Why are stages used in European baby formula?

European baby formulas are designed to provide complete nutrition for babies as they grow and develop. The European Union (EU) has strict regulations regarding the composition and labeling of baby formula, and all baby formula sold in the EU must meet these regulations. One of the key aspects of European baby formula is the division into different stages to reflect the changing nutritional needs of babies as they grow from newborns to toddlers. In this article, we will explore the different stages of European baby formula and what each stage provides for your baby. 

What Are Formula Stages, and What's Their Purpose?

In more and more North American households, the European formula is becoming normal. Parents seek the best for their babies and want to know what they give their precious little one. Products with high organic production standards and ingredients are becoming the norm.

Parents are moving away from American formulas that often have complicated ingredient lists and are filled with added sugars, soy, and chemicals. European brands such as HiPP and Holle follow the European Union’s strict guidelines and even go beyond these regulations with the  best dynamic farming and gentle animal practices. They are known for the complete organic nutrition they provide for your baby. 

Besides using organic ingredients, labeling for ages is another benefit of European formulas. The composition of each of the formulas is developed to meet and support your baby’s development and growth. The European Commission recognizes that breast milk changes in nutrition over time to meet the needs of a baby. Infant formulas in Europe are therefore “staged” to more closely resemble what’s found in breast milk over time. European brands offer multiple stages: stage pre, suitable from birth onwards, specifically without starch for easy digestion. Stage 1; suitable from birth onwards. Stage 2; is for babies who are at least 6 months of age. Stage 3, which can either be for 10+ months (All German formulas) or 12+ months (UK and Dutch formulas). The purpose of each stage is to meet the specific nutritional needs of a particular age.

What are the Differences Between Stages Pre, 1, 2, and 3?

The main differences between the stages are the protein composition and the quantities in which specific ingredients are present. The need for iron, calcium, and vitamin D grows when your little one grows as well. Another ingredient that is different between the stages is the protein composition. Protein is made up of casein and whey. In stage 1, the mix is 40% casein and 60% whey, which is in line with the protein found in breast milk. Stage 2 has a protein mix of 60% casein and 40% when. This makes the formula more filling for babies even though they get the same number of ounces per bottle. They are more active at this stage and need this intake to develop and grow. Stage 3 has a protein mix of 80% casein and 20% whey as they are developing and growing, and this extra energy is very welcome and supports physiological development.
Click here for our baby formula comparison chart to help you understand the differences between our offered formulas.

Below, we will go over all the main components of the different European formulas we offer per stage.