Why do parents choose European formula?

Every infant formula sold in the EU must meet detailed EU rules on its composition, from protein and fat levels to vitamins and minerals. Many of the brands we carry, such as HiPP®, Holle®, Jovie® and Löwenzahn®, are also certified organic under EU organic rules. Parents often tell us they like the clear ingredient lists, the organic certification and the formulas they or their friends grew up with.

Why can't I buy your formulas in my local grocery store?

These formulas are made and labeled for the European or Australian market, so they aren't stocked in most stores outside those regions.

How do I choose the right formula?

Every baby is different, so there's no single right answer. Start with your baby's age and stage, then any special needs your pediatrician has mentioned. Our Formula Prep guide explains the stages and types, and our team is happy to help you compare options. For any medical concern, your pediatrician is always the best guide.

When should I start formula?

There's no single right time. Some parents formula-feed from birth, some combine breast milk and formula, and some breastfeed well into toddlerhood. Talk to your pediatrician first. If you start formula or switch brands, do it gradually so your baby can adjust.

How do I prepare European or Australian formula?

Preparation matters a lot. Too much water dilutes the nutrients, and too little makes the formula too concentrated. Always follow the instructions on your tin or box exactly, because water temperature, scoop sizes and water amounts differ between brands and stages.

The basics:

• Wash your hands and use sterilized bottles and nipples.
• Boil fresh water and let it cool to the temperature on your tin.
• Measure the water first, then add the exact number of level scoops from the scoop included in your tin.
• Close the bottle tightly and shake until fully mixed.
• Check the temperature on your wrist before feeding. It should feel warm, not hot.

Use prepared formula within 2 hours at room temperature, or within 24 hours if stored in the fridge, unless your tin says otherwise. Never save leftover formula from a feed. Our Formula Prep guide has step-by-step charts for each brand.

Can I use your formulas with a Baby Brezza machine?

Yes. We can't advise on specific settings, but the Settings Finder on Baby Brezza's website shows the right settings for your formula.

How do I read the expiry date?

European and Australian tins print dates as day/month/year. For example, 30/07/2027 or 30.07.2027 means July 30, 2027.

Every order arrives with at least 6 months of shelf life remaining, and most formulas have a year or more. If you ever receive a tin with less than 6 months, please contact us.

Is formula safe if the can is dented or the box is crushed?

Yes, as long as the inner packaging that touches the formula is sealed and undamaged. Cosmetic damage to a can or outer box doesn't affect the formula, and we can't offer refunds for it. If a pouch is torn or a can's freshness seal is broken, please send us photos at hello@themilkybox.com and we'll make sure you get a usable product.

Where does Sprout Organic® ship from?

Directly from our fulfillment partner in Australia.

Why does Sprout ship differently from your other formulas?

Sprout Organic® is an Australian brand. As an official US distributor, we work closely with the brand's owners and ship straight from Australia. That keeps supply lines short and your stock fresh. Read more in our guide to buying Sprout Organic in the USA.

Is Sprout from The Milky Box genuine?

Yes. We source directly through the brand, not through third parties.

Where can I order Sprout?

Sprout ships to all the same places as our other formulas: North America (the United States and Canada), South America, Asia and Australia. Like all our products, it isn't sold or shipped to the EU.

I ordered Sprout with another formula. Why did I get two tracking numbers?

Your Sprout ships from Australia and your other formula ships from the EU. They travel as separate parcels and may arrive on different days.

Do the same reshipment, claim and cancellation rules apply to Sprout?

Yes. Everything on this page applies to Sprout orders, counted from the day your parcel leaves Australia.