When breastmilk is not an option, choosing a reliable baby formula is an important first step on the journey to finding nutrition that is perfect for your baby.
Your little one's diet impacts growth and development today and plays a significant role in forming their foundation of health into adulthood.
To help you along this path, My Organic Company has put together information on the benefits of European infant nutrition and highlighted two of the most popular brands in the organic baby formula industry, HiPP and Holle.
What is organic formula?
Both HiPP and Holle are EU certified organic formulas. But what does this mean?
Non-organic formulas can cause nervous system damage, lung damage, and immune system disruption. However, Organic baby formula is a safer and healthier option for children. No harmful chemicals, sweeteners, or hormones are added.
Moreover, milk does not come from genetically modified cows and can help your child avoid many long-term health problems that sprung up during childhood. Organic formulas are rich in lutein and antioxidants and do not contain any heavy metal.
Why European Formulas?
For those in the United States, you might wonder why to take the trouble to buy imported formulas in the first place. There are several reasons parents are switching to European Organic formulas vs. American Formulas.
There are only three primary producers of organic baby formula in the US, and pharmaceutical businesses own them. These formulas are specialized in using chemicals and unnatural preservatives – as medicine is their field of interest. American companies have questionable owners, and mindful parents should stay away from these sketchy companies.
Our Overall Favorite HiPP
Our Favorite for Cow's Milk Allergies
Are these brands legit?
Both of these companies have a long history of guaranteed quality and clean ingredients. Both practice sustainable farming and source their milk from grass-fed cows. With the wide selection of products, you will be able to solve all your baby's needs.
For the wellbeing of infants, both Holle and HiPP believe in providing only the best quality to promote natural baby development.
Additionally, HiPP and Holle are transparent about their sourcing, producing, and ingredients—unlike most over-the-counter brands. If you care about quality and your baby's health, it doesn't get any better than these two companies.
With EU Organic certification and supporting local farmers—these two companies care about babies, their employees, and the environment. There is no doubt that these two companies are legit due to their excellent production standards.
HiPP
Holle
Ingredients/Features
The selection of ingredients impacts your baby's health in all aspects. This is why carefully selected, safe, and regulated ingredients are a must. Fortunately, both HiPP and Holle meet these three essential standards. Let's dissect these two formulas and discover their macronutrient sources and nutrition facts.
Carbohydrates
When it comes to baby formulas, the carbohydrate source is arguably the most important. It provides your baby with the nutrients it needs to thrive and have the energy to fight off diseases.
The best carbohydrate choice in formulas is lactose—this is a carbohydrate found in breastmilk.
Lactose provides infants with much-needed energy and supports their physical and mental health. Additionally, lactose maintains healthy gut flora and helps babies to absorb nutrients.
Unlike the US, the European Commission requires 30% of carbs in formulas that come from lactose. The United States has no standard to make their formulas as cheap as possible.
HiPP – All HiPP baby formulas are lactose-based (except HiPP anti-reflex, which contains maltodextrin to support babies with sensitive stomachs.)
Holle – Holle Stage Pre is 100% lactose-based. On the other hand, Holle Goat milk Stage 1 & 2 use a combination of lactose and maltodextrin.
Protein
Babies could not survive without this essential macro. Protein helps babies grow and nourishes their bodies. This is why it is necessary to feed your baby the proper source of protein. The best protein sources mimic the structure of breastmilk.
Cow's milk contains 80% casein and 20% whey, while breastmilk contains 40% casein and 60% whey. Casein can be difficult for infants to process. To support infant digestion, both of these companies create specially engineered formulas to mimic breastmilk components.
HiPP – The protein source follows a protein ratio similar to breast milk. HiPP baby formula is designed to help those with sensitive stomachs are blended whit 100% Whey.
Holle – Each formula contains a balanced whey casein protein ratio. By choosing Holle Goat milk, babies with digestion issues will find it comforting. We recommend Holle if your baby suffers from a cow's milk protein intolerance.
Prebiotics & Probiotics
The best organic baby formulas add prebiotics and probiotics. Why? Because they help keep healthy gut bacteria growing. Additionally, pre and probiotics strengthen the immune system, reduce colic, prevent eczema, and help overall digestion.
HiPP – All combiotik formulas contain prebiotics to support digestion. Note that anti-reflux, HiPP Dutch Formula stage 1 & 2, and hypoallergic formulas contain BOTH prebiotics and probiotics.
Holle – Unlike HiPP, Holle Organic Formula does not contain prebiotics or probiotics. To maintain a short, clean list of ingredients, they opt out of adding too many supplements.
DHA & ARA
Both Omega-3 (ALA & DHA) and Omega-6 (ARA) fatty acids support brain health, muscle development, nerve function, vision, and the immune system. These two beneficial ingredients are not required to be in US formulas, but as of 2020, Europe made it a requirement in infant formulas.
HiPP – Every HiPP formula is jam-packed with Omega-6s, while beginning stage formulas contain both DHA & ARA. These fatty acids are derived from safe sources such as vegetable oil and fish oil.
Holle – Holle organic baby formula contains DHA and ARA in accordance to the EU 2020 updated regulations. Like HiPP, they are also derived from fish oil.
Organic Grass-Fed
Europe's organic EU standards are better than formulas made in the United States. Both HiPP and Holle are EU certified organic.
HiPP – All HiPP formulas are EU certified organic except their sensitive versions like HiPP Anti-reflux, HiPP comfort, and hypoallergenic. These include protein hydrolysates to support digestion, which requires more processing. Please note, they are still made with organic ingredients, to include organic grass-fed cow's milk.
Holle – Holle meets all EU organic certification and is Demeter biodynamic certified. They come from the highest level of accreditation from biodynamic farms. This requires Holle to have an annual renewal, ecosystem preservation, animal welfare guarantees, biodiversity support, and much more.
Holle meets the highest environmental and animal welfare standards in the world!
Variety
All formula brands have a selection of different stages and specialties—but HiPP and Holle go above and beyond. Both companies are continually working to develop the best organic baby formulas.
HiPP – Many options are available with HiPP organic formula. These formulas include anti-reflux, hypoallergenic, Biodynamic, and more. Also, this company has a variety of stages to support your baby through all their growth periods. Many mothers love the variety of this brand and choose HiPP because of the wide selection.
Holle – While having a wide selection like HiPP, Holle baby formula has one formula option HiPP does not have. Goat milk formulas are high demand for their excellent benefits. These goat milk formulas are easier for babies who have a difficult time digesting cow's milk proteins. They also have regular cow's milk formulas if you want to spend less money on formula.
Palm Oil
This ingredient has been receiving negative attention within the last few years. Many are concerned with palm oil because some studies link it to reducing bone density.
Both HiPP and Holle use palm oil in their formulas; however, these brands use a blend of many different oils (such as coconut, sunflower, and vegetable oil), and the amount is not enough to harm your baby.
Dangers of soy – These formulas opt-out
This ingredient can damage your baby's health and stun growth. Soy has been proven (even when organic) to devastate the development of the brain and nerves.
Trypsin Inhibitors are found in soybeans and cause this harmful effect. Furthermore, phytic acid is present in soybeans; this irritates the digestive tract. Phytic acid can also result in zinc deficiency, as it blocks minerals within the digestion system.
Also, phytoestrogens (or isoflavones) are found in soy and can disrupt an infant's hormonal system continuing into adulthood. This is why you should refrain from soy in your baby’s diet. If you would like more information on this, check out our soy article!
Stages (Month for each stage, size of boxes, feeding oz per bottle estimate.)
Each formula contains a balanced selection of nutrients designed to promote infant health. Each of these unique formulas has a distinct feeding chart. To view how to formulate both HiPP and Holle for your baby, consider this handy guide.
Pros/Cons
HiPP
PROS HiPP
- Lactose is the primary protein/sweetener
- HiPP has a wide variety of formulas to meet different needs and stages
- HiPP is EU approved and is sold all across the EU
- Reduced Heavy metals
- GMO-Free
- High in essential fatty acids
- Low content of mycotoxins (when compared to other brands)
- Free from pesticides and other chemicals
- Organic, grass-fed practices
- Gentle for babies with sensitive stomachs
- Great breastmilk substitute and can be used alongside it
- Contains prebiotics (and probiotics depending on the formula)
- NO wheat, soy, or peanut ingredients
- Gluten-free
CONS HiPP
- Contains Palm Oil
- High In aluminum levels
- Pricey for some families
- You can only buy online
Holle
PROS Holle
- Organic & GMO-free
- No chemicals, preservatives, hormones, or steroids
- The formula is similar to breastmilk and can be used to supplement it (or alongside it.)
- Easy on digestion and eases constipation.
- It is nutritionally balanced with added vitamins, minerals, and iron.
- Grass-fed cows are treated sustainably
- Plentiful in natural essential fatty acids
- Option to choose cow's milk or goat's milk
- No corn syrup or additives
- Biodynamic and certified by Biolands
- NO wheat, soy, or peanut ingredients
- Gluten-free
CONS Holle
- Contains palm oil
- Online purchase only
- Multiple stages of formula (can't use only one formula for newborns to 12 months)
- Contains maltodextrin (in some versions)
- Can be pricey when compared to other organic baby milk brands
Cost Comparison HiPP Formula v. Holle Formula
European baby formula brands HiPP and Holle are sourced from the very best ingredients, use only traceable organic farms and never take shortcuts with inexpensive filler and additives.
These practices are priceless when it comes to your baby's health and development but, how does it affect the bottom line when it comes to cost?
What many parents are pleased to find out is that European organic baby formulas are very affordable and comparable to over-the-counter organic formulas found in the U.S.
Holle
There is a small price difference between Holle cow milk based formulas and Holle goat milk based formulas.
HiPP
The price per fluid ounce depends on the country of origin and need for special dietary requirement formulas such as HiPP HA and HiPP Anti-Reflux.
Below is a chart of price per fluid ounce in both HiPP and Holle brands:
Please note, prices per box are calculated based on the single box subscribe and save price. You can save even more by ordering in the 6/12 pack quantities.
| Formula | Package Size | Scoop Size | Total Fluid Ounces | Cost Per Box | Cost Per Fluid Ounce |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| HiPP German PRE | 600 g | 4.3 g | 140 oz | $37.04 | $0.26 |
| HiPP German 1 | 600 g | 4.4 g | 135 oz | $37.04 | $0.27 |
| HiPP German 2 | 600 g | 4.5 g | 132 oz | $37.04 | $0.28 |
| HiPP German 2 (No Starch) | 600 g | 4.5 g | 132 oz | $37.04 | $0.28 |
| HiPP German 3 | 600 g | 4.5 g | 132 oz | $37.04 | $0.28 |
| HiPP Kindermilch 1yr+ | 600 g | 3.6 g | 165 oz | $37.04 | $0.22 |
| HiPP Kindermilch 2yr+ | 600 g | 3.5g | 171 oz | $37.04 | $0.22 |
| HiPP HA PRE | 600 g | 4.3 g | 140 oz | $38.94 | $0.28 |
| HiPP HA 1 | 600 g | 4.6 g | 130 oz | $38.94 | $0.30 |
| HiPP HA 2 | 600 g | 4.7 g | 128 oz | $38.94 | $0.30 |
| HiPP Comfort | 500 g | 4.3 g | 116 oz | $37.04 | $0.32 |
| HiPP AR | 500 g | 4.3 g | 116 oz | $37.04 | $0.32 |
| HiPP UK 1 | 800 g | 4.3 g | 186 oz | $38.94 | $0.21 |
| HiPP UK 2 | 800 g | 4.7 g | 171 oz | $38.94 | $0.22 |
| HiPP UK 3 | 600 g | 3.6 g | 165 oz | $38.94 | $0.23 |
| HiPP Dutch 1 | 800 g | 4.3 g | 186 oz | $45.59 | $0.25 |
| HiPP Dutch 2 | 800 g | 4.5 g | 177 oz | $45.59 | $0.26 |
| HiPP Dutch 3 | 800 g | 4.0 g | 200 oz | $45.59 | $0.23 |
| Formula | Package Size | Scoop Size | Total Fluid Ounces | Cost Per Box | Cost Per Fluid Ounce |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Holle Cow PRE | 400 g | 4.4 g | 90 oz | $27.54 | $0.31 |
| Holle Cow 1 | 400 g | 4.4 g | 90 oz | $25.64 | $0.28 |
| Holle Cow 2 | 600 g | 4.5 g | 132 oz | $31.34 | $0.24 |
| Holle Cow 3 | 600 g | 4.4 g | 135 oz | $31.34 | $0.27 |
| Holle Cow 4 | 600 g | 4.7 g | 127 oz | $31.34 | $0.25 |
| Holle Goat 1 | 400 g | 4.4 g | 96 oz | $32.29 | $0.34 |
| Holle Goat 2 | 400 g | 4.5 g | 96 oz | $32.29 | $0.34 |
| Holle Goat 3 | 400 g | 4.4 g | 96 oz | $32.29 | $0.34 |
HiPP and Holle price per ounces are very similar with Holle goat milk based formula falling at the top end of the pricing and HiPP Dutch and HiPP formulas are the most cost effective.
About HiPP & Holle
HiPP History
HiPP was founded in 1899 by Joseph Hipp, a baker who prioritized his many children. His wife, Maria Oster, had trouble breastfeeding—so the father solved the issue. He was a baker and enriched the milk with rusk flour to make it more filling. His large family lived, and he had over seven children!
In 1970, the rusk flour for infants was still widely available on the German market. Georg Hipp decided to begin manufacturing this wholesome formula, and the HiPP brand grew larger. HiPP creates many products, such as juices, foods, meats, and whole-grain fruit pops.
While this was happening, Georg HiPP began to source from organic farms only. Now, the company’s priority still stays true to its mission statement—to produce healthy, tasty, baby formula from safe ingredients.
Holle History
For over 80 years, Holle has created organic formulas in Demeter quality. Founded in 1933, this company currently resides in Riehen, Switzerland. Their selection of products has been free from preservatives since the beginning of their company.
With a wide variety of products, including milk, formula, porridges, and much more! Within the last 35 years, Holle has been available in over 40 countries across Europe. With the holistic quality and wholesome ingredients—Holle makes a perfect formula for all infants.
Conclusion
When concerning optimal infant health, it is best to provide your child with the best formula. These first months of life are what define how they will live the rest of their life. Unlike standard formulas, organic formulas (such as HiPP and Holle) contain natural, safe ingredients.
Well respected European baby formula companies HiPP and Holle provide infant nutrition that is ecologically thoughtful and are sourced by the highest standards.
HiPP provides more options, while Holle offers exceptional farming practices. View the pros and cons, and decide what you think will be best for your infant's needs.
My Organic Company proudly carries formulas from HiPP and Holle to support your little ones in every stage of development, age, and nutritional need.
If you would like additional information on each brand, check out our Ultimate HiPP Guide and our Ultimate Holle Guide.
And as always, feel free to leave comments below!