Facts about formula

If you’re thinking of introducing formula to your baby, you might be wondering how to choose the right one and how to prepare it safely. With so many options and lots of marketing, it can feel confusing. 

Here are some key points to help you make the best choice for you and your baby.

• All infant formulas sold in Australia meet strict national standards.
• There’s no evidence that one brand or type is better than another—choose what fits your budget.
• For babies under 6 months, use a ‘starter’ or ‘first’ formula.
• Between 6 and 12 months, you can keep using starter formula or switch to a ‘follow-on’ formula.
• After 12 months, your baby doesn’t need formula.
• A formula with lower protein may help reduce the risk of your baby becoming overweight.
• Claims about formulas being better for development or reducing colic, reflux, or allergies aren’t strongly supported by evidence.
• If you’re unsure, ask your child health nurse, pharmacist, or healthcare provider for advice.

• Always follow the instructions on the formula tin—directions can vary between brands.
• Clean and sterilise all feeding equipment using a steriliser or boiling water.
• Powdered formula isn’t sterile and can occasionally contain bacteria, so be careful when preparing it.
• If you're in a situation where you can't boil water, or where there is a ‘do not drink water’ notice, take extra care when preparing bottles. 

• The amount of formula your baby needs depends on their age, size, and what else they’re eating.
• Formula tins provide guidelines, but feed your baby according to their needs.
• Bottle feeding can sometimes lead to overfeeding, as babies may take in more milk more quickly. Using paced bottle-feeding can help.
• Don’t mix expressed breastmilk and formula in the same bottle. If your baby has both, offer breastmilk first, then formula if needed.

Absolutely. Combining breast and formula feeding is called ‘mixed feeding’. You can continue breastfeeding for as long as you and your baby want.

Here are some helpful links for more information. These articles explain how to safely sterilise equipment, prepare formula, and reduce any risks to your baby:

• How to prepare formula for bottle-feeding at home (World Health Organization)
• Infant formula: making, storing and transporting it (Raising Children) 
   

© Australian Breastfeeding Association June 2025