The table below illustrates the characteristics of breast milk, infant and follow-on formulae as well as cow’s milk. The energy and protein content of infant and follow-on formulae differ only slightly. However, follow-on formulae may contain other carbohydrates besides starch such as saccharose or fructose. Additionally, flavourings may be added as well. HiPP, however, chooses not to use any such ingredients so as not to adversely affect an infant’s development of taste.

Functional Ingredients

Apart from the obligatory ingredients, premium brands often also add optional functional ingredients. These include, for example, long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LCPs) as well as pre- and probiotics. These ingredients can also be found in breast milk, which is why they may also be used in modern milk formulae provided that the safety and benefit of these ingredients was scientifically proven. The ESPGHAN, for instance, demands such proof for pre- and/or probiotics.

Pre- and probiotics have a positive influence on the gut flora. A healthy gut flora in turn supports the not yet fully developed immune system of the young infant.
Experts also recommend the use of LCPs in infant formula as they support a child’s cognitive as well as visual development.

HiPP, with their brand COMBIOTIC®, uses the probiotic culture L. fermentum®, which was originally isolated from breast milk, and the prebiotic galacto-oligosaccharides (GOS), which are derived from lactose. The combination of both ingredients was investigated by two separate studies and both their safety and their benefit were confirmed. The proven benefit of infant as well as follow-on formulae was the significant reduction of gastrointestinal infections when compared to the control group.

1 Braegger et al. JPGN 2011; 52: 238-50 (ESPGHAN= European Society for Pediatric  Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition).
2 Koletzko et al. J Perinat Med 2008; 36: 5-14.
3 Maldonado et al. JPGN 2012; 54: 55-61; Gil-Campos et al Pharm Res 2012; 65: 231-238.

No experiments with baby’s diet!

Plant-based milk alternatives (e.g. cereal-based beverages) or milks from other animals are not suitable for infants.

• The high protein content of animal milks puts a strain on an infant’s still immature kidneys.

• Plant-based "milks" have an unbalanced nutrient content.

Contrary to numerous claims, goat milk does not prevent cow’s milk protein allergy in cases of an increased risk of allergies nor is it a suitable treatment for cases of cow’s milk protein allergy. This is due to the fact that goat’s milk and cow’s milk have a similar allergenic potential or, more specifically, there exists a high cross-reactivity between the two.

The only scientifically proven alternative for non-breastfed infants considered at increased risk for the development of allergies are hypoallergenic (HA) infant formulae.