As a new parent, decision-making becomes a full-time job–this can be especially difficult when it comes to how you choose to feed your little one.

If you have been considering European baby formulas, you have probably heard of HiPP formula and Holle formula—two leading brands made with clean ingredients, which provide the building blocks to nourishing your little one.

To help guide your decision-making process, we’ll explain the key features and variances between HiPP and Holle formulas. Keep reading for a deep dive into uncovering information about these formulas to help you customize your baby’s feeding routine!

A Quick Look at HiPP Formula Ingredients

HiPP has a reputation for specially crafting formulas that resemble breast milk based on the latest advances in infant nutrition science. Here’s what you can expect to find in their formulas!

Key Ingredients in HiPP Formulas Include:

Prebiotics – Human milk contains oligosaccharides, which are prebiotics. HiPP baby formula regularly includes galacto-oligosaccharides (GOS) prebiotics sourced from lactose, similar to the oligosaccharides in breast milk–they support the development of healthy intestinal microflora.

Probiotics – Probiotics are beneficial gut bacteria. Cultures of lactobacillus probiotics are found in most HiPP formulas and also in breast milk. They help to balance the intestinal microflora of babies to support digestive health and immunity.

Lactose – Lactose is a naturally occurring sugar in milk and the main carbohydrate in breast milk. All HiPP formulas feature lactose as the primary carbohydrate, as it’s natural and well tolerated by delicate developing tummies.

Organic Milk – HiPP milk is EU organic certified and sourced from natural pastures with animals raised on a 100% organic diet. As an exception, HiPP carries a range of specialty formulas (AR, Comfort, and HA) that are not organic since they undergo special processing to make them suitable for unique dietary needs. However, like all HiPP formulas, they are GMO-free and made with the same high-quality standards.

DHA and ARA – Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) is an omega-3 essential fatty acid, and arachidonic acid (ARA) is an omega-6. They are included in all HiPP formulas to support brain development and vision. The DHA used in HiPP formula is sourced from fish oils.

What About Holle Formula Ingredients?

Holle formulas are best known for their clean ingredients and simple minimally processed recipes. Unlike HiPP, more advanced ingredients like prebiotics and probiotics are not used.

Key Ingredients Used in Holle Formula Include:

Lactose – Like HiPP, lactose is the main carbohydrate in Holle organic formula. It provides little ones with energy and supports their bone growth and development. Lactose is also known for being easy to digest and promoting gut health.

Organic Milk – High-quality organic milk from certified organic farms is used in all Holle formulas. However, Holle takes it a step further than HiPP with their Demeter-certified formulas. Demeter certification embraces the strictest standards worldwide. Demeter prohibits dehorning animals, which, in turn, can create more nutrient-rich milk!

Whole Goat Milk – While HiPP goat milk formula is based on skimmed milk, Holle Goat uses whole milk. One advantage of this is that whole goat milk mimics breast milk more closely and ensures the recipe is palm oil-free!

DHA and ARA – Holle Goat uses DHA from algae as a plant-based alternative to fish oil. Algae-derived DHA is eco-friendly and offers a milder taste. While DHA is in all Holle formulas, ARA is only found in Stages PRE and 1 and the complete Holle Goat Global range.

Differences & Similarities Between HiPP and Holle

As is apparent by the nutritional breakdown, both Holle and HiPP baby formulas are excellent choices for nourishing your baby. However, some differences may lead you to prefer one brand over another. Here is a quick comparison of the brands:

HiPP vs Holle Formula Similarities

• Lactose is the main carbohydrate in HiPP and Holle, and there are formulas available with lactose-only compositions.
• Both may include complementary carbohydrates starting at Stage 2. HiPP typically adds starch, and Holle usually adds starch and maltodextrin.
• Both are EU organic certified except for the line of special formulas from HiPP, which are non-organic.
• Both include DHA in all formulas, as the law requires for European baby formulas.
• Both European formulas offer cow or goat milk-based options.

Holle vs HiPP Formula Differences

• Most Holle formulas also have the Demeter Certification.
• HiPP organic formulas also have the HiPP organic seal.
• HiPP often uses a combination of pre and probiotics. Holle formulas do not have these ingredients.
• HiPP uses DHA from fish oil, and Holle uses DHA from algae.
• Holle only adds ARA in Stages PRE, 1, and their Global range, whereas HiPP uses it in all of their formulas.
• HiPP makes specialty formulas, but Holle does not make any.
• Holle has a range of A2 cow’s milk formulas, but HiPP only has regular cow’s milk formulas with A1 proteins.
• All HiPP formulas are made with skim milk, but Holle Goat formulas are made with whole milk.

Which Organic Baby Formula is the Right Fit for Your Baby: HiPP or Holle?

Choosing to use HiPP or Holle depends on your baby’s nutritional needs, your preferences as a parent, and, importantly, the advice of a doctor. Laid out here are a few scenarios for you to consider that may sway your decision on which brand to choose.

Your Baby Has Special Dietary Needs – Only HiPP offers a variety of specialty formulas, including HiPP Hypoallergenic (HA), Anti-Reflux, and Comfort, which can help manage health issues under your pediatrician’s supervision.

You Wish to Avoid Fish Oil – Whether you prefer to steer clear of fish oil due to allergies or personal preferences, all Holle formulas use algae in place of the fish oil commonly found in HiPP organic formula.

You Prefer Whole Milk – HiPP formulas, both goat and cow only use skimmed milk as a base. Holle Goat milk formulas, on the other hand, are made with whole milk, which contains healthy milk fats and avoids the inclusion of palm oil.

Your Baby Does Well With Lactose – Both HiPP and Holle have options for 100% lactose-based formulas, including HiPP Goat milk, HiPP Dutch, HiPP HA, HiPP AR, and Holle Goat Global!

Where to Buy HiPP and Holle Formula?

If you’re looking for an easy, reliable, and stress-free way to shop for HiPP and Holle baby formula, look no further than Organic’s Best. Having served 130,000 families and counting Organic’s Best is a trusted retailer to get your European baby formulas from. Check out some of the reasons parents love this family-run shop:

• Bulk Order Discounts – Save money and time by purchasing bundles of 6 or more containers of formula at a discounted price!
• Climate-Controlled Warehouse – Stored at an optimal temperature, your baby’s formula remains fresh and safe.
• Fast Shipping – Receive your Organic’s Best order in speedy 2-5 business days.
• Expert Guidance – The customer care team offers personalized service from medical doctors to help you find your perfect match.

HiPP and Holle are excellent choices for organic baby formulas that are inspired by nature, nutrient-rich, and consciously crafted. With dependable retailers like Organic’s Best Shop, parents can confidently provide their babies with the best of Europe—shop HiPP and Holle at Organic’s Best today!