Store Brand vs. Name Brand Formula

This is a Sponsored post written by me on behalf of PBM Products. All opinions are 100% mine.

When it comes to giving our babies what's best for them, us moms do everything we can.  And most moms know that breastfeeding is best, the American Academy of Pediatrics recognizes it as the gold standard in infant nutrition.  But if you're unable to breastfeed or choose not to, you need to consider what brand of formula works for your baby.

According to the Food and Drug Administration [FDA], all formula marketed in the U.S. must meet the same nutrient specifications, which are set at levels to fulfill the needs of infants.  So store brand formula  is the nutritional equivalent to name brand, just labeled with the "store brand" names of retailers such as Walmart, Sam's Club, Target, CVS, Kroger, Walgreens, and Babies "R" Us.  Ultimately there is no better formula, only more expensive.

So what makes store brand formula less expensive than name brand?  Store brand formulas cost less because they are not heavily marketed or advertised and are not given away to hospitals for free.  The cost savings is therefore passed along to you, the consumer and new parent, with potential savings up to $600 per year per baby.

Store brand formula is becoming a better option, not only during these difficult economic times, but also when consumer confidence in brands may be vulnerable.   Back in September, Abbott voluntarily recalled certain Similac powder infant formulas because of the possibility of the presence of a small common beetle in the product last month.

The FDA determined the formula poses no immediate health risk, but some infants could experience symptoms of gastrointestinal discomfort and refusal to eat as a result of  irritated GI tracts.  If these symptoms persist for more than a few days, a physician should be consulted. 

To immediately find out if the Similac product in your possession is affected call (888) 376-2054 or visit the recall lookup page on their website and the return process will be explained.

If you're interested in trying store brand formulas you can view the whole list of store brand retailers here and before you head out to the store, get your store brand formula coupon.