The healthiest choice for your baby.

what makes European Formula better?

When it comes to choosing the best baby formula for your little one, it's essential to consider the quality and safety of the product. European baby formulas are renowned for their high standards and strict regulations, making them a healthier choice compared to American formulas. Let's delve into the reasons why.

ingredient regulations

European regulations have stricter guidelines when it comes to ingredients used in baby formulas. European Union regulations ban the use of certain additives, such as genetically modified organisms (GMOs), artificial sweeteners, corn syrups, and synthetic growth hormones. These regulations prioritize the use of natural and organic ingredients, ensuring a healthier and safer option for your baby.

Staged Formulas

In Europe, baby formulas are typically staged to cater to different developmental needs, and nutrition changes as the baby grows older. This is unlike the one-size-fits-all approach often seen in American formulas for ages 0-12 months.

European formulas are designed in stages—Stages PRE and 1 from birth, Stage 2 for older infants (6+ months), Stage 3 for younger toddlers (10+ months) and sometimes even a Stage 4 for toddlers over the age of 1.

This approach aligns more closely with the baby's changing nutritional requirements as they grow, ensuring they receive the right balance of nutrients at each stage of development. European regulations also prioritize adapting formulas to mimic the evolving composition of breast milk, emphasizing the importance of tailored nutrition for every phase. American formulas prioritize equal iron content in the 0-12 month stage, which may sometimes lead your baby to having green-colored stools.

HiPP: Metafolin® vs Folate

All baby formulas require the inclusion of folate (Vitamin B9). Folate is essential, and is used by the body to form normal red blood cells and certain amino acids. Most baby formulas use synthetic folic acid which needs to undergo enzymatic activation in order to be absorbed.


Many babies lack the ability to sufficiently absorb adequate amounts of Folate.


Unique to HiPP formulas is Metafolin®, which is derived from the naturally occurring folate form (5-MTHF) found in human breastmilk. Metafolin® is universally absorbable, and all babies can immediately utilize Metafolin® without the need for processing. This makes it readily available and gentler on the stomach


Read More on HiPP scientific services.

no corn syrups

Unlike many American baby formulas, European formulas do not contain corn syrup as a sweetener. Corn syrup has been linked to various health issues, including obesity and diabetes. European formulas use lactose and other mild starches as the primary carbohydrate source, which is easier for babies to digest and provides a more natural source of energy.

Animal welfare - no chemicals

The farms that HiPP and Holle use to source their organic milk ensure high standards of animal welfare.

For example, animals on Demeter-certified farms are treated with respect and care, allowing for natural behaviors. This includes access to the outdoors, humane living conditions, and organic, natural feed. The use of preventive antibiotics, pesticides, herbicides and synthetic hormones are strictly prohibited.

These strict standards ensure that the formulas are free from harmful substances, providing a safer and healthier option for your baby's delicate system.

stringent quality control

European baby formulas undergo rigorous testing and quality control measures to ensure they meet the highest standards. The European Union has strict regulations in place for the production, packaging, and labeling of baby formulas. This means you can have peace of mind knowing that the formula you choose for your baby has undergone thorough testing and meets the highest safety and quality standards.

Why Can't I purchase these formulas in North American Stores?

European baby formulas are not available in U.S. grocery stores primarily due to differing regulations and labeling standards between the U.S. and Europe. The FDA requires specific nutritional requirements, mainly on the inclusion of a significant amount of Iron for all infants between ages 0-12 months. While Iron is crucial for development, European standards don't align with the same mentality and offer staged formulas suitable for your baby's growing needs.

Overall, ingredient guidelines for European formulas are higher than those in the US, but despite being safe and highly regarded, they are unavailable locally in North American markets. Many parents, however, still seek out European formulas due to their high-quality ingredients and strict manufacturing standards.

the best choice for your baby

Overall, European baby formulas are a healthier choice for your little one compared to American formulas. Their strict regulations on ingredients, avoidance of harmful additives, and rigorous quality control measures make them a safer and more reliable option. When it comes to your baby's nutrition, it's crucial to choose a formula that prioritizes their health and well-being.

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