Top Baby Formulas for Infants 0-6 Months

The first six months of a baby's life are a whirlwind of growth and development, and nutrition plays a pivotal role in this crucial period. In the United States, an astounding three out of four infants rely on baby formula, whether exclusively or in combination with breastfeeding, as their source of nourishment. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) vigilantly oversees the regulation of all infant formulas marketed in the U.S., ensuring they meet strict criteria for the essential nutrients needed for healthy infant growth and development.

But here's the catch: navigating the labyrinth of baby formula options can be a daunting task, especially for sleep-deprived parents. Prices fluctuate, and additional ingredients vary from brand to brand. Fear not, for we've embarked on a mission to demystify the world of baby formulas by analyzing over 80 products, helping you make the best choice for your little one.

Our Top Picks for Milk Formulas for 0-6 Months Old Babies

1. Up & Up Infant Formula With Iron

Rating: 5.0/5

Price: $0.57 per ounce

Type: Powder

Serving Size: 35 ounces

The Up & Up Infant Formula With Iron takes the top spot on our list. With a cost of just $0.57 per ounce, it's not only economical but also nutritious. Available in a convenient powder form, this formula provides an excellent foundation for your baby's early months.

2. Up & Up Advantage Infant Formula with Iron

Rating: 5.0/5

Price: $0.79 per ounce

Type: Powder

Serving Size: 35 ounces

For parents seeking a balance between affordability and quality, the Up & Up Advantage Infant Formula with Iron is a stellar choice. Priced at $0.79 per ounce, it offers the essential nutrients your baby needs in a convenient powder format.

3. Up & Up Complete Comfort Infant Formula With Iron

Rating: 4.8/5

Price: $0.93 per ounce

Type: Powder

Serving Size: 29.8 ounces

Up & Up Complete Comfort Infant Formula With Iron, with a rating of 4.8/5, is another great option. While it comes at a slightly higher cost of $0.93 per ounce, it provides the necessary nourishment in a powder form that's easy to prepare.

4. Enfamil Infant Formula

Rating: 4.7/5

Price: $1.37 per ounce

Types: Powder and ready-to-feed

Serving Sizes: 21.2 ounces (powder), 29.4 ounces (powder), 32 ounces (ready-to-feed)

Enfamil Infant Formula boasts a rating of 4.7/5, making it a solid choice. It's available in both powder and ready-to-feed formats, offering flexibility to parents. However, it comes at a slightly higher price point of $1.37 per ounce.

5. Up & Up Gentle Infant Formula With Iron

Rating: 4.7/5

Price: $0.60 per ounce

Type: Powder

Serving Size: 33.2 ounces

The Up & Up Gentle Infant Formula With Iron earns a rating of 4.7/5, thanks to its affordability at $0.60 per ounce. This powder formula provides essential nutrients for your baby's development.

6. Member's Mark Infant Formula With Iron

Rating: 4.7/5

Price: $0.48 per ounce

Type: Powder

Serving Size: 48 ounces

For budget-conscious parents, the Member's Mark Infant Formula With Iron is a fantastic choice. With a price tag of just $0.48 per ounce and a rating of 4.7/5, it offers excellent value.

7. Parent's Choice Tender Infant Formula With Iron

Rating: 4.7/5

Price: $0.62 per ounce

Type: Powder

Serving Size: 32.2 ounces

The Parent's Choice Tender Infant Formula With Iron combines affordability with quality, earning a rating of 4.7/5. At $0.62 per ounce, it provides essential nutrition for your baby.

8. Similac 360 Total Care Infant Formula

Rating: 4.6/5

Price: $1.38 per ounce

Types: Powder and ready-to-feed

Serving Sizes: 30.8 ounces (powder), 8 ounces (ready-to-feed)

Similac 360 Total Care Infant Formula earns a rating of 4.6/5 and is available in both powder and ready-to-feed formats. It offers comprehensive nutrition but comes at a higher price of $1.38 per ounce.

9. Gerber Good Start GentlePro Powder Infant Formula

Rating: 4.6/5

Price: $1.14 per ounce

Types: Powder, liquid, and ready-to-feed

Serving Sizes: 20 ounces (powder), 32 ounces (powder), 8.1 ounces (liquid), 8.45 ounces (ready-to-feed)

The Gerber Good Start GentlePro Powder Infant Formula, with a rating of 4.6/5, offers versatility with options in powder, liquid, and ready-to-feed forms. However, it's on the higher end in terms of cost at $1.14 per ounce.

10. Enfamil NeuroPro Infant Formula

Rating: 4.6/5

Price: $1.40 per ounce

Types: Powder or liquid

Serving Sizes: 20.7 ounces, 31.4 ounces, 36.4 ounces (powder), 2 ounces, 6 ounces, 8 ounces, 32 ounces (liquid)

The Enfamil NeuroPro Infant Formula, with a rating of 4.6/5, is available in both powder and liquid formats. It offers comprehensive nutrition but comes at a higher price of $1.40 per ounce.

Choosing the Best Baby Formula of 2023: Our Methodology

To compile our list of the best baby formulas for 2023, our editorial team at Forbes Health rigorously evaluated 80 baby formula products. We considered factors such as price per ounce, the nutritional profile, and the available formats to determine the star ratings of each product.

Unlocking the Mystery of Baby Formula: What Is It?

The Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act defines infant formula as "a food which purports to be or is represented for special dietary use solely as a food for infants by reason of its simulation of human milk or its suitability as a complete or partial substitute for human milk." In simpler terms, baby formula is the primary source of nutrition for infants during their first 12 months of life, especially for those who are not breastfeeding.

What's Inside Baby Formula?

A typical cow's milk-based infant formula contains key ingredients such as cow's milk protein, lactose, minerals from cow's milk, vegetable oils, iron, and essential fatty acids like DHA and ARA. Some formulas may also include prebiotics and probiotics to promote gut health