Sign up to Get 2 FREE Boxes/Cans
Offering new parents top-quality European infant formula from renowned brands like HiPP, Holle, Kendamil, and more. If you’re uncertain about which product to choose, our Formula Finder can help you make the best decision for your baby.
Offering new parents a premium selection of European baby foods, including jars, pouches, cereals, and snacks from esteemed brands like HiPP and Holle.
by Jennifer Fernandez November 13, 2023 8 min read
There has been a noticeable surge in the popularity of goat milk formula for babies as an alternative to traditional cow's milk formula. When it comes to goat milk alternatives, parents are largely enticed by the potential digestibility benefits of goat milk.
In this comprehensive comparison, we'll delve into the world of Nannycare and Holle goat milk formula—two bestselling European baby formulas made with goat milk powder—diving deep into their ingredients, unique traits, benefits and more. So make sure to keep reading for the information you need to make an informed decision about Nannycare vs Holle Goat, and may the best goat milk formula win!
Table of contents
As more parents seek natural and wholesome alternatives for their infants, goat milk baby formula has steadily gained recognition as a viable choice in infant nutrition, but why? In this section, we'll answer this question.
One of the key differentiators between goat milk infant formula and cow's milk formulas is the composition of their proteins, particularly the Alpha S1 Casein (A1 milk protein). In cow milk, this protein is present in higher quantities, resulting in the formation of larger and firmer curds. These curds, however, can be more challenging for an infant's delicate digestive system to break down. On the other hand, goat milk proteins are naturally A2 beta-casein (A2 milk protein), which produces a softer curd, making goat milk infant formula a gentler choice.
Another digestive advantage of goat milk is its lower lactose content in comparison to cow milk formula. This reduced lactose level makes goat milk an easier choice for infants with lactose sensitivity. However, as lactose is still present, it's not suitable for lactose-intolerant babies.
Finally, goat milk formula often provides more readily available palm oil-free options. This is because whole goat milk powder, the base of choice for many goat milk infant formulas, naturally contains high levels of palmitic acid, which eliminates the need for added palm oil.
The composition of ingredients is paramount in determining the quality and suitability of a baby formula. Dive into a side-by-side comparison of Nannycare and Holle's goat milk formulas to see what makes them stand out and how Holle formulas differ from Nannycare's!
1) Organic Ingredients 🌿
Nannycare: Nannycare's formula is not certified organic. However, it is GMO-free. Nannycare places a strong emphasis on the natural diet and well-being of its animals. Their goats thrive on a diet of locally grown grass and natural pasture plants.
Holle: The German and Dutch versions of Holle Goat, on the other hand, boast organic certification in accordance with European Union (EU) organic and Demeter biodynamic standards. This certification ensures that the ingredients in their organic goat milk formulas meet strict organic farming criteria, emphasizing sustainable and holistic agricultural practices.
However, because of the stipulations set by the Demeter association, there is no follow-on milk for 12+ months with a Demeter label. As a result, Holle provides products of EU organic quality instead.
Moreover, Holle Goat USA maintains the same quality standards as their European products with the EU organic and Demeter certifications. However, due to the Europe-USA (NOP) agreement excluding animal-based products like dairy, they cannot bear the organic/Demeter labels in the US.
2) Goat Milk 🐐
Holle: Holle takes pride in being the only formula made from goat milk in Demeter quality. Holle's organic goat milk formula is also vegetarian, appealing to those seeking an organic formula that aligns with their dietary choices. Utilizing whole goat's milk as the primary ingredient and primary source of fat, the recipes naturally acquire a creamy texture with reduced reliance on vegetable oils.
Nannycare: All Nannycare formulas are crafted from 100% natural, full-cream goat's milk. Nannycare emphasizes the use of whole goat milk as the main ingredient, with no skimmed milk or added whey powder. This choice not only contributes to a delicate aroma and creamy taste but also provides a rich nutritional profile.
3) Natural Prebiotics 💓
Holle: This formula benefits from the natural prebiotic properties of goat's milk.
Nannycare: Their goat milk formula contains even higher levels of oligosaccharides, boasting ten times more compared to cow's milk. This greater diversity of oligosaccharides can provide additional support for your baby's developing digestive system.
4) Fats and Oils 🌻
Holle: Holle relies on organic vegetable oils in combination with goat's milk fat to provide the necessary saturated fatty acids. Specifically, they utilize sunflower oil and rapeseed oil.
Nannycare: Nannycare emphasizes the use of whole milk as the primary ingredient and contains a fat blend of high oleic sunflower oil, rapeseed oil, and sunflower oil. Finally, Nannycare goat milk naturally contains milk fat globules surrounded by a Milk Fat Globule Membrane (MFGM), akin to breast milk fat!
5) No-Go Ingredients ❌
Now that we have covered some of the beneficial ingredients found in Holle and Nannycare goat milk formula, let's take a look at what you won't find in their formulas.
Nannycare Formula:
Maltodextrin
Whey
Skim milk
Genetically modified organisms (GMOs)
Corn syrup
Palm oil
Soy
Holle Formula:
Palm oil or fish oil
GMOs
Artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives
Skim milk
Corn syrup
Soy
Nannycare takes a meticulous approach to ensure that their formula's protein composition is gentle on a baby's digestive system. Unlike other goat milk formulas, their milk is sourced exclusively from specialist farms dedicated to goat milk production for their formulas.
This careful selection process is crucial in creating soft curds that readily disintegrate in babies' tummies for easier digestion. The softness of curds in goat milk can vary, which is why Nannycare is committed to using specially-suited goat milk that undergoes stringent quality control to ensure consistency.
This attention to detail extends from the selection of goats to their diet, which consists of grass and natural forage. The entire production process, including the gentle transportation of Nannycare milk, is designed to preserve its nutritional qualities.
Holle's goat milk formula relies on the goat's milk fat to provide essential saturated fatty acids. Unlike cow's milk, the saturated fatty acids in goat's milk are short and medium chain, making them more easily absorbable by a baby's sensitive body. This characteristic is favorable for infant nutrition as it eases the digestive process.
Moreover, Holle goat milk, like Nannycare, naturally contains the A2 protein. The A2 protein is known for its potential to be easier on sensitive digestive systems, particularly for those who may experience discomfort with A1 beta-casein.
Both Nannycare and Holle utilize specialized processing methods to guarantee their formulas are of the highest quality and designed to be gentle on your baby's system. Let's have a closer look at some summary points about each brand!
Nannycare's processing is all about simplicity. They use whole goat milk, avoiding whey powders that are often added unnecessarily in goat milk formula. This approach minimizes multiple heat cycles, creating a formula that's closer to its natural source. By skipping goat whey powder, they reduce the potential for allergenic β-lactoglobulin. Clinical trials support their non-whey adjusted formula, which even contributed to a change in UK regulations in 2014!
Holle prioritizes gentle processing using Demeter milk, known for its exceptional quality due to organic and biodynamic farming. Their organic baby formula is tested to ensure a high standard of ingredients. Holle also takes environmental responsibility seriously, ensuring all their formula packaging is climate-positive!
The two brands provide a range of formulas that cover the spectrum from infancy to toddlerhood. This approach mirrors the dynamic nature of breast milk, which adapts to cater to a baby's evolving requirements as they grow. Different phases of a baby's development call for varying levels of certain vitamins and minerals, as well as adjustments in energy requirements.
Nannycare Goat milk formula is available in the following stages...
Nannycare Formula Stage 1 (From Birth)
Nannycare Formula Stage 2 (From 6 Months)
Nannycare Formula Stage 3 (From 12 Months)
Holle Goat milk formula is available in the following stages...
Holle Goat Milk Stage PRE (0 to 6 months)
Holle Goat Milk Stage 1 (0 to 6 months)
Holle Goat Milk Stage 2 (6+ months)
Holle Goat Milk Stage 3 (10+ months)
Holle Goat Milk Stage 4 (12+ months)
Regardless of the stage, goat milk formula is known for its digestibility. Goat milk protein is naturally smaller and naturally easier to digest compared to cow milk protein. This characteristic makes it so that many infants tolerate goat milk formulas better than cow milk formulas.
However, it's crucial to note that goat milk formula, like cow milk formula, is not suitable for babies with lactose intolerance or Cow's Milk Protein Allergy (CMPA). Lactose intolerance is characterized by an inability to digest lactose, a sugar found in both cow milk and goat milk formula. CMPA, on the other hand, is an allergy to the milk proteins that are present in both cow's and goat's milk. For babies with these specific dietary requirements, alternative formulas may be more suitable.
Nannycare's focus on gentle processing and commitment to using whole goat milk may be appealing to those seeking minimal processing and closer adherence to the natural source of milk. Additionally, Nannycare's clinical trials and success in influencing regulations demonstrate the safety and efficacy of their formula.
Holle, on the other hand, emphasizes organic and biodynamic farming practices and climate positivity. Additionally, the use of Demeter milk ensures premium ingredients. Holle formula also comes in a larger range of stages to meet babies' needs at different ages.
Ultimately, choosing between Nannycare vs Holle baby formula really comes down to preference, as both are great alternatives to breast milk if you're in the market for a top-quality goat milk formula!
Is Nannycare formula good?
Absolutely! Nannycare stands out as a premium goat milk-based formula choice for babies. Renowned for its gentle, nutrient-packed, and easily digestible composition, it's a favorite among discerning parents and contented babies alike.
Is Holle goat milk formula safe?
Absolutely! Holle's goat milk formula follows strict European infant nutrition standards as well as additional EU organic and Demeter biodynamic regulations. Goat milk-based formulas, in general, have been accepted as a suitable milk source for infant formula by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) since 2012.
How is goat milk formula different than cow's milk formula?
Goat milk formula contains smaller fat globules and different protein structures than cow's milk formula, making it easier to digest for some babies. Additionally, its unique composition often results in a milder taste and fewer allergenic proteins compared to cow's milk.
Is goat milk formula better for babies?
While cow milk formula is commonly recommended for most healthy babies, goat milk can serve as a great alternative for those who don't have lactose intolerance or CMPA. The best choice always depends on the individual baby's needs and your pediatrician's approval.
Nannycare and Holle have some of the best goat milk formulas on the market today. When choosing between the two, consider your values, whether it's a focus on minimal processing, organic ingredients, or environmental responsibility.
Both formulas offer high-quality nutrition for your child's development. Your baby's health and well-being should always be the top priority, and choosing the formula that aligns with those needs is the most crucial factor in this decision!
Disclaimer:
Please be aware that this information is based on general trends in babies, and it is not medical advice. Your doctor should be your first source of information and advice when considering any changes to your child’s formula and when choosing your child’s formula. Always consult your pediatrician before making any decisions about your child’s diet or if you notice any changes in your child. Breastfeeding is the best nutrition for your baby because breast milk provides your child with all the essential nutrients they need for growth and development. Please consult your pediatrician if your child requires supplemental feeding. |
Comments will be approved before showing up.
by Jennifer Fernandez November 28, 2023 9 min read
Read Moreby Jennifer Fernandez November 21, 2023 9 min read
Read Moreby Jennifer Fernandez November 14, 2023 7 min read
Read More