Similac 360 Total Care Non-GMO Infant Formula Powder - 30.8oz: Kosher, Halal, Gluten-Free, Mix
Summary
This infant formula contains beneficial ingredients like nonfat milk, lactose, and whey protein concentrate, which are essential for infant nutrition. However, it is heavily processed and includes high oleic safflower oil, a seed oil that can promote inflammation. The presence of multiple additives and its ultra-processed nature significantly impact its overall healthiness score.
At a glance
Key ingredients 15
Nonfat milkGood
Nonfat milk is a source of protein and calcium, essential for infant growth and bone development. It is processed to remove fat, making it suitable for low-fat dietary needs. It provides a base for infant formula, offering essential nutrients without excess fat.
Benefits
Provides essential proteins and calcium necessary for infant growth and development.
LactoseGood
Lactose is a natural sugar found in milk, providing energy for infants. It is easily digestible and supports the development of gut bacteria. As a primary carbohydrate in breast milk, it is crucial for infant nutrition.
Benefits
Supports energy needs and promotes healthy gut bacteria in infants.
High oleic safflower oilVery Bad
High oleic safflower oil is a seed oil high in omega-6 fatty acids, which can promote inflammation if consumed in excess. It is heavily processed, which may reduce its nutritional quality. Despite being high in monounsaturated fats, its omega-6 content is a concern.
Risks
High omega-6 content may promote inflammation when consumed in excess.
Benefits
Contains monounsaturated fats that can support heart health when consumed in moderation.
Whey protein concentrateGood
Whey protein concentrate is a high-quality protein source with a complete amino acid profile, supporting muscle and tissue development. It is derived from milk and is easily digestible for infants. It provides essential nutrients for growth and development.
Benefits
Rich in essential amino acids, supporting muscle and tissue development in infants.
Soyol coconut oilNeutral
Soyol coconut oil is a blend of oils used to provide a balanced fat profile in infant formulas. It is processed to ensure stability and consistency in the product. While it provides essential fatty acids, it lacks the benefits of pure coconut oil.
Benefits
Provides a balanced fat profile necessary for infant growth and development.
Human milk oligosaccharidesGood
Human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs) are complex carbohydrates that support the development of a healthy gut microbiome in infants. They mimic the function of HMOs found in breast milk, promoting immune health. Their inclusion in formula aims to replicate the benefits of breast milk.
Benefits
Supports gut health and immune function in infants, similar to breast milk.
C. cohni oilNeutral
C. cohni oil is a source of DHA, an omega-3 fatty acid important for brain development. It is derived from microalgae and used in infant formulas to support cognitive health. While beneficial, it is heavily processed to ensure purity and stability.
Benefits
Provides DHA, supporting brain and cognitive development in infants.
M. alpina oilNeutral
M. alpina oil is a source of ARA, an omega-6 fatty acid important for brain and eye development. It is derived from fungi and used in infant formulas to complement DHA. While beneficial, it is heavily processed to ensure purity and stability.
Benefits
Provides ARA, supporting brain and eye development in infants.
Beta-caroteneNeutral
Beta-carotene is a precursor to vitamin A, essential for vision and immune function. It is added to infant formulas to ensure adequate vitamin A intake. While beneficial, synthetic forms may not be as effective as natural sources.
Benefits
Supports vision and immune health by providing a source of vitamin A.
LuteinNeutral
Lutein is a carotenoid important for eye health, particularly in developing infants. It is added to formulas to support retinal development and function. While beneficial, its bioavailability may vary depending on the source.
Benefits
Supports eye health and development in infants.
Potassium citrateNeutral
Potassium citrate is used to regulate acidity and provide potassium, an essential mineral for heart and muscle function. It is added to formulas to ensure electrolyte balance. While beneficial, excessive intake can lead to imbalances.
Risks
Excessive intake may lead to electrolyte imbalances.
Benefits
Provides potassium, supporting heart and muscle function.
Calcium carbonateNeutral
Calcium carbonate is a source of calcium, essential for bone development in infants. It is added to formulas to ensure adequate calcium intake. While beneficial, it may not be as easily absorbed as other calcium sources.
Benefits
Supports bone development by providing a source of calcium.
Ascorbic acidNeutral
Ascorbic acid, or vitamin C, is important for immune function and collagen synthesis. It is added to formulas to ensure adequate vitamin C intake. While beneficial, synthetic forms may not be as effective as natural sources.
Benefits
Supports immune function and collagen synthesis by providing vitamin C.
Soy lecithinNeutral
Soy lecithin is an emulsifier used to stabilize formulas and improve texture. It is derived from soybeans and is generally recognized as safe. While it aids in product consistency, it may cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
Risks
May cause allergic reactions in individuals sensitive to soy.
Benefits
Improves texture and stability of the formula.
Potassium chlorideNeutral
Potassium chloride is used to provide potassium, an essential mineral for heart and muscle function. It is added to formulas to ensure electrolyte balance. While beneficial, excessive intake can lead to imbalances.
Risks
Excessive intake may lead to electrolyte imbalances.
Benefits
Provides potassium, supporting heart and muscle function.
Processing
Ultra-Processed Foods
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