Shopping Savings: Baby Formula

I feel that breastfeeding is best, but know that many moms need to use formula instead of or in addition to breastfeeding. Most babies are just fine with store brand formulas, and it can save you a tremendous amount of money - just try out the baby formula savings calculator available through Parent's Choice. If you know you'll be primarily breastfeeding, then put in 10% - even then, it saves $65 over the course of a year.

Consumer reports just announced the 10th edition Consumer Reports Best Baby Products, and with that, included a press release about formula. I'd like to share part of that recent press release:

If you choose or need to use infant formula, buy powdered formula. It costs less than concentrated liquid or liquid formula. And keep in mind that all infant formula sold in the U.S. must meet the same basic nutrient requirements specified by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, so if your baby likes store-brand formula, buy it—in the largest-size cans you can find. Consumer Reports recommends buying store-brand formulas because they are nutritionally comparable to Enfamil® LIPIL® and other name-brand formulas.

Liquid or concentrate formulas may be convenient, but they are more expensive per serving. Unless your child has special nutritional needs or dietary issues, such as allergies, generic and store-brand formula is definitely your best bet.