Does follow-on formula really contain sugar and/or flavorings?

As infants enter the second half of their first year, their nutritional needs change and the demand for nutrients increases – particularly for iron.

Follow-on formula can be introduced after 6 months of age in combination of complementary foods as part of a mixed diet.  Follow-on formula is optimally adapted to the needs of older infants. This particularly is the case for minerals such as iron and calcium, their content lies markedly above the infant formula ones.

There are often concerns that follow-on formulas contain added sugars and/or flavorings. But is that really the case?

The composition of follow-on formula is strictly regulated by EU legislation, which defines minimum and maximum levels for nutrients. While carbohydrates other than lactose may be permitted, their use has only little practical relevance in Europe. So, a look at the ingredients list is worth it. Flavorings are not included in the regulation, meaning they are not allowed to be added.

When used as part of a balanced complementary feeding approach, follow-on formulas with an appropriately low protein content (< 2 g/100 kcal) and an increased iron content can be a valuable addition to an infant’s diet by helping to meet iron requirements and providing a nutrient profile tailored to the needs of older infants.