Sometimes there is a need to switch infant or follow on formula brands, and this can be cause for anxiety in some parents. Before you make this decision, it is important to speak with your doctor or MCH Nurse so they can advise you, based on your baby and your individual circumstances. Some particular considerations that should be made are; if they were premature or of low birth weight, or they have specific nutrition needs.
Babies digestive systems are quite immature so the transition should take place slowly so they have plenty of time to adapt to the formula. The taste may also be quite different so this needs to be planned for also.
The following plan relates to a 4-6 month old baby, having four feeds a day. This is by no means set in stone and is just one example of how to do it, and can serve as a useful guide when starting out.
DAY | INSTRUCTIONS |
Day 1 – 50 ml substitution | Start the feed with 50 ml (or around one scoop) of the new formula brand, finish the feed with the brand currently used, less around 50ml. Make sure you follow the instructions on the new brand regarding water volume versus powdered formula, as these measurements differ between brands. Continue with your current brand formula for feeds for the rest day. |
Day 2 – 50 ml substitution for two feeds |
Start the feed with 50 ml (or around one scoop) of the new formula brand, finish the feed with the brand currently used, less around 50ml. Do this for two feeds, then continue with your current brand formula for feeds for the rest day. |
Day 3 – 100 ml substitution for two feeds | Start the feed with 100 ml (or around two scoops) of the new formula brand, finish the feed with the brand currently used, less around 100ml. Do this for two feeds, then continue with your current brand formula for feeds for the rest day. |
Day 4 – 100 ml substitution for three feeds | Start the feed with 100 ml (or around two scoops) of the new formula brand, finish the feed with the brand currently used, less around 100ml. Do this for three feeds, then continue with your current brand formula for feeds for the rest day. |
Day 5 – 150 ml substitution for three feeds | Start the feed with 150 ml (or around three scoops) of the new formula brand, finish the feed with the brand currently used, less around 150ml. Do this for three feeds, then continue with your current brand formula for feeds for the rest day. |
Day 6 – 150 ml substitution for four feeds | Start the feed with 150 ml (or around three scoops) of the new formula brand, finish the feed with the brand currently used, less around 150ml. Do this for four feeds, then continue with your current brand formula for feeds for the rest day. |
Day 7 – use new formula for all four feeds | By Day 7 you can offer your baby the new brand of formula entirely. |
While transitioning you should take note of your babies bowel movements and urine output to ensure they are getting enough to drink. You can expect some change in their stools, either becoming softer or a bit firmer, but it should not be dry and solid, or a watery-like consistency.
They should have six (or more) wet nappies a day, which should be soaked and contain pale or colourless urine. If the urine is scant or yellow you should check the instructions on the tin again to ensure the formula and water ratio is correct.
If you have any concerns around their urine output or bowel motions, speak to your GP or MCH Nurse for advice.