Similac

Common questions

Is Similac healthy?

Similac scores 60/100 on Scout's independent analysis of ingredients, additives, and lab results — a fair-to-good score — solid, with tradeoffs. This product contains beneficial ingredients like human milk oligosaccharides and whey protein concentrate, which support gut health and muscle growth.

How processed is Similac?

Similac is NOVA Group 4: Ultra-Processed Foods.

Which ingredients drive Similac's score?

In Scout's ingredient-by-ingredient analysis, Whey Protein Concentrate, Coconut Oil, Human Milk Oligosaccharides count in its favor; High Oleic Safflower Oil, Soy Oil are flagged as ingredients of concern. The full breakdown, with why each one matters, is in the Key ingredients section on this page.

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Similac

Abbott
60 Fair

Analysis updated May 2026 · How Scout scores

$4.40 · $4.40 / count
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At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 13
Harmful ingredients 2
Owned by Abbott Laboratories
Category Milk
Summary

This product contains beneficial ingredients like human milk oligosaccharides and whey protein concentrate, which support gut health and muscle growth. However, it is heavily processed and includes high oleic safflower oil and soy oil, which are industrial seed oils linked to inflammation. The high level of processing and presence of these oils significantly impact its overall healthiness.

Key ingredients 19

Human Milk Oligosaccharides
Very Good

Human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs) are prebiotics that support gut health and immune function. They are naturally found in human breast milk and are beneficial for infant development. HMOs help establish a healthy gut microbiota.

Benefits

Supports gut health and immune function by promoting beneficial gut bacteria.

Omega 3 Fatty Acids
Very Good

Omega 3 fatty acids are essential for brain and heart health. They have anti-inflammatory properties and support cognitive development. These fats are crucial for infant growth and development.

Benefits

Supports brain development and reduces inflammation.

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Whey Protein Concentrate
Good

Whey protein concentrate is a high-quality protein source rich in essential amino acids. It is derived from milk and supports muscle growth and repair. It is less processed than whey protein isolate, retaining more nutrients.

Benefits

Supports muscle growth and repair due to its rich amino acid profile.

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Coconut Oil
Good

Coconut oil is a source of medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which are easily metabolized for energy. It is less processed than many seed oils and has antimicrobial properties. Its saturated fat content supports energy and brain health.

Risks

High saturated fat content may be a concern for some individuals if consumed in excess.

Benefits

Provides MCTs that are quickly used for energy and may support cognitive function.

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Milk Fat
Good

Milk fat provides essential fatty acids and fat-soluble vitamins. It is a natural component of milk and contributes to flavor and texture. It supports brain development and energy metabolism.

Benefits

Rich in essential fatty acids and vitamins A, D, E, and K.

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Taurine
Good

Taurine is an amino acid important for cardiovascular and neurological function. It is often added to infant formulas to mimic the composition of human milk. Taurine supports bile salt formation and antioxidant activity.

Benefits

Supports cardiovascular health and neurological development.

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Carnitine
Good

Carnitine is essential for energy production as it transports fatty acids into mitochondria. It is naturally found in animal products and is important for infant growth. Carnitine supplementation supports metabolic health.

Benefits

Facilitates energy production and supports metabolic health.

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Vitamin C
Good

Vitamin C is a vital antioxidant that supports immune function and collagen synthesis. It is water-soluble and must be consumed regularly. It enhances iron absorption from plant-based foods.

Benefits

Boosts immune function and enhances iron absorption.

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Choline
Good

Choline is crucial for brain development and liver function. It is a component of cell membranes and neurotransmitters. Adequate choline intake supports cognitive health and memory.

Benefits

Supports brain development and cognitive function.

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Iron
Good

Iron is essential for oxygen transport and energy production. It is a critical component of hemoglobin and myoglobin. Adequate iron intake prevents anemia and supports growth and development.

Risks

Excessive iron intake can lead to toxicity and gastrointestinal issues.

Benefits

Prevents anemia and supports oxygen transport in the body.

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Iodine
Good

Iodine is essential for thyroid hormone production and metabolic regulation. It is crucial for brain development and growth. Adequate iodine intake prevents thyroid disorders.

Risks

Excessive iodine intake can lead to thyroid dysfunction.

Benefits

Supports thyroid health and metabolic regulation.

Zinc
Good

Zinc is crucial for immune function and wound healing. It is a component of numerous enzymes and proteins. Adequate zinc intake supports growth and development.

Risks

Excessive zinc intake can interfere with copper absorption and cause gastrointestinal issues.

Benefits

Supports immune function and promotes wound healing.

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Antioxidants (Vitamin A, C, E)
Good

Antioxidants like vitamins A, C, and E protect cells from oxidative damage. They support immune function and skin health. These vitamins are essential for overall health and well-being.

Benefits

Protects against oxidative stress and supports immune health.

Nonfat Milk
Neutral

Standard formulation ingredient — neither beneficial nor harmful at typical use.

Benefits

Provides essential nutrients like calcium and protein without the added calories from fat.

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Lactose
Neutral

Lactose is a natural sugar found in milk, providing energy. It is less sweet than sucrose and is often used in infant formulas. Some individuals may be lactose intolerant, which can cause digestive issues.

Risks

May cause digestive discomfort in lactose-intolerant individuals.

Benefits

Serves as a source of energy and aids in the absorption of calcium and other minerals.

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Folic Acid
Neutral

Standard formulation ingredient — neither beneficial nor harmful at typical use.

Benefits

Supports DNA synthesis and prevents neural tube defects.

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Omega 6 Fatty Acids
Neutral

Omega 6 fatty acids are essential fats that support growth and development. They are often consumed in excess, which can lead to an imbalance with omega 3s. Proper balance is crucial for optimal health.

Risks

Excessive intake may promote inflammation if not balanced with omega 3 fatty acids.

Benefits

Supports growth and development when consumed in balance with omega 3s.

High Oleic Safflower Oil
Very Bad

High oleic safflower oil is a seed oil high in monounsaturated fats but is heavily processed. It is often used for its stability at high temperatures. The high omega-6 content may contribute to inflammation.

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.

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Soy Oil
Very Bad

Soy oil is a seed oil high in omega-6 fatty acids, which can be inflammatory. It is often extracted using chemical solvents, which may leave residues. Its high processing level makes it less desirable nutritionally.

Risks

High omega-6 content may promote inflammation and imbalance omega-3 to omega-6 ratio.

See more about Soy Oil →

Processing

Group 4 · Ultra-processed

Ultra-Processed Foods

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