart from Enfamil and Similac ruling the baby formula market, we listed out some baby formulas that could do your little one good. Considering the different and individual needs of your baby, we have curated the three best baby formulas in 2022. Have a look:

Kirkland Signature ProCare Non-GMO Infant Formula
Member’s Mark Infant
Up & Up Advantage Infant Formula

Here’s why the above baby formulas are some of the best nutrition you can give your kid:

1. Kirkland Signature ProCare Non-GMO Infant Formula ($99.94)

The least expensive one on this list, Kirkland Infant formula has lactose as the sole carbohydrate with added whey protein (50%), casein (50%), and non-fat milk to make it as similar as human milk. It also includes

Prebiotics (2’-FL and Fructooligosaccharides)
Nucleotides
L-carnitine
Taurine
Lutein
ARA
DHA

If you are concerned about constipation, this formula uses safflower oil instead of palm oil. Some customers have reviewed that their babies have spit-up or gassiness while switching between the Kirkland Signature and Kirkland Signature ProCare.

2. Member’s Mark Infant ($22.98)

Member’s Mark is a product by Perrigo that comes with added whey (60%), casein (40%), protein from non-fat milk, and lactose as the carbohydrate. These infant formulas contain

Palm oil
Vegetable oils
ARA
DHA
Prebiotics (fructooligosaccharides and galactooligosaccharides)

It comes in a 48-ounce container that doesn’t include 2’-FL or lutein (but then the benefits of 2’-FL have not been firmly established).

3. Up & Up Advantage Infant Formula ($19.99)

This is a bit costlier option on this list but definitely worth the splurge. Up & Up also uses lactose as the sole carbohydrate, 50% whey protein, 50% casein, and protein from non-fat milk. It also has nutrients like

Prebiotics (2’-FL and Fructooligosaccharides)
Nucleotides
L-carnitine
Taurine
Lutein
ARA
DHA

It uses palm oil, which is safe for a majority of babies. The product is manufactured y Perrigo and is available in the following sizes:

35-ounce
2-ounce
4-ounce

The Bottom Line: Enfamil or Similac

Both Enfamil and Similac make products to fulfill your baby’s nutritional needs. Choosing the perfect brand depends on several factors such as

Cost
What your baby will accept
Format (ready-to-feed, liquid concentrate, and powdered)
Type (Premature, lactose-free, cow’s milk-based, etc.)
Recommendations from a pediatrician,

However, rest assured that both these brands (Enfamil or Similac) have advanced safety and high-quality standards. Neither can be a wrong choice given that your baby has no allergies, which is quite rare.

Enfamil vs Similac - FAQs :

1. How do I know when a baby formula does not suit my baby ?

Well, typically, a baby will not drink the formula if they don't like it. Besides, if your baby seems to get fussy, irritable and also shows physical symptoms like rashes, indigestion, gas and excessive spit ups, it is a clear indicator of the fact that you need to change the baby formula.

2. Can I add my one ingredients to a store-bought baby formula ?

Since all baby formulas are made after extensive research, it is advised to never add anything on your own to the formula.

3. Can I DIY baby formula ?

Homemade formulas might lack a lot of ingredients and nutrients required by a baby for healthy growth. It will be very difficult to apply the science behind mixing breastmilk and making the best baby formula. Hence, it is advised to use a store-bought baby formula. Also it can be dangerous or even deadly to make your own baby formula.

4. Can babies drink two different formulas ?

Yes, it is okay to use varied baby formulas as per baby’s needs, however, never mix two powders at once and always speak to your doctor before using multiple formulas.

5. What is the best baby formula offered by Enfamil and Similac ?

The best formula choices, limited to these two brands, would be as follows-

Point of comparison/ Formula name	Enfamil NeuroPro Infant Formula	Similac Pro-Advance Non-GMO Infant Formula
Contents	Contains DHA and AHA for neural, brain, and eye development Also has partially hydrolyzed nonfat milk to make digestion easy	Contains Lutein and avoids GMOs However, does have a potentially allergenic milk protein isolate and much more sugars than Enfamil for a tastier formula

6. Is it safe to breastfeed and use formula too ?

Yes, it is completely ok and safe for the parents to give the little one formula in addition to the mother’s breast milk, also known as supplementing. This process is also encouraged by most families as a feeding method, be it due to its need in case of low breast milk supply, or as convenience or preference/choice.

7. Is it ok to feed babies two different formulas ?

The switching between two different formulas isn’t a problem at all, there will be no baby fuss or change in the stool as most parents might think of it. In fact, not only switching, but it is completely ok to also mix two different baby formulas if the baby responds better, instead of one.

8. Is it true that babies who drink formula tend to sleep much better ?

Unfortunately they don’t. There are studies that prove that adding solids or formula to the baby’s diet does not guarantee a long nap, especially as they are easy to digest. There is no difference in the sleep patterns.

9. Does not wearing a bra increase milk supply ?

If you wear a bra that happens to compress the breasts and/or are tight around the rib band/cup, then it might cause some issues with the flow of milk and supply. In fact, if you wear the wrong type, it can also lead to constricted or plugged milk ducts. This is why it is necessary to wear nursing bras when breastfeeding.

10. What is the difference between Similac and Enfamil?

Enfamil uses only one type of sugar whereas Similac uses two different types of sugar. For healthy digestion, Enfamil contains 2 prebiotics whereas Similac has only 1.

11. Are Similac and Enfamil the same?

Both Similac and Enfamil have the same types of mixtures of minerals and vitamins and contain more sugar than normal milk. This high sugar content helps in easing fussy tummies by reducing the reflux actions.

Sources

Reviewed By-

Brandi Nicole, Lactation Consultant

Brandi Nicole is a pediatric nurse, a postpartum doula, and an international board-certified lactation consultant. She is a proud member of the International Lactation Consultant Association, the United States Lactation Consultant Association, and the Bay Area Lactation Associates.

On behalf of the editorial team at Parenthoodbliss, we follow strict reporting guidelines and only use credible sources, along with peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and highly respected health organizations. To learn about how we maintain content accurate and up-to-date by reading our medical review and editorial policy.

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