Goat Milk Formula

Updated a month ago

What is goat milk formula?

Goat milk formula is an alternative to cow milk formula, made from goat’s milk that has been modified to closely match the nutritional profile of breast milk. Goat’s milk is naturally closer to breast milk than cow’s milk — it contains smaller fat droplets, softer curds and higher levels of medium chain fatty acids, which makes it easier for many babies to digest.

Goat milk formula needs less processing than cow milk formula to become a nutritious infant formula. This results in a cleaner ingredient list with fewer additives.

How does goat milk formula differ from cow milk formula?

• Protein structure — goat’s milk contains lower levels of alpha S1 casein, the protein most associated with cow milk sensitivities. The softer curds are gentler on tiny tummies.
• Fat composition — goat’s milk contains twice as many medium chain fatty acids as cow’s milk, which are easier to absorb and support healthy brain development.
• Natural oligosaccharides — goat’s milk contains natural oligosaccharides at 10 times the amount found in cow’s milk, which support gut health and immunity.
• Lactose — goat milk formula still contains lactose, though typically in smaller amounts than cow milk formula. It is not suitable for babies with a diagnosed lactose intolerance.

How do stages work?

Formula is divided into stages based on your baby’s age, reflecting how their nutritional needs change as they grow:

• Stage PRE (0–6 months) — designed for newborns, with lactose as the only carbohydrate. Closest to breast milk.
• Stage 1 (0–6 months) — suitable from birth, either to supplement breastfeeding or as a sole source of nutrition.
• Stage 2 (6–10/12 months) — follow-on formula for babies starting solid foods.
• Stage 3 (10/12+ months) — growing-up milk for toddlers, designed to complement a varied diet.
• Stage 4 (12+ months) — available in select brands for older toddlers.

Which goat milk formula brands do we carry?

Nannycare

The only specialist goat milk brand at My Organic Formula. Nannycare is made from full-cream goat’s milk sourced from a co-operative of 71 New Zealand farms, manufactured in a purpose-built facility in the UK. The milk undergoes only minimal processing, resulting in a formula that is free from palm oil, starch, maltodextrin and corn syrup. Nannycare is Halal certified. Note: Nannycare is produced in accordance with organic principles but does not carry an EU organic certification, as EU organic regulations require animals to be kept outdoors — and goats, unlike cows, prefer the option of going indoors depending on the weather.

HiPP Goat

HiPP goat milk formula is produced to the same strict EU organic standards as HiPP’s cow milk range, with the added benefits of goat’s milk protein and fat structure. Available in Stage 1 and Stage 2, it is a good option for parents already familiar with the HiPP brand who want to try a goat milk alternative.

Holle Goat

Holle goat milk formula is made with Demeter-certified goat’s milk from biodynamic farms — the same high standard as Holle’s cow milk range. Available from Stage PRE through to Stage 4, it is one of the most complete goat milk ranges available. Free from artificial additives and produced with minimal processing.

Kendamil Goat

Kendamil goat milk formula is made with whole goat’s milk, reducing the need for additional vegetable oils. Like Kendamil’s cow milk range, the DHA is sourced from algae rather than fish oil, making it suitable for vegetarians. Available in Stage 1, 2 and 3.

Which goat milk formula is right for my baby?

• Specialist goat milk brand — Nannycare is the only brand dedicated exclusively to goat milk formula, with the most minimal processing of the four brands
• Biodynamic farming — Holle meets the Demeter standard and offers the widest stage range (PRE through Stage 4)
• Vegetarian preference — Kendamil uses algae-based DHA instead of fish oil
• Familiar brand — HiPP goat is a good option for parents already using HiPP cow milk formula
• Not sure? — Take our Formula Finder Quiz for a personalised recommendation in under a minute