So, you’ve decided to go the organic European baby formula route to nourish your baby…great! As you read the labels to decide which one is best, you’ll soon realize there are several different certifications that organic baby formula can carry. While this can become overwhelming and a bit confusing, we’re here to help. We understand how important it is to choose the right formula for your baby which is why we’re uncovering what all of these certifications mean and what you should be looking for when choosing a baby formula.
Let’s get started!
What is Organic Baby Formula?
Before we start decoding the different certifications that European organic baby formula can carry, let’s get a refresher course about what organic baby formula is.
Organic baby formula is made with ingredients that are sourced from farms that follow strict organic farming practices. That means no herbicides, synthetic pesticides, additives, or genetically modified organisms (GMOs). Basically, no stuff that’s bad for your baby.
Why Choose Organic Baby Formula?
Choosing organic baby formula means you are choosing a formula that reduces your baby’s exposure to pesticides and synthetic additives. Since organic baby formula does not have GMOs and sources ingredients from organic farming practices, parents can have peace of mind about the formula they are feeding their babies.
Organic baby formula is packed full of vitamins and minerals that provide nutrition and support baby’s growth and development.
The Importance Of Certifications on Organic Baby Formula
Throughout Europe, organic certifications ensure that baby formulas meet high quality and safety standards. This is important because these certifications guarantee that baby formulas don’t include any harmful substances, which is key for developing babies.
Since organic baby formulas contain high-quality ingredients, parents can feel confident that they are choosing formulas that will provide the nutritional needs of their baby and promote healthy growth. Choosing organic baby formula also supports farming practices that are aimed at protecting the environment and working to combat climate change.
Organic Certifications for European Baby Formula
Here are the organic certifications for European baby formula that you need be aware of as you shop:
EU Organic
The EU Organic certification is considered to be the gold standard for organic products, including formula, in Europe. To achieve this certification, products must meet these requirements:
- Contain at least 95% of agricultural ingredients that are grown organically (the remaining 5% must meet strict EU standards)
- Have only essential additives such as vitamins and minerals
- Contain no GMOs (genetically modified organisms)
- Only source animals who have been raised in humane conditions, with access to organic feed
If you see baby formula products with the EU organic logo, this means they have met these strict standards.
Demeter Certification
Products that have received the Demeter Certification follow biodynamic farming principles. It is a globally recognized organization that advocates biodynamic farming practices. It was founded in 1928 in Germany.
Demeter Certification follows biodynamic farming principles such as:
- Natural Fertilizers : Only natural pest control methods and fertilizers are used.
- Holistic Farm Management : Farms focus on soil fertility and are treated as self-sustaining ecosystems.
Products that carry the Demeter Certification have also utilized animals that are cared for in an environment that respects nature.
Soil Association Organic Certification
The Soil Association is another certification available for organic products. It is based in the UK and follows strict ingredient sourcing. All ingredients can not include GMOs or synthetic chemicals.
To obtain this certification, products also must follow sustainability practices that work towards supporting biodiversity and reducing carbon footprints. Regular audits are also done to ensure products comply with organic standards.
Bioland Certification
Bioland Certification is also known as “beyond organic”. Founded in 1971, it carries very high standards. These include:
- Certified products that contain 100% organic ingredients
- No GMOs
- Animal welfare
- Organic food production on 100% of the farm
- Only use of nitrogen fertilizers in small amounts
Bioland farms strive to produce high-quality and healthy food.
German Organic Seal
The German Organic Seal is used on products in conjunction with the EU organic logo. It follows all EU organic guidelines. German products can obtain this seal if they meet the standards of EU organic farming.
Popular Types of European Organic Baby Formula & Their Certifications
As you decide what type of European organic baby formula is right for your baby, consider this quick snapshot of four of the most popular brands:
HiPP
HiPP organic baby formula is under the EU organic certification. It undergoes more than 250 quality checks to ensure that it is safe and nutritious for your baby.
Holle
Holle offers a wide range of organic cow milk and goat milk formulas. Known for its Demeter Certification, the high commitment to biodynamic farming is one of the things that sets this product apart from the rest.
Kendamil
Kendamil products are under the Soil Association Organic Certification. Whole milk from grass-fed cows is used and palm oil is avoided in these formulas.
Jovie
This baby formula is EU-certified and is often used for babies with sensitive stomachs. Goat milk and cow milk-based formulas are available.
FAQ About Different Organic Certifications
How do I choose the right organic baby formula?
Understand your baby’s needs and any allergies or sensitivities. Research ingredients and look for certifications. You’ll want to check for EU Organic, Demeter, or Soil Association labels. Always check with your pediatrician about formula choices to ensure that the one you are giving is right for your baby.
What is different about European organic baby formula?
European standards for formula are much stricter than those in the United States. Formula and other products must meet strict guidelines to be labeled organic. They must also not include additives or GMOs.
Are all European baby formulas organic?
All European baby formulas are not organic. But, European baby formula brands are free of corn syrup, toxic chemicals, and GMOs. Some American baby formulas do include corn syrup and other additives.
When it comes to organic baby formulas, it’s important to read the certification label so that you understand the requirements that each product has met. This way, you can make an educated choice about the type of formula you’re going to give your little one to grow and develop.
