Infant formula
Analysis updated August 2026 · How Scout scores
At a glance
Summary
This infant formula contains beneficial ingredients such as DHA, ARA, and choline, which are important for brain and eye development in infants. However, the presence of carrageenan and corn syrup solids raises concerns due to potential digestive issues and excessive sugar intake. The formula is also highly processed, which is typical for this category, but the inclusion of these controversial ingredients impacts its overall healthiness.
Key ingredients 29
Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA)Very Good
DHA is an omega-3 fatty acid crucial for brain and eye development in infants. It is often added to formulas to mimic the fatty acid profile of breast milk. This ingredient supports cognitive and visual development.
Benefits
Supports brain and eye development in infants.
Arachidonic Acid (ARA)Very Good
ARA is an omega-6 fatty acid important for brain development and immune function. It is typically included in infant formulas to complement DHA. This ingredient is essential for proper growth and development.
Benefits
Supports brain development and immune function.
Milk Fat Globule Membrane (MFGM)Very Good
MFGM is a component of milk fat that contains bioactive compounds beneficial for brain and immune development. It is included in formulas to mimic the composition of breast milk. This ingredient supports cognitive and immune health.
Benefits
Supports brain and immune development.
Human Milk Oligosaccharides (HMO)Very Good
HMOs are complex carbohydrates found in breast milk that support immune function and gut health. They are included in formulas to replicate the benefits of breast milk. This ingredient enhances immune protection and gut development.
Benefits
Supports immune function and gut health.
2’-fucosyllactose (2’-FL)Very Good
2’-FL is a type of HMO that supports immune function and gut health, similar to those found in breast milk. It is included in formulas to provide similar benefits to breastfed infants. This ingredient enhances immune protection and gut development.
Benefits
Supports immune function and gut health.
ProbioticsVery Good
Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that support gut health and immune function. They are included in formulas to promote a healthy digestive system. This ingredient helps maintain a balanced gut microbiome.
Benefits
Supports digestive health and immune function.
Ascorbyl PalmitateGood
Ascorbyl palmitate is a fat-soluble form of vitamin C, which is essential for immune function and collagen synthesis. It is used in formulas to enhance the stability of vitamin C. This form allows for better absorption in fat-rich environments.
Benefits
Provides antioxidant protection and supports immune health.
Mixed TocopherolsGood
Mixed tocopherols are a form of vitamin E, which acts as an antioxidant protecting cells from damage. They are often used to preserve freshness in food products. This ingredient supports skin health and immune function.
Benefits
Supports immune function and acts as an antioxidant.
CholineGood
Choline is an essential nutrient that supports brain development and liver function. It is crucial for infants as it aids in cognitive development. This nutrient is often added to infant formulas to ensure adequate intake.
Benefits
Supports brain development and liver function.
InositolGood
Inositol is a carbohydrate that plays a role in cell membrane formation and nerve function. It is important for infant development, particularly in the brain. This ingredient is often included in formulas to support neurological health.
Benefits
Supports brain development and nerve function.
L-carnitineGood
L-carnitine is an amino acid derivative that aids in energy production by transporting fatty acids into mitochondria. It is essential for infants as it supports energy metabolism. This ingredient is often added to formulas to ensure adequate levels.
Benefits
Supports energy metabolism and fatty acid utilization.
LuteinGood
Lutein is a carotenoid with antioxidant properties, important for eye health. It is often added to infant formulas to support visual development. This ingredient helps protect the eyes from oxidative stress.
Benefits
Supports eye health and visual development.
LycopeneGood
Lycopene is a powerful antioxidant found in tomatoes and other red fruits. It is included in formulas for its potential protective effects against oxidative stress. This ingredient supports overall health and may reduce the risk of certain diseases.
Benefits
Provides antioxidant protection and supports overall health.
NucleotidesGood
Nucleotides are the building blocks of DNA and RNA, essential for cell growth and repair. They are added to infant formulas to support immune function and gut health. This ingredient is crucial for proper development and recovery.
Benefits
Supports immune function and cell growth.
OPO (1, 3-dioleoyl-2-palmitoylglycerol)Good
OPO is a structured lipid designed to mimic the fat composition of breast milk, promoting better fat and calcium absorption. It is included in formulas to enhance nutrient uptake. This ingredient supports bone health and digestion.
Benefits
Enhances fat and calcium absorption, supporting bone health.
Fructooligosaccharides (FOS)Good
FOS are prebiotic fibers that promote the growth of beneficial gut bacteria. They are included in formulas to support digestive health and immune function. This ingredient helps maintain a healthy gut microbiome.
Benefits
Supports digestive health and immune function.
Galactooligosaccharides (GOS)Good
GOS are prebiotic fibers that enhance the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, supporting digestive health. They are added to formulas to mimic the prebiotic effects of breast milk. This ingredient promotes a healthy gut microbiome.
Benefits
Supports digestive health and immune function.
TaurineGood
Taurine is an amino acid important for brain and eye development in infants. It is often added to formulas to support neurological health. This ingredient is crucial for proper growth and development.
Benefits
Supports brain and eye development.
Whey Protein Concentrates (WPC)Good
Whey protein concentrates are a high-quality protein source with a rich amino acid profile. They are included in formulas to support muscle growth and repair. This ingredient provides essential amino acids for infant development.
Benefits
Supports muscle growth and provides essential amino acids.
Citric AcidNeutral
Citric acid is a natural preservative and flavor enhancer commonly used in food products. It is generally recognized as safe when consumed in typical amounts. It helps maintain the stability and taste of the product.
Risks
Excessive consumption may lead to dental erosion.
Polydextrose (PXD)Neutral
Polydextrose is a synthetic polymer of glucose used as a fiber supplement and bulking agent. It is generally recognized as safe but may cause digestive discomfort in large amounts. This ingredient is used to increase fiber content.
Risks
May cause digestive discomfort in large amounts.
Benefits
Provides a source of dietary fiber.
Skim MilkNeutral
Skim milk is a source of protein and calcium, commonly used in infant formulas. It provides essential nutrients but lacks the fat content of whole milk. This ingredient is used to provide a balanced nutrient profile.
Benefits
Provides protein and calcium for growth and development.
CarrageenanBad
Carrageenan is a thickening agent derived from seaweed, used to improve texture in food products. Some studies suggest it may cause digestive issues in sensitive individuals. It is often criticized for potential inflammatory effects.
Risks
May cause digestive discomfort and inflammation in some individuals.
Corn Syrup SolidsBad
Corn syrup solids are used as a carbohydrate source in infant formulas. They are highly processed and can contribute to excessive sugar intake. This ingredient is often criticized for its high glycemic index.
Risks
May contribute to excessive sugar intake and potential weight gain.
Benefits
Provides a source of carbohydrates for energy.
MaltodextrinBad
Processed additive flagged under Scout's ingredient doctrine.
Risks
May cause spikes in blood sugar levels due to its high glycemic index.
Benefits
Provides a source of carbohydrates for energy.
Palm OilBad
Palm oil is a common fat source in infant formulas, but it may hinder calcium absorption. It is often criticized for its environmental impact and potential health concerns. This ingredient is used for its cost-effectiveness and stability.
Risks
May reduce calcium absorption and contribute to environmental degradation.
Benefits
Provides a stable source of fat for energy.
Palm OleinBad
Palm olein is a fraction of palm oil used to balance the fat profile in formulas. It shares similar concerns with palm oil regarding calcium absorption and environmental impact. This ingredient is used to achieve desired fat content.
Risks
May reduce calcium absorption and contribute to environmental degradation.
Benefits
Provides a stable source of fat for energy.
Soy LecithinBad
Soy lecithin is an emulsifier derived from soybeans, used to improve texture and stability in food products. It may be a concern for those with soy allergies. This ingredient is used for its emulsifying properties.
Risks
May cause allergic reactions in individuals sensitive to soy.
Seed OilsVery Bad
Seed oils are high in omega-6 fatty acids, which can promote inflammation when consumed in excess. They are often criticized for their processing methods and potential health concerns. This ingredient is used for its cost-effectiveness.
Risks
High omega-6 content may promote inflammation when consumed in excess.
Processing
Ultra-Processed Foods
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