Guide to Reviewing an Infant Formula Label and Selecting a Product
Aug 12, 2025
Choosing the best baby formula can feel overwhelming, but learning to read formula labels makes it easier. Here's a clear, step-by-step guide to help you confidently review any infant formula and select the best option for your baby.
Step 1: Select the Right Type of Formula
Before examining the label details, it's important to choose the appropriate type of formula for your baby's needs.
Infant Formula (Stage 1)
Suitable for: Healthy babies from birth until 12 months
Often labelled as: Stage 1
Key points: Infant formula products are always nutritionally suitable to be used for the entire 12-month period. However, many brands also have a follow-on formula product and recommend moving to this from 6-12 months.
Follow-on Formula (Stage 2)
Suitable for: Healthy babies from 6 months until 12 months
Often labelled as: Stage 2
Key points: Normally very similar to infant formula in the same brand, but with some minor nutritional adjustments. Note that not all infant formula brands have a follow-on formula product.
Specialty Infant Formula
Suitable for: Babies with specific health conditions, such as preterm birth, reflux, lactose intolerance, allergies, or metabolic disorders.
Key points: The labels should clearly state the condition for which the product is suitable. It is always best to seek guidance and diagnosis from a healthcare professional before using these formulas. Some of these products can be used under prescription, which significantly reduces the cost.
Step 2: Check the Age Indication
Look for: The age range on the front of the can (e.g., "from birth," "0 to 12months," "0–6 months," "6–12 months").
Step 3: Review the Protein
Find on label: Ingredient list and nutrition information panel
What to look for:
Protein source: Cow’s milk is the most common and recommended source for most babies unless allergies or cultural preferences apply. Other options include goat, soy, sheep, rice, or pea protein.
Protein level: Check the "protein per 100mL" value. Aim for a lower protein content (ideally around 1.3g/100mL), which is closer to breastmilk and may support healthier growth.
Step 4: Review the Fat
Find on label: Ingredient list and nutrition panel
What to look for: Most formulas contain a blend of vegetable oils. Some premium formulas specify the types of oils or add beneficial fats like DHA and AA.
Why it matters: All formulas must meet fat requirements, but added DHA/AA may offer extra benefits.
Step 5: Review the Carbohydrate Source
Find on label: Ingredient list
What to look for:
Lactose is the preferred carbohydrate (as in breastmilk) and is found in most formulas.
Alternatives like maltodextrin or glucose syrup are used in specialty or plant-based formulas
Why it matters: Lactose is ideal for most babies; alternatives are for specific needs.
Step 6: Identify Optional Nutrients and Ingredients
Find on label: Nutrition information panel and ingredient list
What to look for:
Optional nutrients or ingredients include: Choline, inositol, L-carnitine, taurine, nucleotides, lactoferrin, lutein, prebiotics (HMOs, GOS, FOS), and probiotics
For babies 0–6 months, choline, inositol, and L-carnitine are especially important and will soon be mandatory in all formulas
Why it matters: Although not considered essential, optional nutrients are added only if there's evidence for safety and benefit. Premium formulas may include more of these to try to more closely resemble the composition of breastmilk.
Step 7: Compare Unit Price and Value
Find on shelf or online: Most major retailers display the unit price per 100g for infant formula, either on the shelf label or in the product details online. This makes it easier to compare the true cost of different brands and sizes.
How to calculate unit price:
Price per 100g = (Price ÷ Can weight ) × 100
Example: If a can costs $25 and weighs 800g:
Big Savings: Formula prices can differ by over 300%, adding up to hundreds of dollars a year.
Better Value: Checking the unit price helps you get the best nutrition for your budget.
Clear Choices: Unit price lets you easily compare brands and sizes, so you're not misled by different sized packaging or marketing.
Tip: Look for the unit price label in-store or use online supermarket filters to sort formulas by price per 100g for quick comparisons.
Final Tips
Start simple: For most families, a basic, widely available infant formula is a great place to begin.
Premium options: If you want added optional nutrients, there are many premium choices—just compare ingredients & prices.
Specialty needs: Always consult your healthcare provider before choosing specialty formula.