Do toddlers even need toddler formula?

The short answer to this question is no, toddlers do not need toddler formula. Toddler formula is marketed as a nutritious option similar to regular milk but take that information with a grain of salt. At the 12 month mark, toddlers are eating several meals per day and should be getting most of their nutrition through food and a well-balanced diet. Incorporating this formula into your toddler’s diet is just added nutritional value that can replace whole milk if needed as extra vitamins are included.

Toddler milk vs cow’s milk

There are several reasons why one would opt for toddler milk over cow’s milk. The main reason would be a cow milk allergy or lactose intolerance. Since toddler milk can be plant based, it is an excellent option for children with allergies as a replacement. Other issues such as nutritional concerns, growth delays, medical conditions, or iron deficiency may influence your decision. Keep in mind that your child’s pediatrician should always be informed prior to starting toddler milk as they know your child’s health history!

Asides from medical concerns, there is a convenience that can be enticing to many parents much like myself. Toddler milk lasts longer, takes up less space, and can be cheaper than whole, fresh milk. Many parents like the added vitamins and minerals added to toddler milk that most regular milk doesn’t have.

On a personal note, I started out feeding my toddler regular cow’s milk at 12 months due to his high preference for milk. He would drink 1/5 gallon a day, yet I only had time to go food shopping once per week as a working mom. Now take that gallon and keep in mind that not only my son, but 2 adults were also drinking from it. Stashing 4 gallons of milk in my tiny refrigerator just wasn’t possible but 1 can of toddler milk? Very doable.

Actually comparing toddlers milk to cow’s milk by looking at the nutrition label, I did notice the following. Whole milk tends to be very similar to the toddler formulas when it comes to calories, fat content, and fiber, so not much of a difference there.

As for cholesterol and sodium, cow’s milk was significantly higher than its toddler milk counter parts! I was quite surprised by this but believe it can vary based upon the diet of the cow. Carbs and sugar were lower in the cow’s milk which was expected as most manufactured food products tend to be high in these areas. Protein was highly varied between brands – so not too much to comment on for that aspect.

This information can be good or bad, depending on what matters to you. For example, if you provide many vegetables and lean meats to your child, you might have a preference for a higher calorie milk as veggies and lean meat offer little fats, carbohydrates and sugars.

A child who is eating a wider variety of foods higher in fats and carbohydrates may benefit more from a leaner toddler formula. Each family has their own unique situation and choosing toddler formula or cow’s milk is specific to you!

Can toddlers drink infant formula?

Yes, they can, but it is not always recommended. This is because we want young children to be eating a variety of solid foods for a wide nutrient profile. Filling them up on infant formula can be counterintuitive and decrease your child’s motivation to try new foods as they will feel full and satisfied.

You may be asking yourself why it is ok for breastfeeding mothers to continue breastfeeding beyond 12 months but infant formula is discouraged, and this is a very logical question! The human body is amazing – so amazing that it knows your child’s nutritional needs. Human breast milk will change in it’s nutrient composition to suit your child as they age. A mother with a newborn will produce milk with a different nutrient profile than a mother with a toddler. So essentially, a mother breastfeeding a toddler is producing her own toddler milk in that sense. Nature knows how to do it’s job well!

What is the difference between toddler formula and infant formula?

There are quite a few differences between toddler and infant formula. The first difference is the nutrient profile. Because a toddler is not only older but larger than an infant, there will certainly be different amounts of nutrients in infant formula when compared to toddler drinks that are suited to age group. Toddler drinks contain higher amounts of calcium and phosphorus in order to support a growing child whereas infant formulas will offer a wider range of nutrients.

Infant formulas are FDA (Food and Drug Administration) regulated and are legally required to contain 29 specific nutrients in order to meet their nutritional needs. Toddler formula is not regulated, so it really comes down to whether or not you trust the company.

Can toddlers drink regular cow’s milk?

Yes! It is actually recommended that toddlers drink regular cow’s milk over some brands of toddler formula. This is due to quality differences between different brands. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends at least 16 ounces of whole cow’s milk per day on top of water.

What ingredients should you avoid in toddler milks?

When looking for the best toddler formula, it is important to know which harmful ingredients to look out for.

Corn syrup

This is essentially sugar, but at a lower cost. This causes manufacturers to use corn syrup over regular sugar in order to increase profit. Sugar/syrups in excess amounts is harmful to just about everyone, so make sure if this ingredient is present, it is only in small amounts.

GMO’s

Also known as genetically modified ingredients, GMO’s have been linked to blood cancers after prolonged exposure according the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). They are notoriously found in corn syrup!

Nitrates/nitrites

Formulas contain oils, and oils can spoil. Nitrates/nitrites are preservatives added to dramatically decrease the rate at which this happens. They also have been linked to several conditions effecting the blood, digestive system, nervous system, and thyroid.

Palm oil

Research suggests that palm oil in formula can prevent the absorption of fats and certain necessary minerals. It also can cause decreased bone mass later in life.

Carrageenan

According to several studies and the FDA, the United States deems carrageenan safe and found no negative impact to infants. However, it is banned in the use of formula in the EU which sparks some concern as they claim it inflames the intestine. It is most often used in pre-mixed, ready to use formula to prevent separation.

Soy

Some studies have shown that babies being fed soy based formulas accelerated puberty, caused developmental problems, reproductive issues and thyroid conditions later in life. Other studies found no negative impacts from soy based formulas, so use your best judgement!

What nutritional benefits should you look for in toddler formula?

The first thing you should look for in a toddler formula is an ingredients list with nothing from the harmful ingredient list above.

Another thing to look out for in cow milk-based formula is the type of casein protein as there are 2 most commonly present on the market; A1 and A2. Look for a toddler formula with A2 milk made from grass-fed cows as their milk contains more nutrients and is much easier to digest. Recent studies also suggest that A1 milk may be linked to autism.

Asides from that, always look for formulas high in vitamins, DHA (for brain development), healthy fats, minerals, nucleotides, and prebiotics. Organic lactose should be the number one ingredient. Make sure the formula is manufactured by a good company that does rigorous quality testing and has a Clean Label Purity Award on their packaging. These awards are only given to companies with the best manufacturing practices!

How long should you give toddler milk for?

Toddler milk is marketed for use for 12-36 months of age. Toddler milk should NEVER be given to an infant under 12 months of age!

The Best Toddler Formulas of 2024

I chose the best toddler formulas of 2024 by looking at nutritional content, avoiding harmful ingredients and of course, toddler preference. At the end of day, you can have the healthiest, safest toddler milk ready for your toddler but if they don’t like it, they’re not drinking it!  

First, let’s analyze nutritional content. The chart below compares each formula (prepared with 8 oz water) to 8 ounces of whole cow’s milk for reference. The nutritional content in one toddler drink may be ideal for one child, but not ideal for the next. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again – always consult your pediatrician!