Goat Milk Formula for Infants: A Complete Guide for Parents

Choosing the best formula for your baby can be overwhelming, especially with so many options.

One formula that’s been gaining attention and popularity with many families is the goat milk formula.

Parents are drawn to it because of its reputation for being easier on babies’ digestive systems and providing a gentler alternative to cow milk formula. But is it the right choice for your baby?

In this guide, I’ll break down everything you need to know about goat milk formula, from its benefits to how it compares with cow milk formula to the science behind its digestibility so you can decide if it is right for your family.

Why Is Goat Milk Formula So Popular?

Goat milk formula has grown in popularity over the last few years.

While the formula shortage of 2022 was challenging for so many families, there were some positive outcomes. The only formulas reviewed by the FDA prior to 2022 were cow milk-based. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and FDA began endorsing goat milk formulas as a viable option for infants, meaning the ingredients in the imported formulas were proven to support infant growth and development.

Many families appreciated this new option as goat milk is known for certain characteristics, such as being:

• Easier on digestion: Many parents find that goat milk formula is easier for their babies to digest compared to cow milk formula. This is partly due to the differences in fat structure and protein composition.

• Gentle on sensitive stomachs: Babies who experience digestive issues like gas, bloating, or constipation with cow milk formulas might do better with goat milk.

• Naturally nutrient-rich: Goat milk contains higher levels of certain vitamins and minerals, like vitamin A, than cow milk.

These qualities make goat milk formula an attractive option for parents looking for a formula that may cause fewer tummy troubles.

Is Goat Milk Formula Better Than Cow Milk Formula?

The question of whether goat milk formula is "better" depends on your baby’s needs. Here’s a closer look at how they compare:

• Digestibility: Goat milk contains smaller fat molecules and a different protein structure than cow milk, which may help some babies digest it more easily.

• Protein differences: Goat milk has lower levels of a protein called alpha-s1 casein, which is often harder for babies to digest. In contrast, cow milk has higher levels of this protein, which can cause discomfort for babies with sensitive tummies.

• Lactose content: Goat milk still contains lactose but in slightly lower amounts than cow milk. Babies who are mildly lactose intolerant might tolerate goat milk better, though it’s not lactose-free.

• Naturally high in prebiotics: Goat milk contains oligosaccharides, a type of prebiotic that supports healthy gut bacteria, which is important for a baby’s developing digestive system.

However, if your baby has a diagnosed cow’s milk protein allergy (CMPA), goat milk formula is generally not recommended. This is because the proteins in goat milk are still similar enough to cow milk proteins that they could trigger an allergic reaction.

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Understanding Goat Milk Proteins vs. Cow Milk Proteins

One of the biggest reasons goat milk formula is thought to be gentler on the stomach comes down to the difference in proteins. Let’s dive deeper into how proteins in goat milk formula compare to proteins in cow milk formula:

• Alpha-s1 casein levels: Cow milk contains higher levels of alpha-s1 casein, a protein that can be harder for babies to digest. In contrast, goat milk has much lower levels of this protein, which makes it more suitable for babies with sensitive digestive systems.

• Smaller curds: When goat milk hits stomach acid, it forms softer and smaller curds compared to cow milk. These softer curds are easier for babies to break down, leading to potentially fewer digestive issues.

• Whey-to-casein ratio: Goat milk has a whey-to-casein ratio that is closer to breast milk than cow milk, which can make it more easily digestible for babies. Whey is the protein that tends to be gentler on the stomach, while casein may be more difficult to digest for some babies.

These differences in protein structure are key factors in why many parents find goat milk formula to be a better fit for their babies, especially those who have trouble digesting cow milk formula.

Can You Use Goat Milk Instead of Goat Milk Formula?

If you’ve been on social media recently, you may have seen people talk about the benefits of raw goat milk. The social media trend makes parents wonder if they can just use plain goat milk instead of goat milk formula. For babies under 12 months, this isn’t recommended.

Here’s why:

• Lack of important nutrients: Goat milk on its own doesn’t have the proper balance of nutrients that infants need. Goat milk formula is specially designed to include added vitamins and minerals like iron, folic acid, and vitamin D to support a baby’s development.

• Too high in protein: Plain goat milk contains too much protein for a baby’s immature kidneys to handle. The high protein content can put a strain on their system.

• Low in certain essential nutrients: Goat milk is naturally low in certain nutrients, such as vitamin B12 and folate, which are crucial for a baby’s growth and development.

Stick to goat milk formula if you’re interested in giving your baby goat milk, and avoid using plain goat milk until your child is at least 12 months old.

I recommend pasteurized goat milk due to the risk of bacterial contamination in raw goat milk.

FDA-Reviewed Goat Milk Formula Brands

Here are three goat milk formula brands that are FDA-reviewed. This means that their recipe has been proven to support infant growth and development. All ingredients are within the defined limits of required nutrients for US formulas. Here is information on each:

1. Kabrita Goat Milk Formula

• Organic? No, but it is non-GMO.

• Carbohydrate source: Lactose and maltodextrin.

• Key features: Kabrita is designed to be gentle on digestion, and it includes prebiotics to support gut health. It’s fortified with vitamins and minerals to meet the nutritional needs of infants.

2. Aussie Bubs Goat Milk Formula

• Organic? Yes, certified organic.

• Carbohydrate source: Lactose.

• Key features: Aussie Bubs is A2 milk-based, which may make it even easier to digest for some babies. Being certified organic makes it a great choice for parents who prioritize organic ingredients.

3. Kendamil Goat Milk Formula

• Organic? Yes, Kendamil is certified organic.

• Carbohydrate source: Lactose.

• Key features: Kendamil uses full-cream goat milk, which provides a more natural source of fat and nutrition. It’s free from palm oil and known for being minimally processed.

As of now, there are no FDA-reviewed formulas that are made in the US, but I expect the market to change in the next few years.

Is Goat Milk Formula Recommended for Babies with CMPA?

Cow's Milk Protein Allergy (CMPA) is one of the most common food allergies in infants, affecting around 2-3% of babies.

It occurs when a baby’s immune system reacts negatively to the proteins found in cow’s milk, causing symptoms like digestive upset, skin rashes, and respiratory issues. Since goat milk also contains proteins similar to those found in cow's milk, it’s important to understand whether goat milk formula is a suitable option for babies with CMPA.

For babies with a diagnosed CMPA, goat milk formula is generally not recommended. Here's why:

• Similar proteins: Goat milk contains intact casein proteins similar to those in cow milk. Even though the specific protein makeup is slightly different, these proteins can still trigger an allergic reaction in babies with CMPA.

• Cross-reactivity: Studies show that the majority of infants with CMPA will also react to goat milk. This is because the immune system may not differentiate between the proteins in goat milk and those in cow milk.

What Is the Alternative for Babies with CMPA?

For infants with CMPA, pediatricians often recommend formulas that are specially designed for babies with allergies. These options include:

• Hypoallergenic (HA) formulas: These formulas use extensively hydrolyzed proteins, meaning the proteins are broken down so the body does not see them as foreign invaders. Hypoallergenic formulas are often recommended first by pediatric providers when they suspect cow milk protein allergies.

• Amino acid-based formulas: For severe cases of CMPA, amino acid-based formulas (which contain the building blocks of proteins rather than whole proteins) may be recommended. These formulas are completely free from cow's milk proteins.

• Soy formulas: Babies who react to cow milk proteins may also react to soy protein. It may be an option for some families, as recommended by a pediatric provider.

>>>Click here to learn more about infant formulas for cow milk protein allergies <<<

Questions Parents Might Have About Goat Milk Formulas

Can goat milk formula help with reflux?
It depends! There are multiple causes of reflux in infants, including weak muscles, overfeeding and cow milk protein allergies along with other causes.

Some parents report that their babies with reflux do better on goat milk formula due to its gentler proteins and smaller fat particles.

While it’s not a guaranteed fix for reflux, the easier digestibility may reduce spit-up and discomfort in some babies, though others may not have any improvement.

How long does it take to see results after switching to goat milk formula?
It typically takes about 1-2 weeks for a baby’s digestive system to adjust to a new formula. If you don’t see improvements within this time frame, or if your baby’s symptoms worsen at any time, consult your pediatric provider.

Important Considerations for Parents Choosing Goat Milk Formula

Before switching to goat milk formula, keep these important points in mind:

• Consult your pediatrician: Always talk to your pediatrician provider before making a switch, especially if your baby has digestive issues or allergies.

• Allergy concerns: Goat milk formula is not recommended for babies with CMPA, as the proteins are similar and could trigger an allergic reaction.

• Cost: Goat milk formula tends to be more expensive than cow milk formula, so factor this into your decision.

• Availability: While goat milk formula is becoming more popular, it may not be as readily available in stores. However, it’s usually easy to find online.

Final Thoughts

Goat milk formula can be a great option for babies who struggle with cow milk formulas, thanks to its gentler proteins and fats. It’s packed with nutrients, comes in organic options, and is available in FDA-reviewed brands that you can trust. If you’re considering making the switch, consult with your pediatrician and explore the options that will best suit your baby’s needs.

*Erin Moore, CPNP, CLC is a pediatric nurse practitioner and lactation counselor, but she is not your baby’s NP or CLC. At no time does the information provided by Ms. Moore supersede the information provided by your baby’s pediatric provider. Please consult your provider for any medical questions.

Sources:

1. American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP):
   The AAP provides guidelines on infant formula and feeding practices, including information on milk protein allergies.

• AAP Guidelines on Infant Formula

2. National Institutes of Health (NIH):
   A useful resource for understanding the differences in milk proteins and digestive science.

• NIH Study on Milk Protein Digestion

3. Kabrita USA:
   Information on Kabrita's goat milk formula, its ingredients, and benefits.

• Kabrita USA Goat Milk Formula

4. Aussie Bubs:
   Details about Aussie Bubs goat milk formula, including organic certification and ingredients.

• Aussie Bubs Goat Milk Formula

5. Kendamil:
   Information on Kendamil's organic goat milk formula and its features.

• Kendamil Goat Milk Formula