Holle vs. Designed by Nature Comparison
38 hours of research 3 minute read

When it comes to choosing the best formula for your baby, you might find yourself trying to decide between one from Holle or Designed by Nature. Both of these companies have many devoted customers because they promise to only use top-quality, organic ingredients in their formulas. However, with different approaches, certifications, and products, they vary in some significant ways. This article will investigate these differences in detail in order to provide parents with the necessary information to make an informed decision.
American Organic vs. European Organic
One of the first things parents notice when comparing Holle and Designed by Nature is the difference in organic standards. The organic certification processes differ significantly between the United States and Europe, influencing how these formulas are produced and what ingredients they contain.
- American Organic: In the U.S., the USDA Organic certification ensures that products are free from synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, and GMOs. However, some additives, like synthetic nutrients and certain preservatives, are allowed under specific conditions.
- European Organic: European standards, especially those under the Demeter certification (which Holle adheres to), are generally stricter. The European Union’s organic label requires more stringent rules on animal welfare, prohibits artificial sweeteners and synthetic additives, and enforces stricter limits on pesticide residues.
Brand Overview
Holle is a European brand, founded in Switzerland in 1933, with a strong commitment to biodynamic farming and high organic standards. It is one of the most respected brands in Europe, known for its pure, simple ingredients and adherence to the strict Demeter certification.
Designed by Nature, on the other hand, is an American brand focused on delivering organic formulas that cater to the needs of modern parents. While it doesn’t have the long history of Holle, it has gained a following for its commitment to transparency, quality, and the use of organic, non-GMO ingredients.
Notable Differences Between Holle and Designed by Nature
Criteria | Holle | Designed by Nature |
---|---|---|
Country of Origin | Switzerland (Europe) | United States |
Organic Certification | Demeter, EU Organic | USDA Organic |
Ingredients | Biodynamic, no synthetic additives, no GMOs | Organic, non-GMO, and some synthetic nutrients allowed |
Sweeteners | Lactose, no artificial sweeteners | Organic lactose may contain synthetic nutrients |
Additives | No synthetic additives | Certain synthetic nutrients and preservatives |
Animal Welfare Standards | High (Demeter certification) | High (USDA Organic) |
Availability | Widely available in Europe, imported to the U.S. | Widely available in the U.S. |
Ingredients and Nutritional Content
Both Holle and Designed by Nature prioritize using organic ingredients, but they differ in specific choices and nutritional content:
- Holle uses biodynamic milk sourced from cows raised on Demeter-certified farms. This milk is free from artificial hormones, antibiotics, and GMOs. Holle formulas are known for their simplicity and lack of synthetic nutrients, with a focus on using natural sources for essential vitamins and minerals.
- Designed by Nature also uses organic milk but includes a broader range of synthetic nutrients to meet the FDA’s nutritional requirements. While it still maintains a strong commitment to organic and non-GMO ingredients, it may use certain synthetic vitamins and minerals to ensure comprehensive nutrition.
What Makes Holle Stand Out?
Holle’s commitment to biodynamic farming and the stringent Demeter certification truly sets it apart. The Demeter standard is one of the highest in organic farming, focusing not only on the exclusion of harmful substances but also on the holistic management of the farm ecosystem. This means that Holle formulas are not just organic but also come from farms that prioritize sustainability, soil health, and animal welfare.
Furthermore, Holle’s formulas are known for their minimal ingredient lists, avoiding unnecessary additives, and focusing on pure, natural nutrition. This simplicity is appealing to parents who want to avoid exposing their babies to synthetic substances from an early age.
Top Formulas of Holle
Holle offers a variety of formulas to suit different needs:
- Holle Bio Formula: Made with Demeter-certified milk, this formula is suitable from birth and is known for its gentle, easily digestible ingredients.
- Holle Goat Milk Formula: For babies with cow milk sensitivities, this formula offers an alternative to goat milk, which is naturally easier to digest.
- Holle A2 Milk Formula: Using A2 milk, which lacks the A1 beta-casein protein that can cause digestive discomfort in some babies, this formula is designed for easier digestion.
Pricing: Holle vs. Designed by Nature
Holle is generally more expensive, primarily due to the costs associated with biodynamic farming and Demeter certification. The premium ingredients and strict production standards mean that Holle formulas typically cost more than their American counterparts.
Stretch Your Savings with Organic Life Start
For parents who choose Holle formulas, Organic Life Start can be a budget-friendly option. They offer several ways to save on your baby's essential nutrition:
- Bulk Discounts: Purchase the largest size pack of your chosen HiPP formula and save up to 15% off the regular price. Remember, the exact discount may vary depending on the specific formula you select.
- Subscription Savings: Sign up for recurring deliveries of your HiPP formula through Organic Life Start's subscription service and enjoy an additional 5% off each order. This ensures a consistent supply while saving you time and money.
- Welcome Offer: New customers can redeem a special welcome voucher code "FAMILY" at checkout to receive an extra 10% off their first purchase of HiPP formula from Organic Life Start.
By combining these discounts, you can potentially achieve significant savings on HiPP formulas for your baby. Visit the Organic Life Start website to explore the full selection of HiPP formulas and take advantage of these valuable offers!
Designed by Nature formulas are usually more affordable, though still on the higher end of the market compared to conventional formulas. The lower price point reflects the slightly less stringent (but still high) organic standards and the economies of scale available in the U.S. market.
Remember:
Both Holle and Designed by Nature offer excellent options for parents seeking high-quality, organic baby formulas. The choice between the two ultimately depends on your priorities—whether you value the stringent European standards and biodynamic farming of Holle or prefer the convenience and slightly lower cost of Designed by Nature with its solid organic credentials.
Parents often debate between the designed by nature goats milk formula and the designed by nature formula, taking into account various designed by nature goat milk formula reviews. However, many also consider the well-known holle formula, including the holle goat milk formula, which is a popular choice for holle baby formula users, particularly the holle goat milk formula stage 1 and the holle bio formula.
Top Holle Baby Formulas
Sources: