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If you're looking for a hypoallergenic formula for your baby, you've likely come across two popular options: HiPP HA vs. Nutramigen. In this parent-friendly guide, I will explore these two infant formula options, outlining their differences, the pros and cons of each, and what to consider when choosing between these two formulas for your baby.
If you've been searching for a hypoallergenic formula, your baby likely has already shown some of the signs of needing an HA formula: discomfort when eating, reflux, gas, constipation, and more - all of which can be so stressful to deal with!
I've heard from many of you that my guide to the best hypoallergenic formulas has made it easier to choose between all of the options out there, but that figuring out whether HiPP HA or Nutramigen is the right choice can be daunting!
I was lucky enough to have two kids who didn't have any allergies, but I have talked to so many parents who are confused about how to pick between HiPP HA and Nutramigen because they're not exactly an apples-to-apples comparison. So that's why I created this guide, based on my extensive knowledge as a parent, certified health coach and nutritionist, and hundreds of hours working with families and researching infant formula. Let's dive in!
A Disclaimer & Methodology
As a board certified health coach and certified nutritionist, I support products and ingredients that are rooted in science and are evidence-based. Using my background in nutrition, along with extensive research (see below for details), consultations with experts, and my own personal experience giving my two kids formula, I have created this guide comparing HiPP HA and Nutramigen.
My recommendations are based on:- Over 200 hours of extensive research
- Speaking with thousands of parents on what has worked for their children
- Reviewing both manufacturers' claims and ingredients lists
- Speaking with doctors and pediatricians
- Reviewing countless articles and peer-reviewed studies
Though I may receive a commission (at no extra expense to you) if you purchase through some of the affiliate links provided, I only recommend products I've researched, evaluated, consulted experts on, and would feel comfortable giving to my own two children.
As always, I only share products that are the highest quality and that can help you and your family the most. By purchasing any of these products from the links below, you help keep this blog running, so thanks for your support!
Keep in mind that every baby & situation is different, so when it comes to choosing a baby formula, please consult with your pediatrician first before starting or switching to a new formula. My recommendations are not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
What Are Different Types Of Hypoallergenic Formula?
Let's start by looking at the differences between hypoallergenic formulas and comparing the two popular brands, HiPP HA and Nutramigen.
Hypoallergenic baby formulas are specifically designed for infants allergic to cow's milk or cow's milk protein, commonly found in regular infant formulas.
These formulas are categorized into three types based on how their proteins are processed: partially hydrolyzed, extensively hydrolyzed, and amino acid-based.
Partially Hydrolyzed Formulas
Partially hydrolyzed formulas are designed with proteins that have been partially broken down, making them easier to digest for infants who may have trouble digesting whole proteins.
HiPP HA formula contains partially hydrolyzed whey protein, about 86-87% derived from organic skim milk.
Extensively Hydrolyzed Formulas
Extensively hydrolyzed formulas contain proteins that are extensively broken down into smaller pieces, which makes them less likely to trigger an allergic reaction.
Nutramigen is a formula that contains hydrolyzed casein protein from milk. At least 90% of the protein is broken down into smaller pieces.
Amino Acid-Based Formulas
Amino acid-based formulas are the least likely to cause an allergic reaction since they contain fully broken-down proteins into individual amino acids.
Neither HiPP HA nor Nutramigen meets this requirement.When Should You Choose Hypoallergenic Formula For Your Baby?
If your baby shows a sensitivity or allergy to cow's milk protein, such as colic, reflux, gas, other digestive issues, or eczema, I recommend talking to your pediatrician to see if switching to a hypoallergenic formula may help.
Hypoallergenic formulas may help ease the symptoms of a milk protein allergy or sensitivity, because, as mentioned above, they're made with hydrolyzed proteins, which are broken down into smaller pieces that are less likely to trigger an allergic reaction.
In both the United States and Europe, parents have access to a variety of hypoallergenic formulas for infant nutrition. These formulas are designed to offer complete infant nutrition, including all the nutrients needed for healthy growth and development, while being gentle on your baby's sensitive digestive system.
Comparing These Two Brands: Formula Overview
Brand Reputation: Enfamil Nutramigen Vs. HiPP HA
Nutramigen Reputation
Nutramigen is a baby formula manufactured by Enfamil, a well-known and respected brand in the industry. It has been around since 1942 - that's 82 years! Because it's manufactured in the US, it is also regulated by the FDA. This formula is hypoallergenic and specifically designed to manage colic, resulting from a cow's milk protein allergy. Relief is promised within 48 hours.
Nutramigen has always had a good reputation in the United States as being a reputable brand, whose formulas that can reduce and manage cow's milk protein allergy symptoms.
However, in December 2023, thousands of cans of Nutramigen had to be recalled due to Cronobacter sakazakii, a bacteria that can cause severe infections. This is the second time in less than a year that the manufacturer, Reckitt/Mead Johnson Nutrition, has had to recall their product ( source).
Since there is already a significant shortage of baby formula ( source), these recalls are causing families to be concerned about the oversight in the formula industry. You can find more information about the recall on the company's website at enfamil.com.
HiPP HA Reputation
HiPP is a well-known and respected European brand with over 50 years of experience producing high-quality organic baby formula. It is widely recognized for its commitment to sustainable farming practices and using only the finest ingredients that meet the highest organic standards. HiPP has built a loyal following among parents seeking a healthier alternative to conventional baby formulas.
Their extensive range of products includes various infant milk formula options and a variety of complementary foods for babies and toddlers. All are carefully formulated to provide optimal nutrition for infants and young children.
The HiPP HA line is a specialized formula for babies' sensitivities to milk proteins. This formula is made with hydrolyzed protein, which makes it easier for babies to digest and has been clinically proven to reduce allergy symptoms. The HiPP HA line has received many positive reviews from parents who have seen significant improvements in their babies' digestion and allergy symptoms.
HiPP HA Vs. Nutramigen: Nutrition
Let's take a look at how HiPP HA and Nutramigen compare when it comes to their ingredients and nutrition. I'm going to review both of these formulas' protein content, carbohydrate source, the types of fats used, and whether any other special ingredients (probiotics, prebiotics, etc.) are included.
Protein Content
As mentioned above, if a baby has an allergy or sensitivity to cow's milk protein, they can be given partially or extensively hydrolyzed formulas. Hydrolysis involves breaking down the proteins into smaller components or peptides. The degree of hydrolysis determines whether a formula is partially or extensively hydrolyzed.
Hipp HAHipp HA is a formula that contains partially hydrolyzed whey protein derived from organic skim milk. The partial hydrolysis process breaks down around 86-87% of cows' milk proteins.
NutramigenNutramigen features extensively hydrolyzed casein protein derived from milk. The extensive hydrolyzation process breaks down over 90% of the cow's milk proteins.
Carbohydrate Content
Many baby formulas contain lactose and/or corn syrup as the primary carbohydrate, but it's important to note that not all carbohydrates are the same. Lactose is a natural sugar in milk. But corn syrup is a sweetener from corn starch, essentially added sugar.
Although lactose and corn syrup can provide energy for babies to grow and develop, lactose is the preferred carbohydrate source for infant nutrition. This is because it's the primary carb source in breast milk, easily digestible, and provides a steady energy supply.
Conversely, corn syrup is a highly processed sweetener that, while safe in small amounts, may not be the best option for your baby. (Learn More: Corn Syrup In Baby Formula).
Hipp HAThe primary carbohydrate source in HiPP HA is lactose, similar to the one found in breast milk. As a result, HiPP HA closely mimics the natural composition of breast milk and provides an easily digestible carbohydrate source for babies.
NutramigenNutramigen relies on corn syrup solids as its primary carbohydrate source. This differs from the lactose found in breast milk and Hipp HA, but corn syrup solids can provide energy without aggravating potential sensitivities related to lactose intolerance.
However, this carb source does count as added sugars, and may impact your child's eating habits in the future ( source). Also, some studies have suggested that infants who received formula with corn syrup-based carbohydrates had a higher risk of additional adverse health impacts, but this research is still ongoing ( source).
Fats And Oils
Breast milk and formula milk both contain fats, proteins, carbohydrates, and many other nutrients essential for the baby's growth and development. Fat contributes almost half of the calories in breast milk and formula, providing the energy required for the baby's development.
Hipp HAHipp HA's fat content is derived from organic vegetable oils, such as palm, rapeseed, and sunflower. These oils provide the essential fatty acids for optimal infant brain and eye development.
NutramigenNutramigen's fat source combines non-organic vegetable oils, including palm olein, coconut, soy, and high-oleic sunflower.
Probiotics And Prebiotics
Prebiotics are non-digestible food fibers that stimulate the growth of good bacteria in your baby's gut. (Learn More: Prebiotics For Kids). At the same time, probiotics are live microorganisms that provide health benefits when consumed in adequate amounts. (Learn More: Probiotics For Baby Constipation).
Hipp HAHipp HA formula has a special ingredient called galactooligosaccharides (GOS), which are prebiotic fibers similar to those found in breast milk. These fibers help promote the growth of good gut bacteria, which in turn helps maintain balanced gut flora.
The Hipp HA formula also contains a natural probiotic lactic acid culture called Lactobacillus fermentum, initially extracted from breast milk. Combining prebiotics and probiotics helps support the baby's immune system and digestion, keeping your little one healthy.
NutramigenNutramigen is more effective than other extensively hydrolyzed protein formulas because it contains LGG® (Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG), the most researched probiotic for managing allergies in infants. LGG® helps to manage cow's milk protein allergy and promotes the growth of a balanced gut flora that enhances immune health. Nutramigen doesn't contain prebiotics.
Cost: HiPP HA Vs. Nutramigen
In my research, I've found that most hypoallergenic formulas are more expensive than their standard formula counterparts, primarily due to the specialized ingredients needed for these formulas.
When it comes to the cost of Hipp HA and Nutramigen, HiPP HA is the more affordable choice. Hipp HA is typically around $2 per ounce. On the other hand, Nutramigen may cost more, at around $3 per ounce.
Formula Availability
HiPP HA Availability
While HiPP HA is made in Europe, there are many reputable distributors of this formula that will ship to the US! I have reviewed many of these distributors and have found that this European baby formula website - TheMilkyBox - is a reliable source to purchase from, and HiPP HA is always available on their website.
I personally ordered from them and loved the convenience of having HiPP delivered straight to my doorstep in all stages. I felt relieved that it was so easy to get formula, knowing my baby's nutritional needs were well taken care of without leaving the comfort of my home.
Nutramigen Availability
Nutramigen can be purchased through traditional retail channels in the United States and is available at Amazon, Target, and Walmart. However, due to the shutdown of the largest Abbott plant in the country in 2022 and subsequent bacterial contamination, Nutramigen may be less readily available and is sometimes out of stock.
Summary: Differences Between HiPP HA Vs. Nutramigen
Availability
Easily found at TheMilkyBox.com and delivered to your door, always in stock.
Available to purchase on Amazon, Target, and Walmart, but has had issues with being out of stock due to formula shortages and recalls.
I'm thinking of switching to a hypoallergenic baby formula. How do I do it?
Check out this quick guide to help get your family started on switching baby formula.
How quickly does hypoallergenic formula work?
Hypoallergenic formulas can start to relieve symptoms as quickly as 48 hours, with most babies finding the most comfort within 2-3 weeks.
Is HiPP HA better than Nutramigen?
The answer is, it depends on the needs of your baby! If your baby has a mild or moderate allergy or sensitivity, no lactose allergy, and you're looking for a more affordable formula with organic ingredients and no corn syrup solids, then I would recommend trying HiPP HA first. But if your baby is allergic to lactose and / or has a severe cow's milk protein allergy, Nutramigen might be the better choice.
Final Thoughts
Hydrolyzed protein formulas are all different, but HiPP HA and Nutramigen are two of the more popular options. Both have pros and cons, and depending on what your baby's specific allergies are, either can be the right choice.
Personally, if my baby had a cow's milk sensitivity or a moderate allergy, I would choose HiPP HA because it has a stronger brand reputation, is more affordable, has higher quality, organic ingredients, and no corn syrup solids.
However, if my baby had a severe lactose allergy or severe CMPA, HiPP HA may not be broken down enough, and I may have no choice but to use Nutramigen, which is designed for babies with more severe allergies.
Regardless, if your baby has a sensitive digestive system or is showing signs of allergies, I would recommend that you talk to your child's pediatrician about choosing a formula that contains hydrolyzed protein.
