A variety of baby formulas are available, all carefully formulated to make them as close as possible to breast milk: in fact, formula has added vitamin D and iron, levels of which are quite low in breast milk.
Most formulas are based on cows’ milk, but you can buy soy-based formulas for a baby who finds cows’ milk unsuitable. Some formulas are available both in powder and ready-to-use forms.
Ready-to-use formula comes in cans or ready-to-feed bottles and is ultra-heat treated (UHT), which means it is sterile and will keep in a cool place until the “best before” date. Once the can has been opened, the formula will keep for 24 hours in a refrigerator. Ready-to-use formula is more expensive than powdered formula, but it is convenient, and useful when you are traveling. If you use powdered formula, it is essential to make it up precisely according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Some parents are tempted to add extra powder to make the formula “more nourishing,” but this will lead to your baby getting too much protein and fat, and not enough water. Similarly, if you add too little powder, your baby will not be getting the nutrients he needs for healthy growth.
