Infant formula is a commercially produced food designed and sold for feeding infants and babies under the age of 12 months, usually ready for cup-fitting or bottle-fed or Sippy-feeding from liquid or powdered powder. It is one of the most commonly used food items in the world, with sales figures estimated at more than US$ 60 billion annually. The majority of infant formula is water-based, though some specialty food items are available, especially with a wheat base. Most baby formula brands are of the soft type, rather than the solid variety, as babies tend to be more comfortable with the softer feeding.
A wide range of flavors and food varieties are available, both to cater to specific tastes and food groups. It is often served plain, with added fruit or spice, or in various sizes, depending on how much one would like to give as a serving. The benefits of infant formulas can be credited to their composition consisting mostly of water, along with other substances that may be recommended by food authorities. Although infant formulas are nutritionally adequate, their main advantage over breast milk is that they cost less, especially when compared to hospital delivery.
This fact is reinforced by studies showing that formula feeding reduces the incidence of certain childhood illnesses such as ear infections, diarrhea and rashes, and respiratory problems. There are currently three major types of infant formula available. They are cow milk-based, soy-based, and rice/soy-based formulas. Furthermore, there are now infant formulas with a combination of these three that have shown better results than any of the individual types. The most common infant formula type is cow milk-based. Recently, in August 2020, Else Nutrition launched plant-based toddler formula in the U.S. following over 7 years of R&D.
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