Total: $0.00
Baby can't wait?
(exclusive offer)
Fact Checked
Holle vs. Similac: A Comprehensive Ingredient Comparison
46 hours of research 4 minute read
" Holle baby formulas are known for their organic and biodynamic ingredients, while Similac provides a range of options to meet various nutritional needs. "
When choosing the best baby formula for your little one, two prominent names often come up: Holle formula and the Similac formula. Both brands are well-regarded and have a loyal following among parents. In this blog, we will delve into the similarities and differences between these two brands, focusing on their ingredients, certifications, and available varieties. This comprehensive guide will help you make an informed decision about which formula is best suited for your baby’s needs.
Similarities Between Holle and Similac
| Feature | Holle Formula | Similac Formula |
|---|---|---|
| Organic Ingredients | Yes | Yes (for some products) |
| GMO-Free | Yes | Yes (for some products) |
| DHA and ARA | Yes | Yes |
| Lactose-Based | Yes | Yes |
| Prebiotics and Probiotics | Yes (in some products) | Yes (in some products) |
| Multiple Stages Available | Yes | No |
| Available in Goat Milk | Yes | No |
| Iron-Fortified | Yes | Yes |
Both the Holle formula and Similac formula share several key features that make them attractive options for parents. They both use high-quality ingredients, avoid GMOs, and provide essential nutrients like DHA and ARA for brain development. Additionally, they offer a range of products tailored to different stages of infant growth.
Origin and Standards of Holle and Similac
Holle Baby Formula originates from Switzerland and Germany, where it has been produced for over 85 years. Holle is renowned for its strict adherence to organic farming standards and biodynamic agricultural practices. Their dedication to excellence guarantees that their formulas have an absence of genetically engineered organisms, harmful pesticides, and chemical fertilizers.
On the other hand, Similac Baby Formula is produced by Abbott Laboratories, a US-based company with a long history of providing infant nutrition products. Similac formulas are developed using cutting-edge science and are designed to meet the nutritional needs of infants and toddlers. While not all Similac products are organic, the brand offers several non-GMO options.
Certifications for Both Holle and Similac
| Certification | Holle Formula | Similac Formula |
|---|---|---|
| Demeter International | Yes | No |
| EU Organic Certification | Yes | No |
| Bioland | Yes | No |
| KRAV | Yes | No |
| USDA Organic Certification | No | Yes (for some products) |
| Non-GMO Project Verified | Yes | Yes (for some products) |
| FDA Approval | Yes | Yes |
Holle Reputation
Strict organic rules in the European Union (EU) have led to Holle's reputation for using superior organic components in their goods. For more than 80 years, parents who appreciate organic and all-natural products have been loyal customers of the brand.
Certifications by Holle
- Demeter International for biodynamic farming methods
- EU Organic Certification
- Bioland
- KRAV
Similac Reputation
Since it has been in existence for more than 90 years, Similac infant formula is a reputable and well-known brand. They are devoted to giving babies nutritious food and are a pioneer in the infant formula sector. Abbott Laboratories is committed to meeting newborns' and kids' nutritional needs, and one of their products is Similac.
They have multiple certifications, such as the Good Housekeeping Seal of Approval and the National Parenting Center Seal of Approval. Given the endorsement of medical professionals including pediatricians and neonatologists, parents often select Similac.
Ingredients Comparison Between Holle and Similac
Holle Ingredients
- Organic lactose
- Organic vegetable oils (palm, rapeseed, sunflower)
- Demeter milk
- Organic maltodextrin
- Organic whey powder
- Prebiotics (GOS)
- DHA and ARA
- Vitamins and minerals
Similac Ingredients
- Nonfat milk
- Lactose
- Vegetable oils (palm olein, soy, coconut, high oleic safflower)
- Whey protein concentrate
- Prebiotics (FOS)
- DHA and ARA
- Vitamins and minerals
- Nucleotides
Holle vs Similac Ingredients (Comparison Chart)
| FORMULA | HYPOALLERGENIC | LACTOSE | CORN SYRUP | MALTODEXTRIN | PALM OIL | SOY OIL | PREBIOTICS | HMOs |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| HOLLE BIO | ❌ | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| HOLLE A2 | ❌ | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| HOLLE GOAT | ❌ | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| SIMILAC PURE BLISS | ❌ | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ |
| SIMILAC 360 TOTAL CARE | ❌ | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| SIMILAC PRO-TOTAL COMFORT | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| SIMILAC ALIMENTUM | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ |
| SIMILAC TOTAL COMFORT | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ |
| SIMILAC ADVANCE | ❌ | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ |
| SIMILAC SENSITIVE | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ |
| SIMILAC NEOSURE | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ |
Holle Goat Milk Formula and Holle Goat Milk Formula Stage 1 use organic goat milk as their primary ingredient, making them an excellent choice for babies with cow’s milk sensitivities. The use of maltodextrin in Holle formulas provides a gentle source of carbohydrates.
Similac Sensitive Formula and Similac Advance Formula are designed to cater to various dietary needs and sensitivities. Similac uses a combination of nonfat milk and whey protein concentrate, along with vegetable oils, to provide balanced nutrition.
Similarities and Differences
Similarities
- Both brands offer a range of formulas for different stages of infant development.
- They both include essential fatty acids (DHA and ARA) for brain and eye development.
- Lactose serves as the main source of carbohydrates in both.
Differences
- Holle Bio Formula uses biodynamic milk, while Similac Total Comfort Formula uses nonfat milk and whey protein.
- Holle formulas are certified by the EU Organic and Demeter, while Similac offers USDA Organic options.
- Holle Goat Milk Formula is available for infants with cow’s milk sensitivities, whereas Similac does not offer a goat milk variant.
Key Differences Between Holle and Similac
| Feature | Holle Formula | Similac Formula |
|---|---|---|
| Brand Reputation | Organic ingredients for over 80 years | Well-known and reputable for over 90 years |
| Certifications | Demeter International, EU organic, Bioland, KRAV | National Parenting Center, Good Housekeeping Seal of Approval |
| Nutritional Value | Complete, in stages | Complete, from 0-12 months |
| Proteins | Organic Skimmed Milk | Non-Organic Milk. It has a Soy formula and a Hydrolyzed formula. |
| Carbohydrates | Organic lactose and maltodextrin (only some formulas) | Lactose and corn syrup solids. Comfort uses maltodextrin. Most formulas add sugar |
| Fats and Oils | Organic vegetable oils | All formulas contain non-organic soy oil. Similac does not use palm olein like Enfamil. |
| Probiotics and Prebiotics | No probiotics or prebiotics | Most formulas contain GOS or FOS |
| Cost and Availability | Varies per retailer. Exclusively sold online in the US | Widely available in stores and online |
Stages of Holle Formulas
Holle Goat Milk Formula Stages
Holle Goat Milk Formula comes in five stages. Stage PRE and Stage 4 are only available in the regular Holle Goat formula, whereas both Holle Goat formula versions (Dutch and regular goat) have Stages 1-3:
- Holle Goat Stage PRE: Intended for infants aged 0-6 months, and can be given from birth.
- Holle Goat Stage 1: Intended for infants aged 0-6 months.
- Holle Goat Stage 2: Intended for babies aged 6-12 months.
- Holle Goat Stage 3: Intended for toddlers aged 10 months and up.
- Holle Goat Stage 4: Intended for toddlers aged 12 months and up.
- Holle Goat Dutch Stage 1: Intended for infants aged 0-6 months.
- Holle Goat Dutch Stage 2: Intended for babies aged 6-12 months.
- Holle Goat Dutch Stage 3: Intended for toddlers aged 10 months and up.
Holle Cow Milk Formula
The ingredients of Holle cow milk formula are renowned for being clean and simple. The most widely used and accessible formula is cow milk formula, which is produced by Holle in two varieties. Both the Holle A2 formula and the normal Holle cow milk formula are Demeter certified, which means that 99 percent of the ingredients are organic and the remaining 1 percent are non-organic substances such as vital vitamins and minerals that are necessary for a baby's healthy growth and development. The cows are also guaranteed plenty of room to move about and graze freely in biodynamic pastures thanks to the Demeter-certified formula.
Holle Bio Formula
The most popular variety of Holle cow milk infant formula is called Holle Bio Formula, and it is well known for having a simple and clean ingredient list. Holle cow formula contains no GMOs, no soy, no sugar, and no corn syrup. Holle Bio infant formula Stage 1 and Stage PRE do not contain starch, whereas toddler formulas Stage 2-4 do contain organic starch which will fill your baby’s tummy and make them feel fuller for longer. Holle cow formulas contain DHA Omega-3 and Omega-6 sourced from ethically sourced fish oil. Lactose is the primary carbohydrate in Holle Bio formulas.
Holle Bio Formula comes in five stages:
- Holle Bio Cow's Milk Stage PRE: Intended for infants aged 0-6 months, and can be given from birth.
- Holle Bio Cow's Milk Stage 1: Intended for infants aged 0-6 months.
- Holle Bio Cow's Milk Stage 2: Intended for babies aged 6-12 months.
- Holle Bio Cow's Milk Stage 3: Intended for toddlers aged 10 months and up.
- Holle Bio Cow's Milk Stage 4: Intended for toddlers aged 12 months and up.
Holle A2 Formula
Holle A2 formula is made of cow milk from cows that contain the A2 beta-casein protein type. What this means is that Holle A2 formula is easier to digest than regular cow milk baby formula, since A2 milk has shorter fatty acid chains than cow milk without the A2 protein. Because Holle A2 baby formula is simpler to digest, parents of babies with cow milk sensitivity who still want to use cow milk formula occasionally switch from ordinary cow milk baby formula to it. Holle A2 is a lactose-based formula free of sugar, corn syrup, soy, and genetically modified organisms. While Holle A2 Stage 2 and Stage 3 contain organic starch, Holle A2 Stage 1 does not contain any starch. To make a baby feel fuller, small amounts of organic maltodextrin are added to all three stages of the Holle A2 formula.
Holle A2 formula comes in three stages:
- Holle A2 Cow's Milk Stage 1: Intended for infants aged 0-6 months.
- Holle A2 Cow's Milk Stage 2: Intended for babies aged 6-12 months.
- Holle A2 Cow's Milk Stage 3: Intended for toddlers aged 10 months and up.
Top Formulas of Holle and Similac and Where to Buy
Holle Formulas
Looking to buy Holle organic formula? Organic Life Start offers an easy-to-use online platform that enhances affordability and accessibility. This platform ensures a smooth shopping experience with discounts and subscription options. These features help parents save on their favorite Holle formulas and ensure a reliable supply for their baby's nutrition. Organic Life Start prioritizes convenience and value, making it a top choice for parents who want premium organic baby formula delivered straight to their door.
Holle Discount Details:
- Save up to 15% on the largest pack size.
- Get an extra 5% off with recurring subscriptions.
Top Similac Baby Formulas
- Similac Advance Formula
- Similac Sensitive Formula
- Similac Neosure Formula
- Similac Total Comfort Formula
- Similac 360 Total Care Infant Formula
- Similac Toddler Formula
What Sets Holle Apart from Similac?
While this blog focuses on Holle and Similac, it’s worth noting what sets Holle apart from Similac. Holle’s commitment to biodynamic farming, strict organic certifications, and the availability of goat milk formulas distinguish it from other brands. Similac offers USDA Organic-certified products and advanced nutritional formulations, but Holle's Demeter certification and European origins provide a different level of quality assurance and farming practices.
Both Holle formula and Similac formula provide excellent options for infant nutrition, each with its unique strengths. Understanding the ingredients, certifications, and available varieties can help you choose the best formula for your baby’s specific needs.
Most Popular Holle Baby Formulas
Organic Life Start is committed to providing accurate, reliable, and trustworthy information to parents and caregivers. We carefully choose credible sources and follow a meticulous fact-checking process to uphold the highest standards in infant nutrition and parenting advice. To learn more about our dedication to accuracy, please explore our editorial guidelines.
Link To Sources
31 comments
Researched & Written
By: June
Proud mom of three boys (all formula-fed!) and a believer that raising kids takes a village. Organic Life Start customer service since 2022.
Recent Post
Messiah -
When I first compared Holle and Similac, I was struck by how different the ingredient lists looked side by side. Holle focuses on organic milk from biodynamic farms, and I noticed right away that it doesn’t use corn syrup solids or artificial additives. Similac, on the other hand, includes more synthetic vitamins and often uses soy or corn-based ingredients, which made me think carefully about long-term use. My baby seemed to digest Holle more easily, with fewer gassy episodes and softer stools. Another point that stood out was the oil blend—Holle avoids palm oil in some of their formulas, while Similac typically includes it. Overall, reading the labels and then seeing the difference in my baby’s comfort really shaped my preference.
Valentina Bowie -
I tried comparing ingredient lists between two formula brands before, but my experience was totally different because my baby reacted sharply to just one change in oils (even though I thought they were all interchangeable). What looked like a minor difference on paper turned into several nights of fussiness and extra spit-ups for us. I was surprised how something as subtle as the type of carbohydrate or fat blend could impact digestion so distinctly. After switching to a formula that matched my baby’s sensitivities more closely, feeding became calmer and more predictable. Reading this blog’s deep dive into Holle vs. Similac reminds me that those fine details really can matter in real life.
Jacques Lawton -
Our baby used to be on Similac before we gave her Holle. We started with Similac because we did not know better then.🫣 My baby had some digestive issues, which caused a lot of stress. I know you can relate – new baby, very little sleep, a huge change in routines! We found Holle A2 and making the switch just made a lot of sense! It has the organic certification, it has clean ingredients, and it has A2 proteins that are friendly to his digestive system.