Best Formula That Tastes Like Breast Milk

Are you trying to find the best formula that tastes like breast milk for your baby?

Then let me help with my guide to on formula most like breast milk taste!

There are a ton of reasons why you may want to supplement with formula or completely transition your breastfed baby to formula.

However, if you’re baby is use to the taste of breast milk they may struggle to transition to formula due to the differences in taste.

So, to help you find a formula your baby may like, I am going to be looking at some of the brands of formula that have the closest taste to breast milk, so you can make sure that your baby gets the taste that they want alongside the nutrients that they need!

I’ll also discuss some of my top tips on factors to consider when buying baby formulas that taste like breast milk. 

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Why Is the Taste of Breast Milk Important?

Breast milk is more than just a source of essential nutrients; it also carries a distinct and intricate flavor profile that holds significant importance in a baby’s feeding journey.

The taste of breast milk is multifaceted, varying from slightly sweet to a subtle blend of savory and even influenced by the mother’s diet. This distinctive flavor profile is not just a random characteristic; it’s an evolutionary adaptation that serves several crucial purposes.

For newborns, the taste of breast milk is their first introduction to the world of flavors. This diversity in taste helps infants develop a broader palate, making them more receptive to different foods as they grow.

The taste also helps establish a strong bond between the mother and the baby during feeding sessions, creating a comforting and nurturing experience.

In the context of transitioning from breastfeeding to formula, the taste of breast milk takes on a new dimension of importance.

Babies who are accustomed to the taste of their mother’s milk might initially exhibit resistance to the different taste of formula. This can lead to challenges in smoothly introducing formula feeding.

The distinct taste of breast milk acts as a benchmark for babies, and any deviations might trigger their natural instinct to reject unfamiliar substances.

As a result, formula manufacturers have recognized the value of replicating breast milk’s taste as closely as possible. By doing so, they aim to ease the transition for babies and parents alike, reducing potential feeding resistance and ensuring a smoother shift from breastfeeding to formula feeding.

This emphasis on taste underscores the intricate interplay between sensory experiences and infants’ feeding behaviors, showcasing the profound role taste plays in a baby’s early development and nourishment journey.

List of 8 Best Formula That Tastes Like Breast Milk

Best Formula That Tastes Most Like Breastmilk

1. Gerber Good Start GentlePro Infant Formula

Gerber is a big brand name when it comes to baby formula, and with good reason!

The GentlePro formula is Gerber’s closest formular mix to that of breastmilk, so is a great option for those who are unable to produce enough milk or simply need help getting started with breastfeeding.

The only powder infant formula with a blend of DHA, prebiotics & probiotics, important components found in breastmilk to help with digestive health as well as help to promote soft poops.

It contains 2′-FL HMO (Human Milk Oligosaccharide) which is a prebiotic just like one of those found at significant levels in breastmilk.

This powder has been formulated to mimic the consistency of human breast milk as closely as possible.

Whilst the Gerber brand in general is one of the most well-known when it comes to natural tasting milk formulas for babies, but The GentlePro Powder Infant Formula is the closest to breastmilk that Gerber offers, making it a great choice of formula to replicate that natural taste for babies.

As a plus, their packaging is also recyclable.

Pros

• Contains both prebiotic and probiotic for digestive health
• Easy to digest for sensitive tummies
• 2′-FL HMO* and Probiotics (L.reuteri), designed to ease colic, excessive crying, fussiness and gas
• Formulated to mimic the consistency of breast milk
• Blended with 30% lactose
• Fortified with iron
• Non-GMO
• Trusted brand
• Widely available
• Packaging is recyclable

Cons

• Doesn’t contain iron

2. Enfamil Enspire Infant Formula

Enspire is Enfamil’s first and only baby formula in the US that contains the ingredients Lactoferrin and MFGM making it their closest infant formula to breast milk.

Lactoferrin is a protein found in colostrum and breast milk that provides immune support and intestinal development, and MFGM has been shown to support mental development. Omega 3 DHA and Choline are brain support nutrients also found in breast milk.

Enspire is a non-GMO formula.

This offers an all-natural taste that is similar to actual breast milk.

It is fortified with iron, zinc, vitamin B12, and vitamin D, however some parents reported that the formula had a strong ‘iron’ flavor and aftertaste so this may be an issue.

You can learn more in my full Enfamil Enspire Review!

Pros

• Contains Lactoferrin and MFGM
• Includes 2’-FL HMO, PDX, and GOS prebiotics to support immune health
• Eligible to be purchased with Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits
• Non-GMO
• Contains iron

Cons

• Expensive
• Strong ‘iron’ flavor

3. Baby’s Only Organic Sensitive LactoRelief With DHA & ARA

This formula was specially developed for babies who have trouble tolerating dairy products.

Babies who have difficulty tolerating dairy products often experience diarrhea, gas, and stomach aches after consuming them.

This formula is specially formulated to help ease those symptoms. It does this by containing two important nutrients called DHA and ARA.

DHA and ARA are both essential fatty acids that are found in breast milk. The problem is that many babies don’t produce enough of these nutrients when they are young.

So, this formula helps supplement the body with the necessary amount of DHA and ARA needed to keep your baby feeling comfortable, whilst also playing a vital role in helping your baby develop properly.

This formula also contains probiotics, which are beneficial bacteria that live in the digestive tract. Probiotics help maintain a healthy balance of good bacteria in the gut.

The formula is also low in lactose, which means that it won’t cause problems for your child. It is also non-GMO, and it doesn’t contain any artificial sweeteners, flavors, or preservatives.

It has all-natural ingredients though, such as organic canola oil as a fat source.

This is a good option for parents who are looking for a formula that tastes like breast milk but are unable to offer the real thing.

Pros

• Low lactose content
• Non-GMO
• Organic
• DHA and ARA
• Fortified with iron
• No artificial ingredients such as corn syrup
• Tailored to replicate the taste of breast milk 

Cons

• Despite the similar taste, this formula doesn’t have the protein and carbohydrate content that is found naturally in breast milk.

4. Similac 360 Total Care Infant Formula

360 Total care by Similac is another popular brand of infant formula that is designed to mimic the structural identity of breast milk. In fact it is Similac’s closest formula to breast milk.

It has an exclusive blend of 5 HMO prebiotics that are structurally identical to those in breast milk.

HMOs are fantastic as they feed good bacteria in baby’s gut, where 70% of the immune system exists.

The formula also contains no palm olein oil which has been shown to promote softer stools for your baby, more like breastfed infants.

The no palm olein oil fat blend also allows for excellent calcium absorption for strong bones.

The formula also contains no artificial growth hormones and is non-GMO.

This formula comes in a pre-mixed bottle so it is great for on the go and late night feedings or you can also purchase in a powder.

Pros

• 5 HMO prebiotics that are structurally identical to those in breast milk
• No palm olein oil
• No artificial growth hormones
• Non-GMO
• Trusted brand
• Widely available

Cons

• Pre-mixed bottles might not be suitable for everyday use, however a powder form is available

5. Pure Bliss By Similac Infant Formula Powder

Similac Pure Bliss Infant Formula Powder is another Similac formula modelled after breast milk.

When it comes to a natural baby milk formula, Pure Bliss is one of the best options on the market.

Made with milk from Grass-Fed Cows, it has no artificial growth hormones, antibiotics, or palm olein oil. It also free from artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives.

Best of all it is non-GMO and gluten-free. It also contains added iron and calcium.

This formula is designed to simulate the nutrition found in breast milk and is suitable for parents looking for a more natural formula.

In terms of taste, this formula has a milder flavor than some of the other formulas mentioned above, but it has been carefully modeled after breast milk.

It is another option that features ingredients that occur naturally within breast milk, such as DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) and ARA (arachidonic acid) fatty acids.

Pros

• Milk from Grass-Fed Cows
• Free from artificial dyes, flavors, and preservatives
• Gluten-free
• Contains iron and calcium
• No antibiotics and no palm olein oil
• Non-GMO

Cons

• Not suitable for babies that have galactosemia

6. Happy Baby Organic Infant Formula

Happy Baby is an American-based company that specializes in making organic baby food. Their products are 100% organic and contain only certified organic ingredients.

All of these products are also gluten-free. They use only high-quality ingredients and do not add anything unnatural to the formula.

One of their most popular products is their Happy Baby Organic Infant Formula.

This product is specifically designed to mimic breast milk. It is made with real vitamins and minerals that are similar to what you would find in breast milk.

The Happy Baby formula also contains healthy prebiotics- GOS (galactooligosaccharides) and FOS (fructooligosaccharides).

It is a great choice if you want to feed your baby a nutritious diet while avoiding unnecessary chemicals.

Pros

• Certified USDA organic
• Non-GMO
• Reduced lactose content
• Chock-full of vitamins and minerals
• Contains naturally occurring ingredients found in breast milk

Cons

• Can be a little expensive

7. Earth’s Best Organic Dairy Infant Powder Formula

Earth’s Best is a company that makes all of its formulas using only certified organic ingredients.

They claim that they have created a formula that mimics the nutrition found in breast milk, such as Omega-6 ARA fatty acids and Omega-3 DHA, which are known to aid with the development of eye and brain development.

It is also full of iron, which is a particularly important ingredient when it comes to the healthy physical and mental growth of babies.

This formula is also incredibly easy for little ones to digest for babies, particularly in their first 12 months.

The formula does not taint this natural taste with any additional ingredients, either, such as additional corn syrup solids. 

Earth’s Best uses a unique blend of enzymes to make sure that the formula tastes just like breast milk. They offer a variety of different formulas, including a powdered version of their original formula. 

Pros

• All certified organic
• Made with only certified organic ingredients
• Free of non-organic corn syrup solids, additives, or preservatives
• Includes naturally occurring nutrients that are usually found in breast milk.

Cons

• Can be expensive

8. Enfamil NeuroPro

If you’re looking for a formula that tastes similar to breast milk, but also comes with the added benefit of promoting optimal brain development then Enfamil NeuroPro is a formula you may want to consider!

This formula is thoughtfully enriched with essential nutrients crucial for nurturing cognitive growth during the critical early stages of life.

Enfamil NeuroPro comes with MFGM, which is the intricate lipid structure also found in breast milk. MFGM is renowned for its pivotal role in fostering brain development and bolstering cognitive abilities in growing infants.

The formula is further fortified with DHA, an omega-3 fatty acid renowned for its significance in brain development, particularly in nurturing the expansion of the cerebral cortex.

Enfamil NeuroPro also meticulously blends proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals, creating a harmonious nutritional composition that is vital for robust growth and development.

The NeuroPro formula is suitable for newborns up until the age of 12 months.

I love that the NeuroPro formula also comes in a NeuroPro Gentlease blend which may be beneficial for babies with sensitivities.

You may also like these posts on the differences between Enfamil Enspire Vs Neuropro and Enfamil Gentlease Vs NeuroPro.

Pros:

• Contains MFGM for potential cognitive benefits
• Fortified with DHA, a critical component for brain growth
• Offers a balanced nutritional profile
• Suited for infants from birth to 12 months

Cons:

• Some babies might have individual sensitivities or preferences that differ from this formula
• Is more expensive than other Enfamil formulas

Buyers Guide on Formula that Tastes like Breast Milk

Now that we have looked at some of the best options of baby formula that offer a taste similar to breast milk, let’s now look at some of the factors to consider when choosing the right baby formula for your little one.

Taste

This article is all about the formulas that have a similar taste to breast milk because of how much your little one will crave that natural, comforting taste.

Look for a formula that has as close a taste to breast milk as possible. 

This can be a little difficult without actually tasting it yourself (but by all means, you are welcome to do that if you so choose!) so do your research to make sure that the formula that you choose offers a taste that naturally replicates the comforting taste of breast milk for your baby. 

I think it is also important to keep in mind that every baby is unique, and their taste preferences can vary. While selecting a formula that mimics breast milk’s taste is beneficial, it’s important to be prepared for the possibility that your baby may still have individual taste preferences and reject the formula you choose.

Nutritional Composition

Beyond taste, I believe it’s imperative to examine the nutritional content of the formula.

By reviewing the nutritional content you to ascertain the authenticity of a formula’s commitment to replicating breast milk’s taste and nutritional complexity.

Within the ingredients list lies a wealth of information that can offer insight into the formula’s quality, nutritional value, and its potential to provide an experience akin to breastfeeding.

One key indicator of a formula’s dedication to resembling breast milk’s natural composition is the presence of certain components.

Here’s a closer look at some of these components and their role in contributing to the formula’s taste resemblance:

MFGM (Milk Fat Globule Membrane): MFGM is a complex lipid structure found in breast milk. It’s not only a source of healthy fats but is also associated with various cognitive and immune benefits. The inclusion of MFGM in a formula signifies a concerted effort to replicate the intricate composition of breast milk.

Prebiotics and Probiotics: Breast milk contains natural prebiotics that foster the growth of beneficial gut bacteria in infants. Similarly, some formulas include prebiotics and probiotics to promote a healthy gut environment in babies. These components not only aid digestion but also contribute to the formula’s overall nutritional value.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids (DHA and ARA): Omega-3 fatty acids, particularly DHA (Docosahexaenoic Acid) and ARA (Arachidonic Acid), are vital for brain and vision development in infants. The presence of these fatty acids in a formula suggests an intent to offer comprehensive nutrition akin to breast milk.

Nucleotides: Nucleotides are the building blocks of DNA and RNA. They play a role in various physiological processes, including immune function and cellular repair. Some formulas incorporate nucleotides to enhance their nutritional profile, mirroring breast milk’s content.

Lactose: Breast milk naturally contains lactose, a carbohydrate that provides energy and supports brain development. Formulas that use lactose as a primary carbohydrate source aim to replicate this aspect of breast milk’s composition.

Vitamins and Minerals: A comprehensive blend of essential vitamins and minerals contributes to the formula’s nutritional completeness. These components are pivotal for an infant’s growth and development.

By meticulously analyzing the ingredients list for these components, you can discern the formula’s alignment with breast milk’s composition and taste.

However, it’s important to remember that while these ingredients contribute to the formula’s nutritional complexity, no formula can replicate every nuanced aspect of breast milk.

That said, I also highly recommend looking at other added ingredients to ensure that you are happy with their inclusion. This may be ingredients such as artificial sweeteners, flavorings, GMOs, palm oil, and so on.

Variants for Specific Needs

Just because a formula mimics breast milk, doesn’t mean it will be suitable for your baby. This is especially true if they have sensitives such as a lactose intolerance.

The good news is, many formula brands offer variants tailored to specific needs, such as sensitivity or fussiness.

You will need to consider whether your baby has any unique dietary requirements or discomfort that need to be addressed by a specialized formula variant.

I highly recommend consulting with your pediatrician if you have any concerns as they can provide personalized recommendations based on your baby’s health, growth, and any specific nutritional needs.

Texture and Consistency

While taste is a significant factor, the texture and consistency of the formula can also impact your baby’s acceptance.

Some babies might prefer a texture similar to breast milk, while others might adapt better to different consistencies.

So again, the texture and consistency is a factor you should consider when choosing a formula that tastes like breastmilk.

Price

Having a budget set up and adhering to it is another necessity that you need to consider when choosing the best baby formula for you or your little one.

More expensive doesn’t necessarily mean better quality, so don’t just automatically pick out the priciest formula and expect it to work wonders. 

Establish a budget and thoroughly research the various baby formula brands that are out there, and you should be able to find one that suits your price range whilst also suiting your little one’s needs. 

Age Compatibility

Another reason why you need to pay attention to the compatibility of the baby formula is that it can affect the health of your baby.

Some formulas are made for specific ages, while others are meant for children who are older than their stated age range. 

For example, if you are using a formula for an infant, then you shouldn’t be using it for toddlers and vice versa. This ties back in with our point about ingredients. 

So when choosing a formula, ensure that it is age appropriate for your child.

FAQs on Formula That Tastes Similar To Breast Milk

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• Best formula for colic and gas
• Best formula for constipation and gas
• Best formula for spit up and gas
• Best Lactose Free Formula

Final Thoughts on Best Tasting Baby Formula

Finding a formula for a baby that is use to the taste of breast milk isn’t always easy, but thankfully there are some great option as I have listed above.

Just remember it may take a bit of trial and error to find a formula your baby.

I hope our guide has been helpful in finding the best formula like breast milk that your baby will love!