The main ingredient in baby formula is powdered milk, which usually comes from either cow’s or goat's milk.
But how can you know which type of milk suits your baby’s needs best?
Here is a short guide on the main differences between Cow and Goat Milk in baby formula, so you can make a more informed choice when choosing the most suitable formula for your baby.
Cow vs Goat Milk:
Both cow and goat milk formulas for babies are good sources of protein and fat, which are essential for a baby’s healthy growth and development. These formulas end up fortified with vitamins, such as vitamin A, B12 & D, and minerals, such as magnesium & phosphorus, which are naturally found in breastmilk.
However, there are a few key differences between the two types of milk, in terms of the content of nutrients, ease of digestion and allergenic potential. Here are the main differences between Cow and Goat Milk:
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COW MILK vs. GOAT MILK
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FAT |
Goat Milk has smaller fat molecules, which makes it easier to digest compared to Cow Milk. |
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PROTEIN |
Goat Milk has naturally smaller protein molecules, which gives it a lower allergenic potential compared to Cow Milk. |
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FOLIC ACID |
Cow Milk has a higher content of folic acid compared to Goat Milk , which supports the production of DNA, amino acids and regulates healthy cell division. |
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VITAMIN B-12 |
Cow Milk has a higher content of Vitamin B-12 compared to Goat Milk, which helps support brain development and the production of healthy red blood cells. |
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VITAMIN A |
Goat Milk has a higher amount of Vitamin A compared to Cow Milk, which supports a healthy immune system, vision and skin. |
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LACTOSE |
Goat Milk is lower in lactose compared to Cow Milk, making it a good option for babies who have difficulty digesting lactose. |
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PRICE |
Goat Milk is generally more expensive than Cow Milk. |
Source: Prevention (2017)
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Now that you have understood the key differences between cow & goat milk, you will be able to make more informed decisions and choose the most suitable baby formula for your baby according to his or her needs.
However, it is important to remember that as each baby is unique, their nutritional needs may vary. Therefore, you should always seek guidance from your healthcare professional to determine the most appropriate formula milk for your little one.
