6 Different Milk types in Organic European Baby Formula

Finding the right nutrition for your baby, is less often a “one size fits all” deal. As we go through our journey in parenthood we encounter a world of new things with each child and we quickly learn that each baby is a world of their own. Nutritional needs can vary from baby to baby and preferences from parent to parent. If you have already decided to enter into the world of organic European baby formula, you will find yourself in a candy store of options. One of these options falls into the area of ‘“types of milk.” Here are 6 types of milk to look for in European organic baby formula and who usually consumes each one.

1. Whole Cow Milk 

Special brands such as Kendamil pride themselves in providing “whole cream” formulas. This means that they use the whole milk as it is derived naturally. They believe and stand by the studies that show whole milk has natural fats important to growth, much like the composition found in a mother’s breast milk. In the first 6 months, a mothers milk contains especially fatty contents that help form and support developing immune systems. However, whole milk formulas can sometimes sit heavier in some little bellies. Babies with underdeveloped digestive systems or lactose intolerances might not be able to reap the benefits of whole milk formulas.

2. Skimmed Cow Milk

Skimmed cow milk is the standard or the usual milk that is used in producing baby formulas. USA organic and non-organic, as well as the majority of European brand formulas, use skimmed milk. Skimmed milk has reduced fat from naturally occuring cow milk. Formulas are then fortified with nutrients, minerals, and supporting elements such as prebiotics and probiotics to allow for easier digestion. However, what is added depends on a per brand basis. Skimmed milk is usually lighter on a baby’s digestive system. 

3. Hydrolyzed Protein Milk

Hydrolyzed protein milk is cow based; however, it is formulated for little bellies who have an intolerance for the cow milk protein. It helps by breaking down the proteins already in the milk to make them into smaller molecules. These molecules that are normally hard to digest for a little one with a CMP intolerance can now digest it much easier because of their smaller size. Typically you will find prebiotics and probiotics within these types of formulas as well, to further aid in the digestion process.

4. A2 Milk

A2 milk helps little ones with cow milk protein intolerance, which should not be confused with a cow milk protein allergy. An intolerance does not have an adverse reaction to the extent an allergy does; therefore A2, much like the hydrolyzed protein, is still animal milk or lactose. This animal milk comes from special breeds of cows for the A2 specific formulas. Mammals such as goats naturally have the A2 protein as well, but they have their own special formula brand. 

A2 cow milk formulas are a great option for babies with a CMP intolerance because the protein believed to cause the most discomfort, the A1 protein, is not present. This means when babies digest the lactose, the irritable parts of the A1 protein are unable to give that added discomfort. Simply put, babies (and adults) digest A2 milk easier.

5. Skimmed/Non Fat Goat Milk

Goat milk is an excellent alternative for babies who have a cow milk protein allergy. Goat’s milk does not have the same composition as cow’s milk, allowing those who have the CMP allergy to get wholesome nutrition from an animal derived milk instead of a plant based alternative option. Skimmed milk again in this case is the standard. 

6. Whole Goat Milk 

Kendamil formula once again offers the great benefit of goat milk while using the whole cream promise. Goat’s milk naturally is lighter than cow’s milk and the whole milk option is excellent for parents looking for more fatty nutrition to closely mimic the fat composition in mother’s milk.

Finding the right formula for your baby is a huge weight off the shoulders of any parent. If the standards you have been reviewing are not what you or your baby are looking for, having a variety of options is ideal. Healthy European formula options help parents and medical professionals make an educated and guided decision. Regardless of the reason for your interest in European formulas, whether it’s due to a dietary intolerance or a preference for certain characteristics, each of these 6 milk types have their unique benefit in supporting your baby through their growth and development.