Differences between Enfamil and Similac
Contents
Enfamil vs. Similac[edit]
Enfamil and Similac are two of the most widely recognized brands of infant formula in the United States.[1][2] Both brands are regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and are required to meet specific nutritional guidelines to ensure they support infant growth and development.[2][3] Enfamil is manufactured by Mead Johnson, a subsidiary of Reckitt, while Similac is produced by Abbott Laboratories.[4] Both companies offer a wide range of products designed for various dietary needs, from standard milk-based formulas to specialized options for infants with sensitivities or specific health conditions.[2][5]
While both brands provide complete nutrition for infants, they have some key differences in their formulations.[1] The choice between Enfamil and Similac often comes down to a baby's specific needs, tolerance, and pediatrician recommendations.[1][2]
Comparison Table[edit]
| Category | Enfamil | Similac |
|---|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Mead Johnson (subsidiary of Reckitt)[4] | Abbott Laboratories |
| Primary Protein Source | Nonfat milk and whey protein concentrate[1] | Milk protein isolate[1] |
| Primary Carbohydrate Source | Lactose, corn syrup solids[1] | Corn syrup solids, lactose[1] |
| Key Prebiotics | Galactooligosaccharides (GOS) and polydextrose (PDX) | Fructooligosaccharides (FOS) or GOS; some formulas contain 5 types of Human Milk Oligosaccharides (HMOs) |
| DHA Content | Generally higher DHA content in some flagship products | Varies by product |
| Palm Olein Oil | Used in most formulations[1] | Not used in most varieties[1] |
| Specialty Formulas | Enfamil Gentlease (for fussiness and gas), Enfamil A.R. (for spit-up)[1][5] | Similac 360 Total Care Sensitive (for fussiness and gas), Similac for Spit-Up[1][2] |
Notable Ingredient Differences[edit]
One of the primary distinctions between the brands lies in their specific ingredient compositions. Enfamil's standard formulas typically use a combination of nonfat milk and whey protein concentrate, while many Similac formulas utilize milk protein isolate.[1] Both brands include lactose as a carbohydrate source, though some products may also contain corn syrup solids.[1]
The type and number of prebiotics, which are intended to support gut health, also differ. Some Similac formulas, such as Similac 360, contain five types of Human Milk Oligosaccharides (HMOs), while Enfamil formulas often include a dual-prebiotic blend of galactooligosaccharides (GOS) and polydextrose. Another point of differentiation is the use of palm olein oil. Enfamil includes this ingredient in many of its formulas, whereas Similac has largely removed it from its products, which may help with softer stools in some infants.
Recalls and Legal Issues[edit]
Both Abbott Laboratories and Mead Johnson have faced recalls and legal challenges regarding their infant formulas. In February 2022, Abbott initiated a voluntary recall of some powdered Similac, Alimentum, and EleCare formulas produced at its Sturgis, Michigan facility due to potential contamination with *Cronobacter sakazakii*. This recall and the subsequent plant shutdown were contributing factors to a nationwide infant formula shortage in the United States.
Additionally, both companies have been named in lawsuits alleging that their cow's milk-based formulas contributed to an increased risk of necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC), a serious intestinal condition, in premature infants. In March 2024, a jury awarded $60 million in a lawsuit against Mead Johnson, finding that its Enfamil formula was a cause of NEC in a premature infant who died. As of early 2026, hundreds of lawsuits against both Mead Johnson and Abbott related to NEC were pending.
References[edit]
- ↑ 1.00 1.01 1.02 1.03 1.04 1.05 1.06 1.07 1.08 1.09 1.10 1.11 1.12 "teachtoddler.com". Retrieved January 11, 2026.
- ↑ 2.0 2.1 2.2 2.3 2.4 "healthline.com". Retrieved January 11, 2026.
- ↑ "quora.com". Retrieved January 11, 2026.
- ↑ 4.0 4.1 "wikipedia.org". Retrieved January 11, 2026.
- ↑ 5.0 5.1 "wikipedia.org". Retrieved January 11, 2026.
