Best Organic Cow Milk Formula Options for Babies

Traditionally, cow’s milk formula has been the go-to choice for formula-fed babies and it remains the most common and widely recommended option today. However, there is a growing popularity for European organic versions of cow’s milk formulas, which are known for their strictly controlled and high-quality organic standards.

European cow milk formulas are carefully crafted to resemble breast milk, offering a nutritious alternative when supplementing breastfeeding. They also provide a mild, easily accepted taste that babies tend to love. 

If organic certification is important to you and you’re considering a cow’s milk-based formula, keep reading to discover some of the best European organic cow milk formula options.

What to Look for in a High-Quality Cow Milk Formula

While many cow’s milk formulas are high-quality, some use more premium ingredients and offer better nutritional profiles than others. If you’re seeking a top-tier cow milk  formula, here are some key features to look out for:

• Organic milk listed as the first ingredient, which ensures the formula meets the EU’s stringent organic certification standards.
• Lactose as the primary or sole source of carbohydrates, to reflect the carbs in breast milk.
• Omega-3 and omega-6 essential fatty acids to support brain and eye development from day one. Some parents prefer plant-based DHA derived from algae, which offers a sustainable alternative to omega-3s from fish oil and is suitable for individuals who avoid fish due to allergies.
• Prebiotics and probiotics are especially beneficial for babies with sensitive tummies, as they support digestive health.
• Complementary carbohydrates, such as starch or maltodextrin, in later stages of formula can help satisfy older babies with bigger appetites.

Best Cow Milk Formula Brands from Europe

Increasingly, parents are turning to renowned European organic baby formula brands for peace of mind. These companies have long pioneered organic nutrition, developing formulas that both parents and babies love.

HiPP, Holle, and Lebenswert Bio are standout brands offering premium cow’s milk options. In the next section, we will explore what makes them so special. 

HiPP Bio Combiotik

Parents seeking to bridge the gap between breastfeeding and formula often opt for HiPP Bio Combiotik Dutch. It combines insights from cutting-edge breast milk research with advanced ingredients to create a formula that closely mimics the composition of human milk for gentle nourishment. 

With lactose as the sole carbohydrate source in HiPP Dutch Stage 1 to 4, this line of formulas supports sustained energy levels, promotes easy digestion, and encourages the growth of beneficial gut bacteria in babies. This sets it apart from other infant formulas, such as HiPP Stage 1 German, which includes starch. 

The HiPP Bio Combiotik also includes prebiotic GOS and probiotic lactic acid cultures, originally derived from breast milk, which help boost immunity and promote the growth of healthy gut bacteria. Additionally, HiPP formula includes omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids in an optimal 1:1 ratio to support eye and brain development.

HiPP Dutch is not only EU organic certified, but also holds the HiPP Organic Seal—a self-imposed certification that exceeds EU regulations, with a strong focus on avoiding contaminants.

HiPP Bio Combiotik Dutch is ideal for babies transitioning from breastfeeding, those needing digestive support, or parents prioritizing immune-boosting nutrients.

Holle Cow

Holle cow milk formula is the go-to choice for parents seeking the highest level of organic quality, as most Holle formulas are EU organic and also Demeter certified—the strictest organic certification available. It’s available in both Dutch and German varieties. 

100% lactose-based carbohydrates are a key feature of Holle Stage PRE, Holle Stage 1, and Holle Dutch Stage 1. However, starting from Stage 2, the formulas also include organic starch and organic maltodextrin, which help keep hungrier babies feeling fuller for longer. 

All stages include omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids, but Holle formula uniquely uses DHA sourced from algae, rather than fish oil, which sets it apart from the other formulas on our list. Additionally, with a preference for simplistic formulations, Holle does not add prebiotics or probiotics to the milk.

For healthy babies, Holle Cow formula is an excellent choice, offering a mild and pleasant taste that babies happily accept. 

Lebenswert Bio

Lebenswert Bio baby formula is an excellent choice for parents seeking organic nutrition on a budget. Created by Holle, this line delivers high quality without compromise. It carries both EU organic certification and Bioland certification, the latter of which surpasses conventional European organic standards.

Lebenswert formula aims to mimic breast milk using a nutritionally balanced blend of organic skimmed milk, vegetable oils, whey powder, essential fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals. Stages 2 and 3 also include organic starch and maltodextrin, while Stage 1 uses 100% lactose. The formula does not contain prebiotics or probiotics, offering a minimalist recipe similar to Holle Cow formula. 

The gentle composition of this formula is well tolerated by tiny tummies, making Lebenswert a great option for families who prioritize clean ingredients and simple nutrition. 

Shop at Organic’s Best for Organic European Baby Formulas

If any of the organic cow milk formulas we’ve talked about today sound like a good match for your baby or you would like to learn more, head over to Organic’s Best shop! Organic’s Best is a family-run company that has grown to be a leading retailer of organic European baby formula.

Over 130,000 North American families have chosen Organic’s Best to feed their families. Customers can enjoy insured express delivery to Canada and the US within 2-5 business days, bulk order discounts, and personalized advice from the customer care team, which even includes medical doctors. 

While we are confident in the recommendations discussed today, it is always best to consult your pediatrician before switching or starting a baby formula.

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