Differences Between Holle Pre Formula & Holle Stage 1

April 16, 2024

Being able to compare and contrast the differences between various organic baby formulas is key for finding the one that is right for your baby. Taking into consideration your baby’s developmental needs, along with the nutrient contents in a specific formula, is a great place to start! If you are trying to decide specifically whether the European Holle Pre Formula or Holle Stage 1 would be best suited for your baby, here are some points to consider.

Nutritional Differences Based On Developmental Needs & Digestibility

With two healthy European formula options to choose from, both Holle Pre and Holle Stage 1 are very popular picks for newborns. Both options are created with optimal nutrients geared towards meeting an infant’s developmental needs in the early months of life. With all of the nutrients needed to support their growth, parents may find themselves wondering if one of these formulas might be a better choice than the other. The main difference between the two formulas lies within the starch and nutrient contents.

Holle Stage Pre Organic Formula does not contain starch, meaning your baby will not feel quite as full from each feeding and they will need to eat more often. A newborn’s need to eat more frequently contributes positively to their growth and development in the newborn phase. Since newborns have digestive systems that are still developing, this formula is easier for them to digest, while helping them maintain the energy they need to grow. Holle Pre Formula is high in protein and contains essential omega-3 fatty acids. This helps to build cells, regulate a baby's nervous system, strengthen their cardiovascular system, build up a strong immunity, and aids in absorbing nutrients. It also contributes positively to healthy brain function and vision.

As your baby gets a bit bigger and reaches about four-six months of age, switching to Holle Stage 1 Organic Formula is a good choice as the starch content in this formula helps them feel full longer and contributes to longer sleep stretches, all while meeting the nutritional needs they have during this phase of growth. The starch in Holle Stage 1 also offers a gradual introduction of complex carbohydrates, which helps prepare babies for when they are ready to try solids. Additionally, this formula offers a slight difference in the vitamins and minerals present, which are geared more towards the growth needs of a baby that is nearing six months of age and up.

Offering The Best Organic Nutrition

While both Holle Pre and Holle Stage 1 formulas are recommended from birth on, the main differences lie within the nutrient and carbohydrate makeup of each. Both formulas do offer complete nutrition that meet the regulatory standards for infant formulas. Both of these formulas use Demeter-certified milk, meeting the highest of standards for quality and safety guidelines as a way to aid optimal development from the start. Whichever formula you choose, you can rest assured that they contain no added sugars or preservatives and contain no GMOs. They are also free of hormones, steroids, artificial chemicals, flavoring, corn syrup, gluten and soy. These organic baby formulas are a perfect pick for parents who want to offer their little ones a healthy organic option that is derived from happy free-range cows, containing all the nutrients babies need and no additives that they don’t!