Kendamil UK vs HiPP UK: A Comparison Guide

Kendamil UK vs HiPP UK

 

Kendamil UK and HiPP UK organic baby formula tins on a wooden table in a bright kitchen, comparing European infant formula options.

Kendamil UK and HiPP UK are both top-tier, premium infant formulas, but they differ significantly in their formulation philosophies: Kendamil focuses on a creamier whole-milk base with no palm oil or fish oil, while HiPP UK centers its 100% organic formula around skimmed milk and a highly specialized approach designed for easy digestion. Under strict UK and European regulations, both brands are legally required to be nutritionally complete and equivalent in terms of essential vitamins and minerals. However, the way they source their fats, proteins, and carbohydrates varies significantly, which can matter for parents comparing ingredient philosophy, organic quality, and suitability for sensitive tummies.

Quick Verdict: How to Choose

  • Choose Kendamil UK if your priorities are a palm-oil-free recipe, a creamy whole-milk base, plant-based DHA (vegetarian-friendly), and an entirely British supply chain.
  • Choose HiPP UK if your baby has a sensitive stomach, or if you want a lighter formula with a decades-long track record in organic European farming and a thoughtful approach to sustainability, organic certification, and quality control.

Core Similarities

  • Nutritional Completeness: Both brands fully satisfy strict UK regulations for infant health, growth and development, and cognitive development.
  • No Bad Additives: Neither brand uses corn syrup solids, sugar, fillers, soy, synthetic pesticides, or genetically modified organisms (GMOs).
  • Lactose-Based: Both formulas use 100% lactose as the primary carbohydrate source to mimic natural breast milk.
  • Prebiotics Included: Both utilize Galacto-oligosaccharides (GOS) in their formulas to feed good gut bacteria and support a healthy gut microbiome.

Key Differences

  • The Fat Base: Kendamil leaves the natural whole milk fat intact, meaning it contains natural Milk Fat Globule Membranes (MFGM) for a slightly heavier, creamier texture and a more filling milk. HiPP UK primarily uses a 100% organic skimmed milk base paired with a blend of organic vegetable oils as the fat source for easier digestion and tolerance.
  • Palm Oil & Fish Oil: Kendamil is 100% palm oil-free and sources its Omega-3 (DHA) from marine algae, making it entirely vegetarian-friendly. HiPP UK includes palm oil to mirror the palmitic acid profile of breast milk and uses sustainably sourced fish oil for its DHA source.
  • Specialty Options: HiPP features an extensive line of specialty products like HiPP Comfort and HiPP Anti-Reflux for sensitive tummies or gassiness. Kendamil has a more streamlined lineup consisting of Classic, Organic, and Goat milk options. 

Kendamil UK vs. HiPP UK Comparison Chart

Feature

Kendamil UK (Classic / Organic)

HiPP UK (Organic)

Primary Milk Base

Whole milk (Full cream)

 

Skimmed milk

Palm Oil

No (100% palm oil-free)

 

Yes, but sustainable and organic (Used to mirror breast milk fatty acids)

 

DHA Source

Marine Algae (Plant-based)

Fish Oil (sourced from fish found in their farm rivers and waterways and tested for purity)

Dietary Status

Vegetarian-friendly

Not vegetarian (contains fish oil)

Prebiotics

GOS & FOS (Classic) or GOS only (Organic)

GOS only

Probiotics

No added probiotics

Yes (Contains L.

fermentum cultures)

Sourcing Country

100% British (Lake District farms)

British & European farms (German/EU and UK)

Packaging

Recyclable metal tins (800g)

Recyclable metal tins (800g), previously recyclable cardboard boxes

 

In-Depth Product Breakdown

1. Kendamil UK

  • Texture & Taste: Exceptionally rich and creamy due to the whole milk fats. Parents note that it has a pleasant, sweet, natural milk flavor.
  • Digestion: The whole milk base means less reliance on vegetable oils, which can lead to softer stools for many infants. However, the rich profile can sometimes feel heavy for babies prone to severe reflux or digestive concerns.
  • Sourcing: Proudly carries the UK Red Tractor certification, ensuring strict animal welfare and locally sourced British ingredients. 

2. HiPP UK

  • Texture & Taste: Lighter and thinner in consistency because it is built on a skimmed milk base. It has a slightly more traditional "formula" aroma due to the fish oil content.
  • Digestion: Exceptionally easy to digest. The combination of prebiotic fibers alongside lactic acid cultures mimics the gut-protective qualities of breastfeeding, making it an easy choice for gassiness, bloating, or sensitive tummies.
  • Sourcing: Certified 100% organic by EU standards. Also uses the ‘HiPP seal of approval’ which exceeds EU organic standards by practicing sustainable biodynamic agriculture on their farms for generations.

Author Information

  • Written by Amy P.
  • Reviewed by Nik S.
  • Last updated: July 25th 2026
  • References and website sources: EU Organic, US FDA, USDA, HiPP, Kendamil UK, with additional vetted articles and resources.
  • AI was used for article structure and format only. Our team member completed information research and writing article content. Subsequent review was completed by a different team member who verified the completed research for accuracy before publishing. 


Explore Kendamil Guide

Explore HiPP Guide

Information Disclaimer

The information provided in this guide is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not intended to constitute medical, nutritional, or professional advice. Product formulations, ingredients, nutritional information, packaging, and preparation or storage instructions may change, and products may differ between markets.

We make reasonable efforts to keep the information in our guides accurate and current, but always refer to the current product packaging and manufacturer's instructions for the most up-to-date product information. This guide is not intended to diagnose, treat, or prevent any medical condition or to recommend a particular formula for your baby.

If you have questions about choosing, changing, or using infant formula, or whether a particular product is appropriate for your baby, consult your pediatrician or another qualified healthcare professional.