Guide to Baby Formula
Explore our guide to baby formula and learn more about the difference between newborn formula and stage 2 formula.
What is baby formula?
Baby formula is a specially designed food product for infants. It is used as a substitute for breast milk when a baby is formula fed. It provides essential nutrients required for a baby’s growth and development, containing proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and other minerals. Baby formula comes in various types, including cow's milk-based, soy-based, and specialised formulas tailored to meet specific dietary needs. These formulas are carefully regulated to meet very high nutritional and safety standards required for infant growth and development. Fortified with essential vitamins and minerals, baby formula is made for bottle-feeding to support your baby’s healthy growth and development from birth onwards. The Australian Government recommends baby formula as the only suitable alternative to breast milk for babies until 12 months of age.
What are the types of baby formula?
Baby formula can be split into three categories based on age and special dietary needs.
Infant formula ‘From Birth’
Also referred to as a “Starter Infant Formula”, “Newborn formula” or "Stage 1 formula”. Starter baby formulas contain all the essential vitamins and minerals that a baby will need up until around 6 months of age – when solid foods are introduced. Once solids are introduced, your baby moves on from a single source of nutrition (breast milk or baby formula) to an increasingly diversified diet. A starter baby formula can be used from birth and can continue through to 12 months of age.
Follow-on formula ‘From 6 months'
Also often referred to as "Stage 2 formula”. A follow-on formula can be used from 6 months of age and continued until 12 months. It has a slightly different nutrient profile compared to a starter baby formula, as older infants have slightly different nutritional requirements and have started to receive other nutrition through solid foods. Stage 2 baby formula supports the increased nutritional needs of older infants, complementing their growing dietary variety.
Specialised baby formulas
These baby formulas cater to infants with specific health needs. They are not suitable for general use and should be used under medical supervision. There are different kinds of specialised formulas. Hypoallergenic formulas may be recommended when there is an allergy to cow’s milk protein, in place of an intact cow’s milk protein formula; lactose-intolerant formulas may be recommended in cases of lactose intolerance or for a short period of time after gastroenteritis; anti-regurgitation or anti-reflux formulas are specifically designed for infants with regurgitation. There are also some nutrient-enriched formulas for conditions like prematurity, but these are only used within hospitals.
For formula-fed babies, we understand how important it is to provide the right nutrition at every stage of their development. Breast milk provides the best source of nutrition for babies, however we understand it’s not always possible for all babies to be breastfed. Choosing the right infant formula is a big decision, and your healthcare professional will be able to provide you tailored advice regarding which infant formula is best for your baby.
Frequently Asked Questions about Baby Formula
When should babies start using formula?
Breast milk is best for babies and provides the ideal source of nutrition for infants. At the same time, optimal breastfeeding is not possible for every family. It is recommended to consult with your healthcare professional when deciding how to feed your baby, as they can provide guidance and support based on your family and baby’s specific needs and circumstances. Where a decision has been made not to breastfeed or to partially breastfeed, baby formula is the only suitable alternative. Starter (or Stage 1) baby formula is designed to be suitable for babies from birth.
What is baby formula made from?
Most baby formulas are made from cow’s milk, with added nutrients that meet specific needs of an infant. All infant formulas in Australia must meet strict food regulation standards as set by Food Standards Australia & New Zealand. These food standards stipulate a minimum and maximum level for nutrients and some products also contain permitted additional ingredients. The ingredient list on each tin will provide exactly what your infant formula is made from. Baby formula ingredients depend on the type of baby formula you choose. Infant formulas are a combination of essential nutrients, including proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals.
Can I mix formula and breast milk?
Yes, you can use formula as a supplement to breast milk, however it is not recommended you mix these together in a single feed unless under medical supervision. If you are concerned that your baby is not getting enough breast milk, consult with your healthcare professional to get the right advice and support to ensure your baby's nutritional needs are being met. A decision to introduce partial bottle feeding could reduce your supply of breast milk. Once reduced, it may be difficult to re-establish, so bear this in mind when deciding how to feed your baby. Whether you're transitioning from breastfeeding to formula or supplementing your breast milk supply, breast milk and formula can both provide your baby with the essential nutrients they need to support healthy growth and development.
How to prepare baby formula
To prepare baby formula, always follow the directions on pack step-by-step. Start by washing your hands and sterilising all equipment. Boil fresh water, let it cool to about 40°C, and pour the correct amount into a sterilised bottle. Add the specified number of formula scoops as directed on the tin, using only the scoop provided, then shake well until dissolved. Test the temperature on your wrist, feed your baby immediately, and discard any leftovers.
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Related tools
Growth Charts for Infants
Want to keep track of your child’s growth? Log the weight and height of your child from birth to 3 years of age. The perfect resource for your next healthcare professional checkup.
