HiPP Stages:
Before we dive into the comparison, we must understand the stage system in HiPP formulas. Each stage corresponds to a specific age range, and the formulations are tailored to provide the essential nutrients required for optimal growth and well-being. Let’s explore the stages of HiPP Organic Baby Formula:
Stage 1: Infant Formula (0-6 months):
“When you buy something using my links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. This is a kind of support to me. This website doesn’t accept money for reviews. “
The first stage, designed for newborns up to 6 months old, is HiPP’s infant formula. This formulation is crafted to mimic the composition of breast milk as closely as possible. It contains a balanced blend of nutrients, including proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals, to support healthy growth and development during the critical early months of life.
HiPP German has two formulas in stage 1 (PRE and STAGE 1) while Dutch and UK versions have one formula (STAGE 1).
Stage 2: Follow-On Formula (6-12 months):
As babies transition into the next phase of their development, their nutritional needs change. HiPP’s follow-on formula, intended for infants aged 6 to 12 months, adjusts its composition to provide the necessary nutrients that complement the introduction of solid foods. This stage often includes higher iron content and a more complex blend of proteins to support the baby’s increasing energy demands and cognitive development.
HiPP German has three formulas in stage 2; from 6 to 10 months it has STAGE 2 and STAGE 2 (NO STARCH) and from 10 to 12 months it has STAGE 3, it’s a little confusing but it’s necessary to understand this in order to give your baby what he really needs. On the other hand, Dutch and UK versions have one formula (STAGE 2).
Stage 3: Toddler Milk (1 year and beyond):
Once a baby reaches their first birthday, they move into the toddler phase. HiPP’s toddler milk formulas are specifically designed to cater to the nutritional needs of children aged 1 year and beyond. At this stage, the formula continues to provide essential nutrients while accommodating the varied dietary intake of a growing toddler. The composition may be adjusted to reflect the increasing dietary diversity, with a focus on supporting brain development, bone health, and immune function.
In stage 3, HiPP German has one formula called (STAGE 1+) for babies between 12 and 24 months whereas Dutch and UK versions have one formula called (STAGE 3). The UK formula is suitable for babies between 12 and 48 months.
HiPP Stage 1 German Vs Dutch Vs UK:
HiPP Stage 1 Comparison Chart:
All HiPP stage 1 are GMO-Free, corn-free, soy-free, and have no added artificial sweeteners. Also, all the ingredients in these formulas are organic and certified by the EU.
Furthermore, they are enriched with Omega 3 and Omega 6 fatty acids which are essential polyunsaturated fats that play vital roles in the growth and development of infants and young children.
Moreover, they contain L-Carnitine which serves several essential functions, especially in the formulas designed for infants and young children like energy production, brain development, heart health, Immune System Support, and Muscle Development. The EU regulation obliges HiPP formulas to add L-Carnitine for all infant formula (0-6 months).
However, HiPP German stage 1 is not starch-free contrary to HiPP Dutch and the UK. Also, the German and Dutch formulas have a prebiotic and a probiotic whereas the UK version has only a prebiotic.
Related: HiPP German PRE Vs Stage 1 Vs Stage 2 Vs Stage 3: Full Comparison
HiPP Stage 1 Ingredient Comparison:
HiPP Stage 1 Protein Source:
Across HiPP Organic Baby Formulas in German, Dutch, and UK variants, a consistent protein source is employed, combining organic skim milk and whey protein in a balanced 60:40 whey-to-casein ratio. This protein blend mirrors breast milk’s composition, offering both rapid nourishment and sustained release for growth and digestion.
HiPP Stage 1 Carbohydrate Source:
HiPP German, Dutch, and UK formulas share a common carbohydrate source strategy that centers around the use of organic lactose, the natural sugar found in breast milk. In the case of the German Stage 1 formula, there’s a slight variation, incorporating 83% lactose and 14% starch, which provides a mix of energy sources to accommodate developing digestive systems.
Starch may provide also a sense of satiety due to its slower digestion compared to simpler carbohydrates. This can contribute to a feeling of fullness and satisfaction in infants.
For the subsequent stages in all variants, including Dutch and UK, lactose remains the primary carbohydrate source, ensuring infants receive easily digestible and consistent energy for growth and development.
Related: HiPP Dutch Stage 1 Vs Stage 2 Vs Stage 3: What’s The Difference?
HiPP Stage 1 Fat Source:
HiPP Organic Baby Formulas, including German, Dutch, and UK variants, feature a consistent fat-source combination of palm oil, rapeseed oil, and sunflower oil. This blend is strategically chosen to provide infants with a balanced and comprehensive supply of essential fatty acids, supporting their growth, cognitive development, and overall well-being.
HiPP Stage 1 Prebiotics:
All three countries include an important ingredient in their formulas called galactooligosaccharides (GOS) derived from organic lactose, which acts as prebiotics. Prebiotics help good bacteria grow in a baby’s tummy, supporting their digestion and overall tummy health.
HiPP Stage 1 Probiotics:
HiPP German and Dutch have a probiotic called Lactobacillus Fermentum Hereditum which is isolated from breast milk and aims to replicate the positive effects of probiotics found in breast milk. These live bacteria work by helping to maintain a favorable balance of gut bacteria, which can contribute to improved digestion, enhanced nutrient absorption, and the development of a stronger immune system. Furthermore, a well-balanced gut environment has been associated with reduced instances of gastrointestinal discomfort and colic in infants.
HiPP Stage 1 Nutrition Comparison:
HiPP Stage 1 Micronutrients and Vitamins:
In general, there isn’t a big difference between HiPP German, Dutch, and UK in micronutrients and vitamins. The Dutch and UK brand adds a slightly more vitamin D, vitamin E, vitamin B1, vitamin B2, vitamin B6, vitamin B12, Niacin, Pantothenic acid, Biotin, and vitamin C compared to German stage 1 but compared to German PRE it’s the same level.
In contrast, HiPP German stage 1 has slightly high levels of vitamin A, vitamin K, and Choline.
You may notice that for 100 ml the levels are the same for all countries, but don’t forget that for Germany the calories are 67 Cal in 100 ml while the others have 66 calories in 100 ml. Thus, when we converted to 100 Cal the levels will change.
Related: HiPP UK Stage 1 vs Stage 2 vs Stage 3: What’s The Difference?
HiPP Stage 1 Minerals:
In terms of minerals, the HiPP German Stage 1 has more Calcium, Iron, and Chloride whereas the others have more Magnesium, Zinc, and Iodine.
HiPP Stage 1 Price Comparison:
In terms of price, HiPP UK Stage 1 is the cheapest one with a price of 1.52$ /oz followed by HiPP Dutch Stage 1 which costs 1.66 /oz, and lastly, HiPP German which costs 1.79 /oz.
Where to Buy?
| Formula | Where to Buy |
|---|---|
| HiPP German PRE | Buy HERE |
| HiPP German Stage 1 | Buy HERE |
| HiPP German PRE RTF | Buy HERE |
| HiPP Dutch Stage 1 | Buy HERE |
| HiPP UK Stage 1 | Buy HERE |
Use this Promo Code to get 5% off on your orders: BABYFORMULA5
HiPP Stage 2 German Vs Dutch Vs UK:
HiPP Stage 2 Comparison Chart:
HiPP Stage 2 German, Dutch, and UK are GMO-Free, Corn-Free, EU organic certified, and have Omega 3 (DHA and ALA) and Omega 6 (LA).
However, there are some differences to take into consideration. For example, HiPP German it’s not starch-free and not soy-free because it contains Emulsifier Lecithins which are a group of natural compounds derived from sources such as soybeans, sunflowers, or egg yolks. Thus it has a little soy in it, so if your baby has a soy allergy and shows bad reactions to this formula, switch to the Dutch or UK formula.
All HiPP Stage 2 use only Linoleic acid as an Omega 6 source and doesn’t have Arachidonic acid.
Related: HiPP Organic Formula VS Enfamil Infant: Which One is The Best?
HiPP Stage 2 Ingredients Comparison:
HiPP Stage 2 Protein Source:
HiPP Stage 2 German, Dutch, and Uk have the same protein source which is always skim milk and whey protein but this time the whey to casein ratio is 40:60 because the baby now has more than 6 months and has started to eat solid foods, the HiPP formula try to equilibrate the nutritional value with baby growth, not like US formulas, they use one formula from 0 to 12 months.
HiPP Stage 2 Carbohydrate Source:
The Dutch and UK stage 2 opt for the simplicity of organic lactose, a natural sugar found in breast milk, ensuring babies get a familiar and easily digestible energy source. In contrast, the German formulation introduces a touch of variety by combining both lactose and starch. This blend, comprising the sweetness of lactose alongside the gradual energy release of starch, is aimed at providing infants with a balanced source of energy as they progress in their developmental journey.
Related: HiPP VS Bobbie: Which One is The Best?
HiPP Stage 2 Fat Source:
Across all three versions, a careful blend of palm oil, rapeseed oil, and sunflower oil is harnessed to provide a comprehensive array of essential fatty acids. These include crucial elements like DHA (Docosahexaenoic acid), ALA (Alpha-linoleic acid), and LA (Linoleic acid), which contribute to brain development and overall well-being. This shared commitment to incorporating these beneficial fats underlines HiPP’s dedication to holistic infant nutrition.
However, in stage 2 we don’t find ARA (arachidonic acid) which is a source of Omega 6 because the European Commission doesn’t require European Follow-On Formula to use it, it’s optional. However, the DHA is required for all formula stages.
HiPP Stage 2 Prebiotics:
All HiPP stage 2 contain a prebiotic called galactooligosaccharides (GOS) derived from organic lactose, it acts like a helper for the good bacteria (probiotics) in their tummies. It helps these bacteria grow and do their job even better. This can lead to a happier tummy and may even help reduce things like tummy discomfort.
HiPP Stage 2 Probiotics:
In terms of probiotics, the German and Dutch stage 2 have one called Lactobacillus Fermentum Hereditum which is isolated from breast milk and function as a probiotic agent within the infant’s gut. Probiotics are known to influence gut microbiota composition, aid in digestion, and contribute to immune modulation. However, HiPP UK doesn’t have one.
HiPP Stage 2 Nutrition Comparison:
HiPP Stage 2 Micronutrients and Vitamins:
In terms of micronutrients, all HiPP stage 2 have the same fat and carbohydrate levels except for protein, HiPP German stage 3 has a high level of protein (2.06 g/100 Cal).
Regarding vitamins, HiPP UK stage 2 has a low level of Folic acid (14.7 mcg /100 Cal) compared to other formulas that have 16.6 mcg /100 Cal. Except that they all have the same vitamin levels.
Furthermore, Choline and Inositol are missing in Stage 2.
HiPP Stage 2 Minerals:
In terms of minerals, all HiPP stage 2 have the same level. We notice that the iron level getting bigger because the baby now needs more iron and the EU requires European Follow-On Formula to use between 0.6 and 1.7 mg /100 Cal.
HiPP Stage 2 Price Comparison:
In terms of price, HiPP German Stage 2 formulas are available in 600g (21.16oz) cans and cost 37.99$ which is 1.79 /oz. In contrast, HiPP Dutch and UK are available in 800g (28.22 oz) cans but they differ in terms of price; the Dutch Stage 2 costs 46.99$ (1.66 /oz), and the UK Stage 2 costs 42.99$ (1.52 /oz).
Thus, the UK Stage 2 formula is the cheapest one.
Where to Buy?
| Formula | Where to Buy |
|---|---|
| HiPP German Stage 2 | Buy HERE |
| HiPP German Stage 2 (No Starch) | Buy HERE |
| HiPP German Stage 3 | Buy HERE |
| HiPP Dutch Stage 2 | Buy HERE |
| HiPP UK Stage 2 | Buy HERE |
Use this Promo Code to get 5% off on your orders: BABYFORMULA5
HiPP Stage 3 German Vs Dutch Vs UK:
HiPP Stage 3 Comparison Chart:
All HiPP Stage 3 are GMO-Free, Corn-Free, Soy-Free, Starch-Free, and EU organic certified. But, they don’t have the ARA fatty acid also the UK Stage 3 doesn’t have a probiotic.
HiPP Stage 3 Ingredients Comparison:
HiPP Stage 3 Protein Source:
HiPP Organic Baby Formulas Stage 3 showcase a consistent approach to protein sources across German, Dutch, and UK variants. Each variant employs a protein source primarily derived only from skim milk, maintaining a shared whey-to-casein ratio of 20:80.
This deliberate ratio offers infants a balance between the rapidly absorbed whey protein and the more slowly digested casein protein. This combination supports their growth, development, and sustained nutrition.
HiPP Stage 3 Carbohydrate Source:
HiPP Stage 3 German, Dutch, and UK use a unified carbohydrate source. All three variants conscientiously opt for organic lactose as the primary carbohydrate source. Lactose, a natural sugar found in breast milk, is chosen for its easy digestibility and its capacity to provide steady and reliable energy for babies’ continued growth and development.
HiPP Stage 3 Fat Source:
HiPP Stage 3 German, Dutch, and UK versions, exhibit a collective approach to fat sources. All three variants conscientiously incorporate a blend of palm oil, rapeseed oil, and sunflower oil, enriched with essential fatty acids like DHA, ALA, and LA.
Notably, while these formulations prioritize the inclusion of important fatty acids, they differentiate by abstaining from the use of ARA which means the Omega 6 level is low in this stage.
HiPP Stage 3 Prebiotics:
Like other stages, all HiPP Stage 3 have the galactooligosaccharides (GOS) prebiotic which is derived from organic lactose.
HiPP Stage 3 Probiotics:
HiPP Stage 3 German and Dutch have a probiotic called Lactobacillus Fermentum Hereditum which is isolated from breast milk and function as a probiotic agent within the infant’s gut, the “Limosilactobacillus Fermentum Hereditum” is the new name of Lactobacillus Fermentum Hereditum.
However, the UK Stage 3 doesn’t have a probiotic.
HiPP Stage 3 Nutrition Comparison:
HiPP Stage 3 Micronutrients and Vitamins:
In terms of vitamins, we notice that many vitamins are missing in the German Stage 1+ like vitamin K, vitamin B1, Vitamin B6, Niacin, and Pantothenic acid. However, it’s enriched a lot with vitamin D, Vitamin B2, vitamin B12, Folic acid, and Biotin.
In terms of micronutrients, HiPP Stage 3 Dutch and UK have been enriched with protein and carbs.
HiPP Stage 3 Minerals:
In terms of minerals, HiPP Stage 3 German doesn’t have manganese, copper, selenium, sodium, chloride, or fluoride. But, it’s enriched a lot with calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, iron, iodine, and potassium.
HiPP Stage 3 Price Comparison:
In terms of price, HiPP UK Stage 3 is the cheapest one with a price of 1.52 /oz.
Where to Buy?
Use this Promo Code to get 5% off on your orders: BABYFORMULA5
The Best One?
From what we saw, the best one to start with is the HiPP Dutch because it’s soy-free, starch-free, and has a prebiotic and a probiotic to help the baby’s gut health, also the price is affordable compared to the German version.
