How To Choose An Organic Baby Formula (USA): A Basic Parent’s Guide 2025
I get asked about formulas all the time in my pediatric office. The variety of options are overwhelming. The current trend for many parents is to select an organic baby formula, though that is not always necessary and not the right choice for every family due to cost, or availability. Don’t fall into to guilt-trap if the organic options aren’t right fit for your family.
When it comes to organic formula- where do you start?
There are some great options out there, but how do you know which one is best for your baby? These brands below are US based with some ingredients sourced from overseas in some. This is not a comprehensive list, as new options come to the market frequently. The key is to find a formula that you are comfortable with and your baby can tolerate it well.
Also, see this link for European formula differences.
Key Considerations for Selecting Organic Baby Formula
These formulas are based in the US with easier availability than some overseas brands. Look into each brand individually and where you can purchase them. Some offer subscriptions and will ship to your home, some will be available from local grocers with home delivery as well.
- Certification and Purity
- Look for USDA Organic certification
- Ensure the formula is free from:
- Synthetic pesticides
- Artificial preservatives
- Growth hormones
- Antibiotics
- Ingredient Quality
- Prioritize brands that use:
- Organic milk from grass-fed cows
- Minimally processed ingredients
- No artificial colors or flavors
- No corn syrup or unnecessary additives
- Prioritize brands that use:
- Top Recommended Organic Baby Formula Brands
- Bobbie Organic Infant Formula
- Meets strict organic standards
- No GMO ingredients
- Balanced nutritional profile
- Whole Milk Based
- No Corn Syrup or Palm Oil
- Earth’s Best Organic Infant Formula
- USDA Organic certified
- Made with organic lactose
- No artificial preservatives
- No added corn syrup
- ByHeart Organic Infant Formula
- Sourced from organic dairy farms
- Whole Milk based
- Contains essential nutrients
- No synthetic ingredients
- Pure Bliss Organic Formula by Similac
- USDA Organic certified
- No GMO ingredients
- No corn syrup
- made with organic lactose
- Bobbie Organic Infant Formula
- Safety Screening
- Research brand’s manufacturing practices
- Check for:
- Third-party testing
- Rigorous quality control
- Transparent sourcing
- Nutritional Composition
- Ensure formula matches:
- Your baby’s age
- Specific nutritional needs
- Pediatrician recommendations
- Ensure formula matches:
Nonfat milk, with added sunflower oil and coconut oil to replace the typical palm oil. Still organic ingredients.
Oragnic ingredients, but does use nonfat milk and adds organic palm oil. No added corn syrup.
Sourced from organic dairy farms, whole milk based, no synthetic ingredients
Whole milk based, no GMO ingredients, no corn syrup or palm oil
US Organic Infant Formula Comparison Chart
| Brand | Key Ingredients | DHA (Omega-3) | Formulations | Mixing Instructions | Other Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ByHeart | Organic milk protein, organic whey protein, organic vegetable oils (palm, coconut, safflower, sunflower), DHA, ARA, prebiotics (GOS), vitamins, and minerals | 0.3% (per 100 ml prepared) | – Stage 1 (0-6 months) – Stage 2 (6-12 months) | Mix 1 scoop with 1 fl. oz of water (temperature: 98.6°F). Stir until dissolved. | – 100% organic ingredients – Made in the USA – No palm oil in the Stage 1 formula – Higher protein content than many others |
| Pure Bliss by Similac | Organic milk protein, organic whey protein, organic vegetable oils (palm, coconut, soy, and sunflower), DHA, ARA, prebiotics (FOS), vitamins, and minerals | 0.32% (per 100 ml prepared) | – Stage 1 (0-12 months) | Mix 1 scoop per 2 fl. oz of water (temperature: 98.6°F). Stir well. | – Organic formula from the trusted Similac brand – No added sugars – Includes prebiotics for digestive health – DHA sourced from algae |
| Bobbie | Organic whole milk, organic whey protein, organic vegetable oils (palm, coconut, safflower, sunflower), DHA, ARA, prebiotics (GOS), vitamins, and minerals | 0.3% (per 100 ml prepared) | – Stage 1 (0-12 months) | Mix 1 scoop with 2 fl. oz of water (temperature: 98.6°F). Stir until dissolved. | – 100% organic formula – Made in the USA – No corn syrup or palm oil – Includes prebiotics for digestion – Designed for easier digestion |
| Earth’s Best | Organic milk protein, organic whey protein, organic vegetable oils (palm, coconut, safflower, sunflower), DHA, ARA, prebiotics (FOS), vitamins, and minerals | 0.3% (per 100 ml prepared) | – Stage 1 (0-6 months) – Stage 2 (6-12 months) – Stage 3 (12+ months) | Mix 1 scoop per 2 fl. oz of water (temperature: 98.6°F). Stir well. | – 100% organic ingredients – Certified USDA Organic – Includes prebiotics for digestive health – Made without artificial growth hormones or antibiotics |
Key Highlights:
- DHA Content: All four brands contain about 0.3% DHA (per 100 ml prepared), which is consistent with common organic formulas designed to support brain and eye development in infants.
- Organic Ingredients: All four formulas (ByHeart, Pure Bliss, Bobbie, and Earth’s Best) are 100% organic, using milk from cows fed organic feed and no synthetic pesticides or fertilizers.
- Prebiotics: All brands include prebiotics—GOS (Galacto-Oligosaccharides) or FOS (Fructo-Oligosaccharides)—which support digestive health and the development of beneficial gut bacteria.
- Palm Oil:
- ByHeart has no palm oil in its Stage 1 formula, while Bobbie and Earth’s Best have palm oil in their formulations, and Pure Bliss uses a combination of palm and coconut oil.
- Mixing Instructions: All brands suggest mixing one scoop of formula per a specific amount of water. The most common ratio is 1 scoop per 2 fl. oz of water, and it’s important to follow the specific temperature recommendations (usually around 98.6°F or 37°C) to maintain the integrity of the nutrients.
- Stage Options:
- Earth’s Best offers three stages: Stage 1 (0-6 months), Stage 2 (6-12 months), and Stage 3 (12+ months), catering to different stages of your baby’s development.
- ByHeart, Bobbie, and Pure Bliss typically offer one formulation for the first year (Stage 1) but are all suitable for newborns through 12 months.
- Protein Content:
- ByHeart has a slightly higher protein content compared to some other brands, which could be beneficial for some infants based on their developmental needs.
- Additional Features:
- Bobbie is designed to be particularly easy on digestion, with an emphasis on whole milk rather than skim milk.
- Pure Bliss includes DHA sourced from algae, which can be important for those who prefer a plant-based source for omega-3 fatty acids.
- Earth’s Best is known for being one of the more affordable organic options, while still maintaining high organic standards.
Summary:
- ByHeart: 100% organic, higher protein, no palm oil in Stage 1, prebiotics (GOS).
- Pure Bliss: 100% organic, DHA sourced from algae, prebiotics (FOS), no added sugars.
- Bobbie: 100% organic, no corn syrup or palm oil, prebiotics (GOS), easy digestion formula.
- Earth’s Best: 100% organic, affordable, prebiotics (FOS), multiple stages for different ages.
All of these formulas offer organic ingredients, DHA for brain development, and prebiotics for digestive health, but they vary in features like palm oil content, protein levels, and specific prebiotic types.
Red Flags to Watch Out For
- Formulas with added sugars
- Undefined “natural flavors”
- Lack of clear ingredient sourcing
- Absence of organic certification
Additional Tips
- Consult with your pediatrician before switching formulas
- Consider your baby’s individual digestive needs
- Start with small quantities when introducing a new formula
- Monitor your baby for any allergic reactions or digestive issues
Consultation and Personalization
Every baby is unique. While these guidelines provide a solid framework, individual nutritional needs vary. Always:
- Discuss formula choices with your pediatrician
- Consider your baby’s specific health requirements
- Be prepared to try different organic formula options
Safety Precautions
- Always prepare formula according to package instructions
- Use sterile bottles and equipment
- Check expiration dates
- Store formula properly
- Discard prepared formula that has been left out >1 hour
Emerging Trends in Organic Baby Formulas
- Increasing focus on organic, non-GMO formulas
- Growing demand for transparent ingredient sourcing
- More brands offering specialized organic options
Final Recommendations
- Prioritize USDA Organic certification
- Choose brands with transparent sourcing
- Focus on minimal, high-quality ingredients
- Consult healthcare professionals
- Monitor your baby’s response to the formula
Remember, the “safest” formula is one that:
- Meets strict organic standards
- Provides complete nutrition
- Agrees with your baby’s digestive system
By taking a careful, informed approach, you can select an organic formula that supports your baby’s health and development.
Here is another provider’s take on US Organic formulas.
Communicate with your own health care provider to know what the best option is for your child.
