Baby food formulas are a source of high-quality nutrition and a go-to choice for many parents around the globe. Organic baby formula is always a popular choice, but in Europe, only some baby formulas are as popular as HiPP and Holle.
Before delving into the two baby formulas to understand the fundamental differences between HiPP and Holle, knowing a bit about what nutrients baby formula contains is important. Here’s a brief overview of baby formula and the nutrients it provides to your little one.
Understanding Organic Food
Organic baby food is made with all-natural ingredients. It is free of hormones, fertilizers and other potentially dangerous chemicals. The plants and animals used to make the products are also fed a healthy, organic diet.
Organic baby formula is a priority for many parents, as it is considered to be a more safe and natural choice. While breastfeeding is always the ideal option for babies, a high-quality organic baby formula will help little ones grow to lead happy, healthy lives.
History of HiPP & Holle
HiPP and Holle are not only the leading organic brands of baby formula in Europe, but are also among the most established and trusted producers of baby formula in the world.
Established in 1930 in Switzerland, Holle has been around for 70 years now, while the original German formula HiPP has been around for more than a century!
Macronutrients
Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates are our main source of energy. They are as essential for babies as they are for any adult. More commonly referred to as carbs, they help babies grow mentally and physically stronger.
Lactose is one of the most common types of carbohydrate. According to pediatricians, babies are born with the enzyme lactase that allows lactose to be easily digested.
Being European products, HiPP and Holle follow guidelines set by the EU Commission that requires 30% of nutrients in baby food formula to come from lactose. This makes organic, European baby food formulas a healthier option. Lactose also has these other benefits for babies:
- easy to digest carbohydrate
- assists in calcium absorption
- improves bone density and promotes bone growth
- maintains healthy gut bacteria
Holle – Holle uses a combination of two carbohydrates: lactose and maltodextrin. The latter is a slower-digesting carb that helps babies feel fuller over a longer period of time.
HiPP – Most HiPP baby formulas are entirely lactose based. However, some of their variants, such as HiPP Anti-Reflux Formula, also contain maltodextrin, which helps prevent reflux as it gives density to the food.
Protein
Protein is so important to growth that it’s often called the building nutrient. It helps with the following:
- muscle development
- hair and nail growth
- optimum secretion of hormones
- healthy development of the brain
There are two main types of protein: casein and whey. Whey tends to be a lot easier to digest and thus is more recommended for babies.
Holle – Holle’s baby formula is goat milk-based. Thus, it has more whey protein and is easier for babies to digest.
HiPP – HiPP has pioneered a baby food formula to mimic the protein ratio of breast milk. This does not mean HiPP is a substitute for breast milk, but it is likely the next best choice for your little one.
HiPP organic formula also contains protein hydrolysates that can help stabilize babies’ digestive system, which all parents know are quite susceptible to bacterial infections.
Micronutrients
Micronutrients are nutrients required in small amounts and help babies develop a strong immune system, a healthy digestive system, and general health.
Holle – Holle does not contain a very extensive list of micronutrients. While the formula is a high-quality one that parents can feel good about choosing, it should be complemented with additional supplements.
HiPP – When it comes to micronutrients, HiPP offers what Holle fails to deliver. HiPP contains all the necessary prebiotics and probiotics that are beneficial for growing babies and their immune systems.
DHA & ARA
DHA includes Omega-3 fatty acids while ARA includes Omega-6 fatty acids. Adults get DHA & ARA when they consume organic poultry, fish, and seafood.
Babies, however, require formula that can supplement their Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acid requirements, to encourage healthy growth of the brain, eyes, and nervous system.
Holle – Holle has recently introduced DHA & ARA into their baby formula in 2020.
HiPP – On the other hand, HiPP has always offered DHA & ARA in their baby formulas. Following the EU Commission’s guidelines, they have further increased the amount of DHA and ARA found in their product.
Organic Baby Formula Price
When considering the prices, HiPP (German) has a slight edge over Holle. Holle can cost anywhere between $0.24 to $0.28 per fluid ounce, while HiPP is often as low as $0.23 to $0.25 per fluid ounce.
Having said that, both Holle and HiPP organic baby formula contain the essential ingredients required for a baby’s nourishment and growth. Either one is an excellent choice for little ones, so in the end, personal preference and your baby’s needs will help you make the final decision about which one to choose.
Hi There! I see that they say “organic” however I don’t see the EU logo on the packaging for organic certification. Do you know anything about this? (specifically for the Holle packaging)
Thanks,
Audrey