Many parents wonder if feeding their babies store brand formula is somehow cheating them out of getting the proper nutrition. However, in comparing Similac, a major formula company, with the Parent's Choice brand, the generic alternative offered by Wal-Mart, there is very little to distinguish one from the other.
Types
There are three main ways that formula is prepared and sold. The most popular is powdered. Parents simply mix it with water when ready to serve. It can also be mixed and stored for later. Another type is concentrated formula, which is also mixed with water when ready to serve. The last type is pre-mixed. This type is usually sold in a can and is just shaken and then served. Whatever type parents choose, they should be sure to follow the serving directions closely so that calorie and nutrient requirements are met.
Nutrition
In terms of being nutritionally sound, both Parent's Choice and Similac formula have nearly identical percentages of vitamins and minerals as well as DHA and AHA, two lipids that experts believe may contribute to higher IQ scores. Since Parent's Choice simply copies Similac's product, there is no specific benefit to choosing the Similac over the store brand.
Varieties
Within each brand are several varieties of formula that can be chosen based on a child's specific nutritional needs. Both brands offer a milk-based and a soy-based formula. Soy is often chosen for babies with a milk intolerance or allergy. In addition, both Parent's Choice and Similac offer a variety of formula for babies who spit-up frequently and have other stomach issues. Finally, parents can also purchase a formula designed for toddlers. Because toddlers are notoriously picky eaters, many parents use this variety as a back-up to be sure their growing children are getting the calories and nutrients they need. Similac does offer some specific varieties for other issues that can arise for babies, such as prematurity, that Parent's Choice does not.
Price
Parent's Choice is a much less expensive alternative to Similac. Since the generic brand copies the Similac brand, they cut out the testing and research expenses and can then pass those on to the consumer. Parent's Choice formula generally costs about half what Similac does, which can save a family hundreds of dollars a year.
Breast Milk
Most experts agree that breast milk is the best choice for most babies. However, for a variety of reasons, some mothers choose not to or cannot nurse. Formula is a healthy alternative. Babies who are bottle fed still have the same chances at a long and healthy life as breastfed babies. The advantages to breastfeeding are that the mother's antibodies help the baby's immune system, breastfeeding allows bonding between mother and infant and it is free and convenient. Mothers who bottle feed should not feel guilty--they are still giving their baby what they need. Parents should always talk to their pediatrician to determine the best choice for their baby.
