Bobbie vs. ByHeart vs. Kendamil: A Comprehensive Guide to Choosing the Best Baby Formula

When choosing an infant formula, you might have seen parents talk about three popular formula brands: Bobbie, ByHeart, and Kendamil.

Each of these brands has unique qualities, and all are gaining attention from parents looking for high-quality formula options - especially on social media sites. But how do they compare?

This post will dive into the similarities and differences between Bobbie, ByHeart, and Kendamil to help you make an informed decision for your little one.

Remember - each of the formulas is FDA-reviewed and has been proven to support infant growth and development.

One formula is not better than the other. The best formula is the one your baby thrives on that you feel good about.

>>> Need expert help to find the right formula for your baby? Get personalized baby formula recommendations from a nurse practitioner and formula expert <<<

Bobbie vs. ByHeart vs. Kendamil - An Overview

Bobbie History: 

Bobbie is a U.S.-based organic infant formula company founded in 2018 based out of San Francisco. It prides itself on offering a formula designed for babies who may not be exclusively breastfed, and it emphasizes European-style standards with organic ingredients.

Philosophy and Research: Bobbie focuses on transparency and providing clean, nutritious formula options. The company aims to support mothers in their feeding choices and was the first U.S. formula to meet both USDA Organic and EU-style nutritional guidelines.

Manufacturing and Ingredient Sourcing: Bobbie manufactures its formula in the United States. Although it is a U.S.-based company, Bobbie takes inspiration from European formula standards, particularly regarding ingredient quality and nutrition. All of Bobbie's formulas are USDA Organic-certified, meaning they meet stringent organic standards, which prohibit the use of synthetic pesticides, antibiotics, and genetically modified organisms (GMOs).

Bobbie sources its organic milk from Organic Valley, a co-op of American organic dairy farms. The milk is sourced from pasture-raised cows, ensuring higher-quality, ethically produced ingredients. The company also avoids the use of corn syrup, palm oil, and synthetic additives.

Manufacturing Location: Bobbie's formula is produced in the United States at a facility that adheres to the FDA’s strict guidelines for infant formula production. By manufacturing domestically, Bobbie ensures closer oversight and faster production times, reducing the reliance on international shipping and helping meet the demand for high-quality organic formula.

ByHeart History:

ByHeart is another U.S.-based formula company that entered the market in 2022. ByHeart stands out because it owns and controls its entire supply chain, including manufacturing and ingredient sourcing.

Philosophy and Research: ByHeart has a strong focus on research and innovation. It is one of the few companies to make its formula "from farm to formula," ensuring high-quality ingredients that undergo rigorous testing. They invest heavily in science, and their formula is clinically proven to reduce spit-up, gas, and fussiness.

Manufacturing and Ingredient Sourcing: ByHeart controls its entire supply chain. This means that from sourcing raw ingredients to the final product, everything is handled in-house. ByHeart’s ingredients include organic, non-GMO, grass-fed dairy sourced from small, family-owned farms in the U.S. They are committed to full transparency in sourcing and ensuring that their ingredients meet rigorous nutritional and safety standards.

One of ByHeart’s standout features is that it avoids using corn syrup, maltodextrin, or soy. Their formulas are free from unnecessary additives and fillers, focusing on whole ingredients.

Manufacturing Location: ByHeart operates its own manufacturing facility in Reading, Pennsylvania. By owning the entire process—from sourcing raw materials to production—they can ensure the highest quality control and safety standards. This “farm-to-formula” approach allows them to have complete visibility and control over every step, which is rare in the infant formula industry.

Kendamil History:

Kendamil is a British brand with over 60 years of experience in infant nutrition. It has become popular for its full-cream formula made with locally sourced, organic ingredients from farms in the UK.

Philosophy and Research: Kendamil takes a natural approach to formula production, using full-cream milk, no palm oil, and only vegetarian-friendly ingredients. The brand is passionate about sustainability and uses only grass-fed cows.

Manufacturing and Ingredient Sourcing: Kendamil is produced in the Lake District of England. The brand sources its ingredients from local, organic, and sustainable farms across the UK. Unlike many other formulas, Kendamil uses full-cream milk, which is more nutrient-rich and provides essential fats for infant growth. The brand avoids using palm oil and fish oil, making it vegetarian-friendly, and instead uses plant-based DHA sourced from algae.

The milk used in Kendamil formulas is sourced from grass-fed cows that are raised on organic, sustainable farms. This commitment to using local, organic ingredients ensures that the formula is of the highest quality, with a focus on ethical and sustainable farming practices.

Manufacturing Location: Kendamil formulas are manufactured entirely in the UK, specifically in Kendal, a town in the Lake District. The company operates its own state-of-the-art facility, which has been making infant formulas for over 60 years. This facility meets both UK and EU standards for infant formula production. Their commitment to sustainability is reflected in their production processes, which aim to minimize environmental impact.

Key Differences in Bobbie, ByHeart, and Kendamil Baby Formula

All three formulas comply with FDA regulations, ensuring that they support infant growth and development. Each contains proteins, fats, carbs, vitamins, and minerals, but here’s how they compare:

>>>Get your free guide to understanding formula ingredients by clicking here<<<

Proteins in Bobbie vs. ByHeart vs. Kendamil: Supporting Growth

Why is protein important? Proteins are essential for building muscles, tissues, and organs in babies. The type of protein used in formula can impact digestion and overall health.

• Bobbie: Uses non-fat milk with 60:40 whey-to-casein ratio, closely mimicking the protein ratio found in breast milk. Bobbie uses organic lactose as its only carbohydrate, avoiding corn syrup or maltodextrin.

• ByHeart: Features whole milk as a base with a whey-to-casein ratio of 80:20, making it easier to digest. ByHeart includes proteins that are less processed, helping reduce digestive discomfort.

• Kendamil: Uses whole milk and maintains a whey-to-casein ratio of 60:40. Kendamil’s whole-milk base provides more naturally occurring milk fats.

Fats in Bobbie vs. ByHeart vs. Kendamil: Essential for Brain Development

Fats are crucial for brain development, providing energy and aiding in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins.

• Bobbie: Uses a blend of organic sunflower or safflower, coconut, and soy oils. Bobbie does not use palm oil, which some parents avoid due to concerns over constipation.

• ByHeart: Includes a fat blend from organic high-oleic sunflower oil, organic canola oil, and organic coconut oil. Like Bobbie, ByHeart does not use palm oil.

• Kendamil: Stands out by using whole milk fat instead of relying on vegetable oils, which closely mimics the fat content of breast milk. Kendamil also avoids palm oil and uses plant-based DHA derived from algae.

Carbohydrates in Bobbie vs. ByHeart vs. Kendamil: Fuel for Growth

Carbohydrates are the main source of energy for infants, helping fuel rapid growth and development.

• Bobbie: Uses 100% organic lactose as the sole carbohydrate. Bobbie is free from added sugars like corn syrup or glucose syrup.

• ByHeart: Also uses lactose as its primary carbohydrate source, though it is not organic.

• Kendamil: Contains lactose as the primary carbohydrate. The organic formula uses organic lactose, while the standard formula does not use organic lactose.

DHA and ARA in Bobbie vs. ByHeart vs. Kendamil: Brain and Eye Development

DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) and ARA (arachidonic acid) are omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, critical for the development of the brain and eyes.

• Bobbie: Contains DHA sourced from algae, a plant-based option that supports brain and eye development. Bobbie does not include ARA.

• ByHeart: Includes both DHA and ARA, mimicking the fatty acids found in breast milk. ByHeart’s DHA is also plant-based, making it a vegetarian-friendly option.

• Kendamil: Provides DHA derived from marine algae, making it free from fish oil. Kendamil includes both DHA and ARA in amounts that align with EU regulations, which are slightly higher than U.S. standards.

Prebiotics and Probiotics in Bobbie vs. ByHeart vs. Kendamil: Supporting Digestive Health

Prebiotics and probiotics are important for gut health, helping promote the growth of good bacteria and supporting immune function.

• Bobbie: Includes organic prebiotics (galactooligosaccharides), but does not contain probiotics.

• ByHeart: Contains a unique blend of prebiotics and probiotics that may reduce gas, spit-up, and fussiness in babies.

• Kendamil: Features prebiotics (galactooligosaccharides), but does not contain probiotics.

What Makes These Formulas Different?

• Bobbie is ideal for parents looking for an organic, U.S.-made formula that avoids palm oil and closely mimics breast milk with simple, clean ingredients.

• ByHeart stands out for its commitment to controlling every step of its supply chain, offering a formula proven to reduce fussiness and digestive issues. It has a higher percentage of whey to casein than Bobbie or Kendamil.

• Kendamil offers a whole-milk formula that provides natural fats and avoids palm oil. It’s a top choice for parents seeking a more traditional European formula that is FDA reviewed.

Pricing and Availability of Bobbie, ByHeart, and Kendamil

• Bobbie: Available through subscription, online retailers, and at stores like Target.

• ByHeart: Sold directly from the company’s website through a subscription model and in stores at Target and other retailers.

• Kendamil: Available in the U.S. through online retailers like Target, Walmart, and specialty stores. Kendamil is considered a high-end formula, priced similarly to other European-style options. Kendamil is imported from the UK, meaning it was affected by the port strikes in 2024. This resulted in many families being unable to find Kendamil on the shelves.

Which Formula Is Right for Your Baby?

Choosing between Bobbie, ByHeart, and Kendamil depends on your baby’s unique needs, your preferences for ingredients, and availability. Here are a few final considerations:

• Consult Your Pediatric Provider: Always discuss your baby’s health and needs with your pediatrician before switching formulas. They can provide personalized recommendations.

• Observe Your Baby’s Response: Pay attention to how your baby reacts to the formula. Signs like gas, spit-up, or changes in stool may indicate the need for a different option.

  • Click here to learn about how to know if your baby is tolerating a new formula.

• Try Different Formulas: Sometimes finding the right formula takes a little trial and error. If you have questions about which formula is best for your baby, I can help!

By understanding the differences and considering your baby’s specific needs, you can choose the best formula to support their growth and development.

Whether you choose Bobbie, ByHeart, or Kendamil, each offers high-quality, nutritious options for your baby. Each formula is reviewed by the FDA and will promote growth and development in your baby.

Your decision might come down to ingredient preferences, how your baby responds, or even pricing and availability. With careful consideration, you’ll be able to make the right choice for your little one’s feeding journey.