How to Switch Baby Formula Safely: A Parent's Step-by-Step Guide

Thinking about switching baby formula? Learn when to switch, how to transition gradually, what changes are normal, and when to contact your pediatrician.

Introduction 

• It is common for babies to switch formulas at some point.
• Parents may choose to switch because of age, availability, ingredient preferences, or feeding needs.
• While many babies tolerate a new formula well, a gradual transition can help reduce digestive upset.
• This guide explains what to expect and how to make the transition as smoothly as possible.

Looking for a new formula?

Compare our European formulas →

Section 1: Why Parents Switch Formula

While switching formulas can be concerning and confusing for parents, it is a common occurrence with infants and toddlers. With a little planning and a gradual approach, the process can go relatively smoothly. 

Common reasons for switching formulas include:

• Baby is moving to the next stage
• Family wants an organic option
• Switching to goat milk
• Trying a whole milk recipe
• Availability
• Pediatrician recommendation
• Parent preference

 

• (Organic Formula Guide)
• (Goat Milk Formula Guide)
• (Formula Stages Explained)

Baby is moving to the next stage: European formulas are categorized into ‘Stages’ to mimic changes in breastmilk throughout infancy. 
Stage 1: (First Infant) Birth to 6 months

Stage 2: (Follow on) 6 months to 12 months

Stage 3: (Toddler) 12 months to 24 months

Transitioning from one stage to the next can sometimes lead to feeding disturbances. A gradual approach can be helpful in reducing this (see below.) 

Family wants an organic option:

Parents may decide to switch to an organic formula which is a great choice. However, sometimes baby may disagree when the texture or taste changes especially when switching from a US brand that has sugar or corn syrup in its makeup. This can affect feeding schedules for a short while. 

Switching to goat milk: 

Parents may decide to move away from cow milk formula towards goat milk. This can be a good option especially if baby is having difficulty digesting cow milk. However the change to goat milk can lead to looser stools and more feeds since it is easier to digest. One note, these European goat formulas do not have that “gamey” goat taste. So this should t be a challenge if making a switch to goat milk.

Trying a whole milk recipe:

Switching from an American or other European formula that uses skimmed milk to whole milk can be an invaluable change. Whole milk is more filling and digests more slowly but also mimics breastmilk better due to its creamer and fattier content, taste and texture. How do babies react to this change? Well, it depends on your child but most infants and toddlers tend to do well and, in fact, thrive. Again, if your little one is challenged by this change, consider a gradual approach as seen in our chart for switching formulas.

Availability:

Occasional formula shortages have become the norm in the US over the last few years. Unfortunately, the same is true of European formulas from time to time. Our catalog tries to focus on products that are readily available and minimizes stockouts so you have the items when you need them.

Pediatrician recommendation:

If your healthcare provider recommends a change for any reason it is advised to follow their advice. 

Parental preference:

As a parent there may be personal reasons for a formula change including dietary needs, religious considerations, or environmental reasons. 

 

Section 2: Do You Need to Switch Gradually?

This is a question so many parents are asking. It really depends on your baby. Some babies transition immediately without any fussiness or gas while others needs a more gradual change over a week or so. Every baby is different, and as a parent you know your child best. If the change is for a medical reason, please discuss with your healthcare provider first.

Section 3: A Sample Transition Schedule

A simple table shows a suitable transition schedule that you can use.

You may need to adjust the percentages each day depending on your needs. Keep in mind gradual transition is just fine as long as nutritional needs are being met. There should be an 'end goal' to complete the transition after a week or so.

Section 4: What Changes Are Normal?

This section helps to addresses some common worries when a previous formula is switched out for a new one, especially if the characteristics of the new formula are significantly different than the previous one (i.e. switching from cow to goat milk).

Stool color

May change. Depending on the previous formula and what the new formula is can determine changes in stool color. While changes in color are normal, they should be monitored over a few days including any fussiness or discomfort shown by baby.

Stool consistency

Similar to changes in color, consistency can change depending on the change in formula. For example, changing from cow to goat formula can commonly lead to looser stools due to the easier digestion of goat milk. Again, monitor over a few days and baby's behavior during this time.

Gas

Baby's digestive system. especially newborns or early infants, is not well-developed and can respond negatively to dietary (formula) changes. Gas or bloating can increase temporarily during a formula change. This is usually for a short time but should be monitored closely for discomfort.

Appetite

Some babies take a little time to adjust to changes in formula and may adjust their feeding behavior at first. But if the change in formula was important, most babies will adapt to the new formula especially using the gradual approach from the transition table above.

Taste

Depending on the baby, there may be some aversion to changes in taste between formulas. If possible, stick to the same company's formula when transitioning to reduce taste differences. If not, follow the transition schedule provided above and let time work in your favor. 

Section 5: When to Contact Your Pediatrician

Obviously, we are not medical professionals and the information presented here is meant to be educational and not actual medical advice. With that in mind, you need to contact your healthcare provider if baby has any of the following symptoms:

• Persistent vomiting
• Blood in the stool
• Signs of dehydration
• Difficulty feeding
• Symptoms that are severe, worsening, or concerning

 

Section 6: Choosing Your Next Formula

Choosing the next formula can be challenging but we aim to make it more concise for you. Review any of the following guides to find what suits you.

For example:

Looking for organic?

→ Organic Formula Guide

Interested in goat milk?

→ Goat Milk Guide

Whole milk recipe?

→ Kendamil Guide

Comparing brands?

→ Kendamil vs HiPP

Section 7: Frequently Asked Questions

Can I switch formulas cold turkey?

It depends on your baby. You can certainly try switching instantly and not return to the previous formula but if baby spits up or doesn’t take the feed, then you are forced back to the previous formula. If that is the case, then a more gradual approach may be required over a few days or a week.  Use the chart in Section 3 (above) as a reference.

How long does it take for a baby to adjust?

Anywhere from 1-7 days for most babies.

Can I mix two formulas together?

Mixing two different formulas is generally not advised due to differences in ingredients and nutritional content. Also, it could affect the taste which might make baby averse to the feed. You can mix and match ready to feed milks with powder formula from the same brand and type. For example, you can use HiPP ready to feed first infant milk in place of HiPP first infant powder formula or go back and forth between them since they are the same product in different formats.

Can I switch brands within the same stage?

Yes you can when needed. Obviously, staying with a brand is easier and disrupts feeds less often but sometimes a brand change is needed for health reasons, parental choice, or intolerance.

Can I switch from American to European formula?

Of course! Our goal is to promote healthy nutrition for your baby and European formulas do that very well. We don't discount American formulas entirely, but US standards for formulas and baby foods are just not as strict as European products and unfortunately leave a lot of 'loopholes' for US manufacturers to take shortcuts. Just remember when switching from American formulas to European ones, measurements and quantities might vary and require close attention when preparing feeds. 

Can I switch back if needed?

Absolutely. Whatever makes the most sense for your baby's nutrition, digestive health, and overall development is most important. However, with years of experience, we can confidently say parents who switch to European formulas do not switch back after seeing how their baby responds to the new formula.

Conclusion

Just remember:

• Switching formulas is a common part of infant feeding for many families.
• Every baby adjusts differently.
• Pay attention to your baby's cues.
• Reach out to your pediatrician if you have concerns.

If you're ready, feel free to explore our British and European Formula Collection