Formula Recall 2024: Hypoallergenic Alternatives


By: Suzanne Renee'  - January 10, 2024 - 13 Minute Read

Formula recall 2024 | The Milky Box

Parents and caregivers must be aware of the recent recall of 675,030 cans of Nutramigen hypoallergenic infant formula due to dangerous bacterial contamination. This is in addition to the February 2022 Similac recall, which has further limited the availability of American formula. If you have any affected cans, it is essential to dispose of them immediately to ensure the safety and health of your little one.


Unfortunately, the current recall has also limited the availability of American formula, which may have left some families wondering where to turn. Don't worry; safe and reliable alternatives like European baby formulas offer great nutritional and digestive support, even for the most sensitive infants.


In this article, we have compiled some information on safe alternatives to help you find the best nutrition for your little one. So, no need to worry! Keep reading and rest easy, knowing your baby gets the best care possible.

Why is Nutramigen Being Recalled?

In December 2023, Nutramigen Hypoallergenic Powdered Infant Formula, produced at a US Michigan facility, tested positive for Cronobacter Species.


Cronobacter Species, previously known as Enterobacter Sakazakii, are pathogenic bacteria that can cause necrotizing enterocolitis, bacteremia, and meningitis, primarily in neonates. Infection in vulnerable infants has been linked to the consumption of contaminated powdered infant formula.

Cronobacter Species | The Milky Box

What Is the FDA Doing About Infant Formula Recalls?

When a company recalls, withdraws from the market, or issues a safety alert, the FDA publishes the company's announcement as a public service. On December 31, 2023, Reckitt/Mead Johnson Nutrition voluntarily recalled certain Nutramigen Hypoallergenic Infant Formula Powder products due to potential Cronobacter Sakazakii contamination. 


The FDA alerted parents, caregivers, and healthcare providers about this recall. As of the date of this article, no illnesses have been reported in connection with this recall, and it is believed most of the products distributed in the U.S. have already been consumed.

Infant Formula Recalls | The Milky Box

What is the Alternative to Hypoallergenic Formula?

Parents must prioritize safety when it comes to infant nutrition. The task of finding a reliable alternative to baby formula can be daunting.


Every formula aspect is vital to the infant's development, from ingredient sourcing to manufacturing. The formula must ensure no harmful pesticides, GMOs, soy, preservatives, non-lactose sugars, or heavy metals are present.


Proper oversight and strict regulations are necessary to guarantee optimal nutritional support for your baby. These measures ensure that the formula meets your baby's dietary requirements without toxic or harmful ingredients.

Organic Hypoallergenic Formulas from Europe

European brands provide a wide range of hypoallergenic infant formulas to choose from. Each formula carries a unique nutritional composition that promotes the growth and health of your baby. European HA Baby formulas are designed to meet the dietary needs of babies susceptible to allergies.

HiPP HypoAllergenic (HA)

HiPP HA has provided high-quality hydrolyzed feeding options for infants with lactose sensitivity for a long time. Hydrolyzation breaks down cow's milk proteins into smaller pieces, eliminating casein. This unique process can help alleviate skin problems, hay fever-like symptoms, and digestive issues caused by lactose intolerance.

Hydrolyzed Protein

HiPP HA formula is a specialized infant formula that contains partially hydrolyzed proteins. This means the proteins are broken down into smaller fragments, making them easier for babies to digest. HiPP HA formula includes proteins that are only partially broken down, with approximately 86-87% of the protein molecules being hydrolyzed. As a result, this formula is gentle on the stomach and is suitable for babies who have difficulty digesting standard formulas.

Nutrient-Rich

HiPP HA Combiotic formulas are carefully designed to meet the specific nutritional needs of infants at different stages of their growth and development. These formulas are expertly crafted with a unique combination of high-quality protein from whey, essential vitamins, minerals, and Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids necessary for your baby's overall health and well-being.


The whey protein in HiPP HA Combiotic formulas is hydrolyzed to make it easier for your baby to digest. It can be particularly beneficial for infants with a sensitive digestive system. The formulas also contain prebiotics and probiotics, which help to maintain a healthy gut microbiome, support digestion, and boost immunity.


The essential vitamins and minerals in HiPP HA Combiotic formulas are carefully balanced to support your baby's healthy growth and development. The formulas contain vitamin D, which helps promote strong bones and teeth, and iron, essential for healthy blood cell formation.


In addition, HiPP HA Combiotic formulas are sourced from organic farming and free from harmful chemicals or pesticides. As a result, you can be confident that your baby is receiving the best nutrition to support their healthy growth, strong immunity, and cognitive development.

Prebiotics and Probiotics

HiPP HA infant formula contains natural probiotic lactic acid cultures extracted from real breast milk. These cultures and prebiotics help to strengthen your baby's intestinal wall, providing an extra layer of protection against allergens and unwanted bacteria. Moreover, the prebiotics and probiotics present in the HiPP HA formula promote healthy digestion and support your baby's immune system.

HiPP HypoAllergenic Baby Formula | The Milky Box

HiPP HypoAllergenic Baby Formula Stages & Comparison

HiPP Hypoallergenic offers a range of high-quality formulas carefully designed to cater to the unique needs of every child from birth to weaning.


The best part? The HiPP HA formula is gentle on even the most sensitive systems and provides all the nutrients for healthy growth and development. So, you can rest assured that your baby is getting the best possible nutrition to support their growth.

HiPP HypoAllergenic | The Milky Box

We understand that as a parent, caregiver, or healthcare provider, the safety and well-being of your child is your top priority. Whether your little one is dealing with colic, reflux, or other digestive issues, you can trust HiPP HA to provide them with the nourishment they need to thrive.

Dairy-free Baby Formula Options

European dairy-free formula options have become increasingly popular for infants and young children with allergies or intolerances to cow's milk protein (CMPA) or lactose. These formulas are specially formulated to provide all the nutrients and vitamins required for healthy growth and development without using dairy-based ingredients.


Dairy-free formulas can address these issues using alternative protein sources, such as hydrolyzed rice. These formulas have been extensively researched and tested to ensure they provide the same level of nutrition as traditional dairy-based formulas.


In addition to being a hypoallergenic alternative for those with CMPA or lactose intolerance, dairy-free formulas can also be a good option for parents who choose to avoid dairy products for personal or dietary reasons.

Hydrolyzed Rice Protein

Families looking for safe and healthy baby formula for their little ones with dietary restrictions, such as lactose intolerance or milk protein allergies, may find that hydrolyzed rice protein baby formula is the perfect option. This dairy-free and nutritious baby food source is backed by extensive research. These formulas undergo enzymatic hydrolysis to make the proteins easily digestible and soluble in water, ensuring that your baby receives the necessary nutrients for proper growth and development.


These formulas contain fat derived from vegetable oils and have a similar fat content to conventional formulas. Hydrolyzed rice protein makes these formulas lactose-free, making them an excellent option for babies with unique dietary needs. As a result, alternative sources such as corn starch or dextrin-maltose are used to provide carbohydrates instead of corn syrup solids. This provides a balanced, safe, and healthy source of nutrition for your little one, ensuring they receive the necessary balance of nutrients without adverse reactions.

Hydrolyzed Rice Protein | The Milky Box

Bébé M Organic Vegan Formula

Bébé M has created an exceptional organic infant formula for babies with various dietary requirements. Their formula is powder and free from milk, soy, palm oil, and gluten. Instead, it's made with hydrolyzed rice protein, which makes it perfect for babies with lactose intolerance.


What sets Bébé M's vegan baby formula apart is its production process, which uses controlled temperatures throughout manufacturing to protect and preserve the nutrients. Additionally, they follow the strict European infant formula regulations, so you can be assured that this formula is 100% safe for your baby.

Anti- Reflux Formula

Bébé M infant formula includes carob gum, a natural thickening agent from carob trees. This ingredient helps to prevent gastroesophageal reflux in infants by thickening the formula and keeping the food in their stomachs. As a result, it reduces the discomfort or pain associated with reflux.


Furthermore, carob gum is high in fiber, which assists in promoting regular bowel movements in infants and preventing constipation. Babies who consume Bébé M formula will experience more comfortable and familiar bowel movements.


Carob gum is an essential ingredient in the Bébé M formula that supports your little one's digestion and overall growth.

BeBeM | The Milky Box

Prémibio Organic Vegan Formula

Prémibio is a renowned provider of organic infant nutrition specially formulated to cater to babies' growth and developmental needs at every stage of their development. They make their products without using palm or fish oil, which ensures that infants of all ages and conditions have optimal digestive health. 


Prémibio is committed to using only the highest quality ingredients, offering parents a safe, reliable, and efficient solution for nourishing families with special dietary needs and babies with food allergies.

Organic Vegan Formula

Prémibio has obtained its certification from AB - Agriculture Biologique France Organic and aligned itself with the EU certification to ensure strict regulation of the entire process, from farming to production. Each process step is meticulously and sustainably sourced from farms prioritizing animal welfare without using pesticides, herbicides, chemicals, or GMOs. With a practical approach, this organic certification aims to support local communities.


Prémibio's organic ingredients, similar to traditional formulas, support cognitive and physical development. The product contains 100% natural calcium, natural Vitamin E, and natural magnesium sourced from the ocean, working with plant-based DHA to provide optimal nutrition for your baby from birth through the toddler years.

Premibio vs BeBe M | The Milky Box

Finding the perfect baby formula for your little one could overwhelm parents. There are several challenges in identifying formulas that meet their baby's nutritional requirements, ensuring their safety, considering allergens, and budget constraints.


However, parents need not worry as there are many options available. For instance, Bebe M and Premibio Organic are remarkable soy and dairy-free formulas that cater to parents seeking vegan alternatives to organic goat milk or cow's milk-based formula, which aligns with their ethical and dietary preferences.


It is essential to consult healthcare professionals to receive personalized advice tailored to your baby's unique needs and circumstances.

Hypoallergenic Alternatives

Choosing the right baby formula for your little one is crucial for parents. With so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming and daunting. Parents must consider many factors, such as their baby's age, dietary restrictions, and nutritional requirements. Moreover, the frequent recalls of US baby formulas have made parents more cautious about what they feed their little ones. Therefore, finding the perfect nutrition that meets all the necessary criteria can be challenging and time-consuming.


The Milky Box offers safe alternatives for all babies, including those with lactose allergies. We have organic dairy-free formulas such as Bebe M and Premibio Organic, which cater to parents seeking vegan alternatives. Additionally, we have HiPP Hypoallergenic (HA) for families that prefer a cow's milk-based formula that aligns with their ethical and dietary preferences. 


We recommend consulting your healthcare professional for personalized advice tailored to your baby's unique needs and circumstances.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will insurance pay for the hypoallergenic formula?

Insurance companies may cover the cost of hypoallergenic formula if it is deemed medically necessary. Speak to your medical provider for more information.

How many cans of Nutramigen Hypoallergenic Powdered Infant Formula were recalled?

This latest baby formula recall involves more than 675,000 cans due to the possibility of contamination.

Where can I find safe Alternatives to Nutramigen Hypoallergenic Powdered Infant Formula?

TheMilkBox.com offers a range of safe and nutritious products for infants prone to lactose allergy.

Disclaimer:


Please be aware that this information is based on general trends in babies, and it is not medical advice. Your doctor should be your first source of information and advice when considering any changes to your child’s formula and when choosing your child’s formula. Always consult your pediatrician before making any decisions about your child’s diet or if you notice any changes in your child.


Breastfeeding is the best nutrition for your baby because breast milk provides your child with all the essential nutrients they need for growth and development. Please consult your pediatrician if your child requires supplemental feeding.


Suzanne Renee' is an accomplished professional with extensive expertise in the area of infant nutrition, dedicated to promoting the health and wellbeing of children. She started this journey as a foster parent. Suzanne has emerged as a strong proponent of the European baby formula and has become a full time writer of the subject. In her free time, she enjoys camping, hiking and going to church.

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Reviewed by Dr. Eric Wood, ND, MA

Dr. Wood is a licensed naturopathic doctor, with a doctorate degree from the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine in Toronto, Canada. He received his post-graduation certification in Mind Body Medicine at Harvard University.


With 15 years of experience, Dr. Wood is an Associate Professor of Holistic Nutrition at the American College of Health Sciences in Portland, Oregon. Dr. Wood is an educator, clinician, author, media figure, consultant, and owns his own holistic (naturopathic) medical practice in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. Dr. Wood is currently researching and drafting books on cancer and pediatrics.


Outside of the medical profession, Dr. Wood loves singing with the Miami Lyric Opera and is an avid musician in South Florida. He also loves spending time with his wife and kids.