Blog15 Best Formula Milks for 0-6 Months Babies in India [August, 2024]
Aravind Pai![15 Best Formula Milks for 0-6 Months Babies in India [August, 2024]](https://happycredit.in/cloudinary_opt/blog/best-formula-milk-for-baby-0-6-months-in-india-syxbm.webp "15 Best Formula Milks for 0-6 Months Babies in India [August, 2024]")
Choosing the best formula milk for baby 0-6 months in India can be an overwhelming task for new parents. With so many options to choose from, it becomes difficult to select one that meets all the nutritional requirements for healthy growth in the first 6 months of life. This blog compares the top formula milk products in India for babies under 6 months to help parents make the right choice.
/ IN THIS ARTICLE [ hide ]
- Lactogen Nestle 1 Infant Formula Powder – Upto 6 Months
- Aptamil Gold Infant Formula Milk Powder for Babies – Stage 1
- EXCELLAPRO Nestlé Nan Excella Pro 1 Infant Formula Powder
- Nestlé Nan Pro 1 Infant Formula With Probiotic
- Dexolac Infant Formula Milk Powder for Babies – Stage 1
- Similac Infant Formula Stage 1
- Similac Advance Stage 1 Infant Formula
- Similac Plus Stage 1 Infant Formula
- Aptamil Gold Follow Up Infant Formula Milk Powder for Babies – St...
- Dexolac Special Care Infant Formula
- Dexolac Premium Stage 1 Infant Formula Milk Powder for Babies
- Similac Neosure Preterm Infant Formula 400g Tin
- Enfamil A+ Stage 2 Follow Up Formula – 400 g (6 Months Onward)
- EXCELLAPRO Nestlé Nan Excellapro 2 Follow-Up Formula Powder – Aft...
- Similac Plus Stage 3 Follow-Up Formula from 12 to 18 Months 400g ...
- Comparison for best formula milk for baby 0-6 months in India
- How to choose the best formula milk for 0-6 months babies
- Different types of Baby Formula
- Guide on Formula Milk Usage, Maintenance and Care
- FAQs about best formula milk for baby 0-6 months
- Conclusion
1. Lactogen Nestle 1 Infant Formula Powder – Upto 6 Months
Description
Lactogen 1 infant formula from Nestle is specially formulated to provide complete nutrition for babies up to 6 months of age. It contains prebiotics and is easy to digest.
Key Features
- Contains prebiotics to support digestive health
- Made from high-quality ingredients
- Nutritionally complete formula
- Easy to digest
- No added starch
Our Expert Opinion
Lactogen 1 offers a nutritionally balanced formula tailored for babies in the first 6 months. The prebiotics support digestive health while the easy digestibility and lack of added starch prevents constipation. It’s an excellent choice for parents looking for a formula that meets all nutritional needs.
2. Aptamil Gold Infant Formula Milk Powder for Babies – Stage 1
Description
Aptamil Gold stage 1 formula contains 2’-FL HMO, the most abundant HMO* in breast milk, plus prebiotics to support digestive health and natural defence. Crafted after breast milk, it has a gentle protein blend for easy digestion.
Key Features
- Contains 2’-FL HMO* found in breast milk
- Has prebiotics for digestive health
- Gentle partially hydrolysed whey protein
- Easy to digest
- No added sucrose or starch
Our Expert Opinion
With 2’-FL HMO, the closest formula to breast milk, Aptamil Gold sets the gold standard for baby formulas in the first 6 months. The prebiotics and gentle protein encourage easy digestion while building natural defence against infections. An outstanding formula mimicking breast milk.
3. EXCELLAPRO Nestlé Nan Excella Pro 1 Infant Formula Powder
Description
Nan Excella Pro 1 from Nestle provides complete nutrition inspired by breast milk for babies under 6 months. It has prebiotics for immunity and easy digestion.
Key Features
- Clinically proven prebiotics
- Partially hydrolysed whey protein
- Inspired by breast milk
- Complete nutrition
- Easy to digest
Our Expert Opinion
Nan Excella Pro 1 offers a cutting-edge formula modelled after breast milk with prebiotics for immunity and digestion. The hydrolysed protein encourages effortless digestion. An advanced formula from Nestle that ticks all boxes for baby’s nutritional needs.
4. Nestlé Nan Pro 1 Infant Formula With Probiotic
Description
Nestle Nan Pro 1 infant formula contains MFGM protein from milk fat for brain & vision development. It has probiotics & is nutritionally complete for babies under 6 months.
Key Features
- Probiotics for gut health
- MFGM protein for brain and eye development
- No added sucrose
- Complete nutrition
- Iron for cognitive development
Our Expert Opinion
Nan Pro 1 offers a one-of-a-kind formula with MFGM protein and probiotics for gut and brain development. The iron promotes cognitive growth. With no added sugar and tailored nutrition, it’s an outstanding formula preparing baby for the crucial first 6 months.
5. Dexolac Infant Formula Milk Powder for Babies – Stage 1
Description
Dexolac 1 is a nutritionally complete formula for infants up to 6 months. It contains FOS prebiotic and a blend of proteins for easy digestion and natural immunity.
Key Features
- Contains FOS prebiotic
- Partially hydrolysed proteins for digestion
- 36 vital nutrients
- No added sucrose
- Iron for brain development
Our Expert Opinion
Dexolac 1 offers a premium formula tailored to an infant’s nutritional needs in the first 6 months. The prebiotic and protein blend encourage hassle-free digestion while building natural immunity against infections. An excellent formula for overall growth and development.
6. Similac Infant Formula Stage 1
Description
Similac stage 1 formula provides complete nutrition for babies under 6 months with no palm olein oil and optimized DHA for brain and vision development.
Key Features
- No palm olein oil
- Has lutein for eye health
- Optimized DHA
- Complete nutrition
- Builds immune health
Our Expert Opinion
With the goodness of DHA and no palm oil, Similac stage 1 formula nourishes the baby’s brain, eyes, bones and immunity in the crucial first 6 months. The tailored nutrients ensure optimal growth and development without constipation worries. An excellent clean formula for all-round health.
7. Similac Advance Stage 1 Infant Formula
Description
Similac Advance 1 is a nutritionally complete formula with nucleotides & DHA to support cell development in babies under 6 months. It builds immunity without constipation.
Key Features
- Has nucleotides for cell growth
- Optimized DHA
- Strengthens immune system
- Complete nutrition
- No palm olein oil
Our Expert Opinion
True to its name, Similac Advance offers an advanced formula in Stage 1 with nucleotides for rapid cell development and immunity along with DHA for brain nourishment without constipation issues. A truly wholesome formula for growth in the first 6 months of life.
8. Similac Plus Stage 1 Infant Formula
Description
Similac Plus 1 infant formula contains 2’-FL HMO for immune health. It has DHA, ARA, and Choline to support brain development in babies under 6 months.
Key Features
- Contains 2’-FL HMO
- DHA and Choline
- Strengthens immunity
- Supports brain nourishment
- No palm olein oil
Our Expert Opinion
With the power of 2’-FL HMO, DHA and Choline, Similac Plus 1 offers a cutting-edge formula to boost baby’s immunity, brain, eye and nerve growth in the first 6 months for a strong foundation. A formula par excellence.
9. Aptamil Gold Follow Up Infant Formula Milk Powder for Babies – Stage 2
Description
Aptamil Gold follow-on formula is crafted after breast milk containing prebiotics for digestive health in babies 6-12 months. It has a gentle whey protein profile for easy digestion.
Key Features
- Contains GOS prebiotics
- Gentle whey dominant protein
- Easy digestion
- No added sucrose
- Iron for cognitive growth
Our Expert Opinion
Aptamil Gold follow-on formula truly sets the gold standard for stage 2 baby food with its signature gentle protein and prebiotics for hassle-free digestion, immunity and brain development crucial after 6 months.
10. Dexolac Special Care Infant Formula
Description
Dexolac Special Care formula is designed especially for preterm & low birth weight babies with boosted protein, minerals, MCT oil etc to meet their high nutrition needs.
Key Features
- Higher protein content
- Contains MCT oil
- Boosted minerals
- Complete nutrition
- Probiotics
Our Expert Opinion
Living up to its name, Dexolac Special Care offers a powerful formula crafted just for preterm and underweight babies with its protein and mineral fortification to aid growth and development. Its probiotics also boost immunity in this vulnerable age.
11. Dexolac Premium Stage 1 Infant Formula Milk Powder for Babies
Description
Dexolac premium stage 1 formula provides optimum nutrition for all-round development in the first 6 months of life. It contains whey-predominant protein, DHA, GOS prebiotic and HMOs for brain and immunity development.
Key Features
- Has GOS prebiotic
- Premium whey protein
- DHA and HMOs
- Complete tailored nutrition
- Lutein
Our Expert Opinion
Dexolac Premium rightly lives up to its name by offering a premium gold standard when it comes to formula in the Stage 1. Power-packed with whey protein, prebiotics, HMOs and DHA, it checks all boxes for brain and physical development while boosting immunity too – making it worth its weight in gold for all parents!
12. Similac Neosure Preterm Infant Formula 400g Tin
Description
Similac Neosure is a high-protein and nutritionally complete formula for premature and underweight babies to meet their special nutritional demands.
Key Features
- Enriched protein
- Has DHA, ARA, lutein
- Optimized minerals
- Brain and eye nourishment
- Probiotics
Our Expert Opinion
True to its purpose, Similac Neosure offers a powerhouse formula tailored for preterm babies with enriched nutrition specially designed for their needs after coming into this world too soon, ensuring they receive the support for growth they require. A must-have for parents of premature babies.
13. Enfamil A+ Stage 2 Follow Up Formula – 400 g (6 Months Onward)
Description
Enfamil A+ Stage 2 is a brain-nourishing dual prebiotic formula for babies over 6 months enriched with DHA, choline, iron and 30 nutrients to aid in transition to solid foods.
Key Features
- Dual prebiotics
- Brain nourishing nutrients
- Complete nutrition
- Iron and DHA fortification
- No added sucrose
Our Expert Opinion
Enfamil A+ Stage 2 offers a seamless transition formula for babies over 6 months to complement solid food while nourishing the growing brain with two expert-recommended prebiotics for gut health and smart nutrition with iron, DHA and choline. A great value enriched formula.
14. EXCELLAPRO Nestlé Nan Excellapro 2 Follow-Up Formula Powder – After 6 Months
Description
Nan Excellapro 2 follow-up formula delivers complete nutrition with prebiotics and tailored protein to help meet high nutritional demands of babies 6-12 months.
Key Features
- Clinically proven prebiotics
- Partially hydrolysed whey protein
- Brain, eye & bone nutrients
- Complete tailored nutrition
- No added sucrose
Our Expert Opinion
Living up to the Excellapro name, Nan Excellapro 2 provides excellent nutrition packed with prebiotics for immunity, gentle protein for digestion and ample brain nourishment to perfectly complement solid food for babies after crossing the 6 months milestone.
15. Similac Plus Stage 3 Follow-Up Formula from 12 to 18 Months 400g Tin with HMO
Description
Similac Plus Stage 3 follow-up formula delivers wholesome complete nutrition with 2’-FL HMO, DHA, ARA, Iron, Choline after 12 months for sustained all-round development into toddlerhood while also building strong immunity.
Key Features
- Contains 2’-FL HMO
- DHA, choline, lutein
- Balanced iron
- Optimized nutrition
- Brain and eye nourishment
Our Expert Opinion
Living up to the Plus name, Similac Plus Stage 3 offers an indisputably superior follow-up formula maintaining the same enrichment of 2’-FL HMO and nourishing brain building blocks like DHA to continue nourishing the holistic development crucial in the toddlerhood while also safeguarding immune health, making it the ideal formula after 12 months.
Comparison for best formula milk for baby 0-6 months in India
| Product | Key Features | Expert Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Lactogen Nestle 1 | Prebiotics, No added starch | Nutritionally complete, Easy digestibility |
| Aptamil Gold Stage 1 | 2’-FL HMO, Prebiotics | Closest to breastmilk composition |
| Nan Excella Pro 1 | Prebiotics, Hydrolysed whey protein | Modelled after breastmilk |
| Nan Pro 1 | Probiotics, MFGM protein | Brain & eye development |
| Dexolac 1 | FOS Prebiotic, Proteins for digestion | Builds natural immunity |
| Similac Stage 1 | No palm oil, Optimized DHA | Nourishes brain, Eye, Bone, Immunity |
| Similac Advance 1 | Nucleotides, No palm oil | Rapid cell growth & immunity |
| Similac Plus 1 | 2’-FL HMO, DHA, Choline | Boosts immunity & brain |
| Aptamil Gold Stage 2 | GOS Prebiotics | Digestive & cognitive growth |
| Dexolac Special Care | Higher protein, MCT oil | For preterm & underweight babies |
| Dexolac Premium 1 | GOS Prebiotics, Whey protein, DHA, HMOs | Checks all boxes for development |
| Similac Neosure | Enriched protein & minerals | Tailored for preemies |
| Enfamil A+ Stage 2 | Dual prebiotics, Choline | Brain nourishing formula |
| Nan Excellapro 2 | Prebiotics, Hydrolysed whey | 6-12 months nutrition |
| Similac Plus Stage 3 | 2′-FL HMO, Brain nutrients | Sustained development |
How to choose the best formula milk for 0-6 months babies
When choosing the ideal formula in Stage 1, look for the below key factors crucial for development:
- HMOs & Prebiotics: Ensure the formula contains HMOs and/or prebiotics to provide active support for the nascent gut and immunity.
- Protein profile: Go for partially hydrolysed, gentle proteins for easier digestion. No intact proteins.
- Brain nutrients: Must contain DHA + ARA + Choline to support rapid brain development.
- No constipation: Should be easy to digest, contain no added starch or sucrose.
- Nutritionally complete: Formula must meet all nutritional needs in line with FDA guidelines for Stage 1.
- Reputation: Choose top brands with strong R&D expertise in infant nutrition.
Different types of Baby Formula
There are different varieties of formula milk catering to different needs:
Standard Milk-Based:
Contains lactose & vitamin D best suited for babies who tolerated breastmilk. Most common.
Partially & Extensively Hydrolysed:
The protein is broken down more for babies with sensitivity. Help prevent allergies.
Speciality:
For babies with special needs like sensitivity, allergies or intolerance issues. Eg: Soy formula.
Follow-on Formula:
After 6 months to complement solid food as per the baby’s changing nutrition needs in Stage 2 & 3.
Guide on Formula Milk Usage, Maintenance and Care
Storage
- Store sealed packets in a cool, dry place away from sunlight
- Opened formula must be refrigerated and used within 24 hours
- Use formula within shelf life; Check expiry before use
Preparation
- Wash hands and preparation equipment properly before making each feed
- Always follow instructions and measurements
- Once baby starts drinking unfinished formula must be discarded
Bottles
- Invest in good quality BPA-free feeding bottles
- Sterilize bottles as per instructions before first use
- Clean thoroughly before reuse and sterilize frequently
Don’t save leftovers. Bacteria can grow quickly in formula leading to illness in baby. Follow preparation guidelines carefully and maintain highest hygiene at all times.
FAQs about best formula milk for baby 0-6 months
Q. What is the best formula milk for baby 0-6 months?
Based on extensive research, the top formula milk for 0-6 months baby are:
- Aptamil Gold Infant Formula Milk Powder with 2’-FL HMO and prebiotics
- Similac Plus Stage 1 Infant Formula with 2’-FL HMO
- Nestle Nan Pro 1 Formula with MFGM protein and probiotics
- Enfamil A+ Stage 1 Infant Formula
- Dexolac Premium Stage 1 Formula with HMOs and GOS prebiotic
The Aptamil Gold formula is the closest match to breastmilk containing 2’-FL HMO, the most abundant HMO in mom’s milk along with prebiotics. This makes it the Editor’s Choice for delivering complete, easy-to-digest nutrition modelled after breastmilk for babies under 6 months.
Q. How should I choose formula milk for baby in India?
- When selecting baby formula in India, look for top brands like Aptamil, Similac, Enfamil and Nestle that adhere to FDA guidelines for Complete Nutrition. Check the ingredients list for contents like GOS or FOS prebiotics, partially hydrolysed proteins, HMOs, DHA/ARA and iron. Also ensure no added starch, sugars or oils high in polyunsaturated fats. The formula should have nutrients to support brain growth, digestion and immunity.
Q. What formula ingredients are best for 0-6 months baby?
- The best formula ingredients for 0-6 months baby include 2’-FL HMO, prebiotics like GOS or FOS, partially hydrolysed gentle proteins, DHA and ARA for brain nourishment, choline, iron, nucleotides, lutein and MFGM or whey protein. These ingredients work synergistically to encourage easy digestion, strengthen immunity, support rapid brain development and overall growth in babies under 6 months for a strong foundation.
Q. Is formula as good as breastmilk?
- A. Breastmilk is considered the gold standard in infant nutrition. However, formula comes extremely close with its tailoring to meet nutritional needs. Rest assured good quality formula provides safe, complete nutrition when breastfeeding is challenging or unavailable.
Q. When can I introduce my baby to formula?
- A. Most exclusively breastfed babies can be introduced to formula when starting solids around 6 months. However for combo fed babies it can be given alongside breastmilk right from birth as well if needed by your healthcare provider’s recommendation.
Q. Is it okay to change formula frequently?
- A. It’s best to not change formulas often unless baby has sensitivity to some ingredient eg: lactose. Switching excessively can cause gassiness, fussiness, changes to stool as baby’s tummy adjusts. Check with pediatrician first.
Q. Can I make the formula thicker for my baby?
- A. No, the formula powder must always be prepared according to the instructions on the label. Making it thicker or more concentrated can lead to dehydration and serious health issues in baby. Never alter consistency.
Q. Which formula ingredients should I avoid?
- A. Watch out for sugar or corn syrups, starch, intact proteins, and vegetable oils high in polyunsaturated fats like palm olein oil in the ingredients list. Minimizing these reduces gassiness, constipation and sensitivity issues.
Conclusion
Choosing the ideal formula to nourish baby in the all-important first 6 months can be an overwhelming task for new parents considering the plethora of options out there. Based on extensive research and review of top products currently available, the Aptamil Gold Infant Formula with 2’-FL HMO and prebiotics checks all boxes when it comes to meeting nutritional requirements modelled closest after gold standard breastmilk while also going the extra mile to support immune health crucial for the developing baby – making it our Editor’s Choice for Best Formula Milk for 0-6 months baby.
For parents struggling with low milk supply or lactation difficulties, the Aptamil Gold formula provides total peace of mind that baby will receive tailored complete nutrition required for healthy growth and development in the early months of life with minimum fussiness or discomfort. Its signature mix of the most abundant breastmilk HMO, 2’-FL along with assisting prebiotics gives babies a real ‘gold advantage’ when mother’s own milk is a challenge.
Not far behind is the Similac Plus Stage 1 formula also containing 2’-FL HMO and DHA for brain nourishment – making it a close contender if the budget is tight and parents are looking for the benefits of HMOs in a high quality more affordable option without compromising on nutrition.
The Nestle Nan Pro 1 formula also deserves applause for its unique MFGM protein and probiotic enrichment catered to boosting brain, nerve and eye health for increased alertness and growth.
Whichever formula you ultimately choose for your little one during the 0-6 month window, the key is ensure it lives up to WHO & FDA’s highest standards for Complete Nutrition tailored for the first 6 months along with checking for ingredients that support digestion, immunity and development. This will ensure your baby receives optimal nourishment to thrive in their magical early months here and takes that strong first step towards a lifetime of good health!
Product prices and availability are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on merchant's site at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of these products. HappyCredit is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program. As part of this program, we may earn commission from qualifying purchases made through the affiliate links provided on this website. We only promote products on Amazon that we genuinely believe are of high quality and value to our audience. The inclusion of affiliate links does not influence our editorial content or product recommendations. Our primary goal is to provide useful information and help you make informed purchasing decisions.
Certain portions of the text in this article might have been created using AI tools and subsequently edited by the author to improve the overall quality and clarity of the content for readers.
