Kendamil vs. Similac: Formula Comparison

Choosing the right formula for your baby is a significant decision for parents, impacting their early growth and development profoundly. With a wide array of options available, navigating the world of infant nutrition can feel overwhelming. In this blog, we take an in-depth look at two of the leading formula brands: Kendamil and Similac. We'll explore the differences and similarities between Kendamil and Similac. From their formulations and quality standards to consumer preferences, we aim to offer valuable insights to help you make an informed choice for your baby's nutritional needs.

Brand Overview

Before diving into the detailed comparison of Kendamil and Similac, it's important to understand the foundational values and commitments that drive these two renowned formula brands.

Kendamil, a distinguished British brand with a legacy spanning over 60 years, operates as a family business nestled in the pristine English Lake District. Their team of formulators, led by their Head of R&D with over 43 years of experience, meticulously crafts and monitors each recipe, ensuring the highest standards without compromise. Their factory in Kendal sources over a million liters of milk each month from grass-fed animals on local farms prioritizing animal welfare. The brand is dedicated to quality and sustainability, sourcing organic ingredients locally to ensure every product reflects the region's purity. This dedication has earned Kendamil prestigious recognitions, including the Queen’s Award and an Honorary MBE for their founder, Ross, for contributions to British farming and supporting families in the USA. During a recent baby formula shortage in the US, Kendamil supplied millions of cans to parents in need, becoming the fastest-growing formula brand in the country within a year.

Similac is a well-known brand produced by Abbott Laboratories, a global healthcare company founded in 1888. Similac has a strong reputation for using scientific research to develop its formulas, making it a trusted choice for parents worldwide. The brand, founded in 1925, invests heavily in research to understand infants' nutritional needs, ensuring that Similac formulas are backed by science and provide the necessary nutrients for your baby's growth and development. Similac offers a diverse range of products, including ready-to-feed baby formulas and powdered formulas designed for various dietary requirements, ensuring that parents can find the right nutritional solution for their children.

Kendamil Formulas

Kendamil Classic

✓ 100% Vegetarian Formula

✓ Contains Plant-Based DHA and ARA

✓ No sugar, no corn syrup, no soy, no palm oil

✓ Made from full cream cow's milk

✓ Kendamil's most popular go-to infant cow's milk formula

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Kendamil Classic stands as Kendamil's most popular and reliable go-to infant cow's milk formula for babies. This formula is carefully designed to replicate the whey and casein ratio found in natural breast milk, featuring an easily digestible 60:40 whey/casein blend. Kendamil Classic formula includes galactooligosaccharides from milk (3-GLs) and is lactose-based, ensuring your baby gets the best nutrition. It excludes palm oil, sugar, corn syrup, maltodextrin, soy, starch, wheat, nuts, synthetic additives, preservatives, and GMOs, providing a natural and nourishing choice for your little one.

Kendamil Organic

✓ Whole Milk as a Natural Mammal Fat Source

✓ Contains Plant-Based DHA and ARA

✓ No sugar, no corn syrup, no soy, no palm oil

✓ EU and British Soil Association Certified Organic

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Kendamil Organic takes it a step further by offering a formula made with organic ingredients. This formula adheres to the rigorous standards of European Organic certification, ensuring that the ingredients are free from pesticides, herbicides, and synthetic fertilizers. It does not contain palm oil, fish oil, and other cheap additives. They use locally sourced organic whole milk, which provides a naturally creamy taste and reduces the need for vegetable oils. Additionally, Kendamil Organic is enriched with essential vitamins and minerals to support the healthy growth and development of infants.

Kendamil Goat

✓ Contains Full Cream A2 Milk

✓ No sugar, no corn syrup, no soy, no palm oil

✓ Contains Lactose with a Low Glycemic Index

✓ Popular for digestive issues or sensitivity to cow’s milk

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Kendamil Goat is one of the most favored goat formulas in Europe, by far. It is carefully crafted using 100% full cream goat milk, making it the perfect choice for infants intolerant to cow's milk formulas. This clean formula is packed with all-natural minerals and essential vitamins like A, C, D, selenium, and iron. More importantly, it contains natural prebiotics that nurture your baby's gut microbiome, bolstering their immune system. Kendamil Goat proudly features vegetarian-friendly plant-based DHA and ALA (Omega-3 and 6 LCPs) sourced from marine algae, avoiding the use of fish oil. Although it is not organic, Kendamil Goat still follows the high-quality standards set by European regulations, ensuring that it provides safe and nutritious options for infants with specific dietary needs.

Similac Formulas

Similac® 360 Total Care®

Similac® 360 Total Care® is claimed by Similac to be formulated to be as close to breast milk as possible. It contains an exclusive blend of 5 HMO prebiotics that are structurally identical to those found in breast milk, supporting the baby's immune system, digestive health, and brain development. Ingredients in Similac 360 Total Care Infant Formula have no artificial growth hormones and are non-GMO.

Similac® 360 Total Care® Sensitive

Similac® 360 Total Care® Sensitive is specifically designed for babies who experience fussiness and gas due to lactose sensitivity. Like Similac® 360 Total Care®, it contains the same blend of 5 HMO prebiotics and is non-GMO. This Similac Sensitive Formula offers gentle nutrition to ease common tummy troubles, ensuring that babies with lactose sensitivity receive the necessary nutrients without discomfort.

Similac® Advance®

Similac® Advance® is a nutritionally complete, milk-based, iron-fortified infant formula intended for a baby’s first year. It includes a unique blend of ingredients to support the baby’s brain and eye development, such as DHA, lutein, and vitamin E. Consistent with other Similac products, Similac Advance Formula contains no artificial growth hormones, aiming to provide a balanced diet for growing infants.

Key Similarities and Differences

Comprehensive Comparison Between Kendamil and Similac

Key Ingredients

Kendamil: Kendamil formulas feature whole milk, rich in milk fat globule membrane (MFGM), which supports cognitive development in infants. The ingredients are 100% vegetarian and are free from added sugars, soy, palm oil, fish oils, soy, starch/cornstarch, maltodextrin, GMOs, gluten, synthetic preservatives, hormones, and antibiotics. Kendamil’s goat milk options use full cream A2 goat milk and goat whey to aid digestion. The formulas also include prebiotics (GOS, FOS) promoting natural gut health and lactose with a low glycemic index.

Similac: Similac formulas are scientifically formulated to provide essential nutrients crucial for infant growth and development, including probiotics, vitamins, a unique blend of ingredients like DHA, lutein, and vitamin E, specifically designed to support the baby’s brain, eye development, and overall health. Some Similac formula also include an exclusive blend of 5 HMO prebiotics that are structurally identical to those found in breast milk. However, it's important to note that some formulations may include processed ingredients and palm oil, which raise environmental concerns.

KENDAMIL VS SIMILAC FORMULAS: COMPARISON CHART

Regulatory Standards

Kendamil: One of the key distinctions between Kendamil and Similac lies in the regulatory frameworks they adhere to. Kendamil, a UK-based brand, operates under the stringent European Organic regulations, which are known for their rigorous standards and comprehensive quality controls. These regulations prohibit the use of synthetic pesticides, fertilizers, and genetic engineering in crop cultivation, ensuring that only organic feed is given to animals without synthetic hormones or antibiotics. Moreover, European standards mandate adequate outdoor access for animals, particularly ruminants like cows, to support natural behaviors and health.

Similac: In contrast, Similac, as an American brand, adheres to guidelines set by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). While the FDA ensures the safety and nutritional adequacy of infant formulas, its regulations are perceived to be less stringent compared to European standards. Due to the FDA's vaguely worded regulations, US baby formula producers can interpret them in various ways, sometimes leading to prioritizing economic factors over nutritional standards. As a result, clear breaches of organic standards may be observed. For instance, organic certification in the US might still be awarded even if animals have minimal pasture access or if organic crops are grown next to non-organic ones and their proximity can result in substances from the non-organic crops being sprayed onto those labeled as "certified organic," a practice commonly referred to as "overspray" by farmers.

Recent Recalls and Safety Concerns

Kendamil: Kendamil maintains stringent safety and quality standards for their formulas, ensuring compliance with European Organic regulations. As of our latest information, we have not heard of any recalls from Kendamil.

Similac: In 2022, Similac initiated a voluntary recall affecting certain lots of their Ready-to-Feed and powder formula products due to potential contamination concerns. This recall impacted various formulations including the brands Similac Pro-Total Comfort®, Similac® 360 Total Care®, Similac® 360 Total Care® Sensitive, Similac® Special Care® 24, Similac® Stage 1, Similac® Water (Sterilized), Similac Neosure® and Pedialyte® Electrolyte Solution. The affected products were primarily distributed in the US, with limited distribution to Canada, Colombia, the Dominican Republic, Panama, and select Caribbean countries. For more details, you can visit the official Similac recall notice here.

Variety and Special Formulations

Kendamil: Kendamil offers a comprehensive range of formulas tailored to different stages of infant development. This includes Kendamil Stage 1 or Infant formula, Kendamil Stage 2 or Follow-on Milk formula, and Kendamil Stage 3 or Kendamil Toddler Milk formula. In addition to classic and organic powdered formulas and Kendamil Ready to Feed, Kendamil offers goat milk option suitable for babies with cow's milk sensitivity. This formula uses full cream A2 goat milk and goat whey, promoting easier digestion, and is suitable for infants with specific dietary needs.

Similac: Known for its extensive range of specialized formulas, Similac caters to various dietary requirements such as lactose sensitivity, spit-up, and fussiness. They offer products like Similac Neosure Formula for premature babies, Similac Total Comfort Formula and Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive for sensitive tummies, a wide range of powdered and ready-to-feed Similac Infant Formula, and some Similac Toddler Formula for older infants transitioning to solid foods.

Carbohydrate Sources

Kendamil: Kendamil primarily uses organic lactose as the carbohydrate source in its formulas, closely mimicking the natural sugars found in breast milk. Organic lactose is not only a source of energy but also aids in the absorption of calcium and other nutrients crucial for growing babies. This natural sugar is gentle on the digestive system, making it a preferred choice for parents looking to replicate the benefits of breastfeeding in their infant's diet.

Similac: In addition to lactose, Similac formulas may incorporate corn syrup or other sweeteners as carbohydrate sources. Corn syrup, while providing energy, is viewed by some parents as less desirable due to concerns about its potential effects on blood sugar levels and digestion in infants. The high glycemic index of corn syrup can cause rapid spikes and drops in blood sugar, which some believe may not be ideal for young infants. Furthermore, there are concerns about the long-term impact of consuming high levels of corn syrup, such as contributing to the risk of obesity and other metabolic issues later in life.

Price and Availability

Kendamil: Kendamil formulas are typically priced between $36.40 (Classic) to $43.60 (Organic) per 800g can, placing them on the higher end of the market. Despite this higher cost, many parents find the investment worthwhile for the peace of mind it offers. Availability-wise, despite being a UK-based brand, Kendamil formulas are accessible to parents in the US through various online retailers like Organic Life Start, providing convenient options for purchasing.

Similac: Similac formulas are generally more affordable, ranging from $33.98 per 30.8 oz tub (Similac 360 Total Care), making them a budget-friendly option for many parents. Similac's widespread availability in supermarkets, pharmacies, and online retailers across the US ensures convenient access for most parents. This extensive distribution network makes Similac a popular choice for families looking for reliable and easily accessible infant formula options.

Parent Reviews

Kendamil: Parents who choose Kendamil often rave about its natural ingredients, particularly whole milk and organic lactose, which closely mimic the sugars and richness found in breast milk. They frequently mention that their babies enjoy the delicious taste and creamy texture of Kendamil formulas, making feeding times a pleasure. Many report noticeable health benefits such as reduced colic and improved digestion. Parents also appreciate Kendamil's commitment to ethical sourcing and sustainability, which ensures they are confident their infants are consuming formulas free from unnecessary ingredients.

Similac: Similac baby formulas receive positive reviews for their wide range of options catering to different dietary needs and stages of infant development. Parents appreciate the availability and affordability of Similac formulas, making them accessible choices across various retail outlets. However, some express concerns about certain ingredients like palm olein oil and GMOs used in some Similac products. These concerns highlight the importance of ingredient transparency and parental preference for formulas free from certain additives.

What Makes Kendamil Stand Out

Kendamil’s dedication to quality and natural ingredients distinguishes it significantly from other formula brands like Similac. Here are several key features that underscore why Kendamil is a preferred choice for many parents:

• Kendamil Ingredients: Kendamil utilizes locally-sourced whole milk in their formulas, providing a rich source of natural fats and nutrients that closely mimic the nutritional profile of breast milk.
• Organic Certification: Kendamil Organic formula adhere to stringent European Organic standards. This certification guarantees that all ingredients are free from harmful pesticides, herbicides, and synthetic fertilizers, offering parents peace of mind regarding their baby’s nutrition.
• Goat Milk Option: Kendamil offers a Kendamil Goat Formula designed for infants with cow’s milk sensitivities. Goat milk is naturally easier to digest and less likely to cause allergic reactions, making it a suitable choice for babies with sensitive stomachs.
• Staged Formulas for Developmental Needs: Kendamil provides a range of formulas tailored to different stages of infant development. This ensures that babies receive age-appropriate nutrition essential for their growth and well-being.
• Adherence to European Standards: Kendamil strictly adheres to the rigorous regulations set by European authorities. These standards are known for their comprehensive oversight and stringent quality controls, surpassing many of the regulatory requirements enforced by the FDA.

Purchase Kendamil Formulas with Ease

For parents looking to buy Kendamil formulas, Organic Life Start provides an easy-to-use online platform. Organic Life Start also offers various discounts and subscription options, making it convenient and cost-effective to maintain your baby's nutritional needs.

• Bulk Discounts: Save up to 15% when you buy the largest size pack of your preferred Kendamil formula.
• Subscription Savings: You can sign up for recurring deliveries of the Kendamil formula through Organic Life Start's subscription service and receive an additional 5% off each order.

Similac vs Kendamil

Choosing the right formula for your baby is a critical decision that can impact their growth and development. While both Kendamil and Similac offer nutritionally adequate options, Kendamil’s commitment to natural ingredients, whole milk recipes, and strict adherence to European regulations make it a standout choice for many parents. By understanding the differences and similarities between these brands, you can make an informed decision that best meets the needs of your baby.

For more insights, consider checking out Kendamil Formula reviews to see what other parents have experienced with the product. In the end, what matters most is ensuring that your baby receives the nutrition they need to thrive. Ultimately, the choice between Kendamil and Similac will depend on your baby’s specific needs and your personal preferences. Always consult with healthcare professionals to ensure that you select the best formula for your baby's health and well-being.

Kendamil vs Similac — FAQ

Looking at more European alternatives? Our guide lets you compare all three major European brands side by side.

Most Popular Kendamil Baby Formulas

1. Kendamil Classic Formula
2. Kendamil Organic Formula
3. Kendamil Goat Formula