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Aside from giving them a balanced diet, formula milk is one of the best ways to support your child’s rapid growth. Toddlerhood is a stage of considerable development not only in motor skills but also in cognitive and social skills. Providing them with essential nutrients helps their little body function optimally to support holistic growth.
When it comes to the health of your little one, it’s only natural to want the best—and we are here to guide you with that! Below are our top picks for formula milk for 2-year-olds. We also included what to look for when buying formula milk for your toddler in our buying guide fact-checked by Dr. Joey Cuayo-Estanislao.
Dr. Joanna Pamela Cuayo-Estanislao is a pediatrician and child health specialist based in Metro Manila. Doc Joey is passionate about health education and empowering families to become informed advocates of their children's health and wellness. She uses social media to educate and raise awareness about important issues and topics in the field of pediatrics and child care.
Our recommendation articles are carefully researched and crafted by the mybest Philippines team of writers and editors. To stay true to our company’s mission and vision to help users’ selection process easier, we also collaborate with experts from various fields to ensure that our content stays factual and useful.
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.
Table of Contents
Here are some key points to consider:
For more detailed information, read through our buying guide below.
First things first, know your formula options. Formula milk is not always cow milk-based—there are also soy-based and specialized types. To help you choose, we've listed down what you need to know about these common types.
Cow milk-based formulas might be the first thing that comes into mind when you think about formula milk. This is because they're widely available in the market and account for about 80% of formula milk.
This type of formula combines cow's milk, vegetable oils, vitamins, and minerals to supply your toddler with nutrients. These ingredients are heated to make the protein and lactose (milk sugar) more digestible.
Formulated with soy protein, vegetable oils, corn syrup, and other nutrients, soy-based formulas are the best choice for toddlers with lactose intolerance. These may also be optimal if you intend to have your kid follow a vegetarian diet.
Keep in mind that most soy products are genetically modified. If you are looking for a non-GMO option, choose formula milk with an organic label. However, since this type is not common, it is more expensive than cow milk-based formulas.
Another option if your child is allergic to cow milk-based formula is hydrolyzed whey milk. This type undergoes additional processes to break down the milk proteins and make them easier to digest.
Since the protein pieces are so small, they won’t trigger an allergy in your child. Note that hydrolyzed milk is best incorporated into your toddler’s diet by consulting your doctor first.
If your toddler has a certain medical need, your pediatrician might recommend a specialized formula. This varies based on the medical concerns that it aims to address. For instance, formulas thickened with rice starch are recommended for toddlers with reflux.
Formulas thickened with rice starch may be recommended for babies with reflux, but should only be given if recommended by a pediatrician or pediatric gastroenterologist since it may not be effective for all babies with reflux.
Primarily, caregivers opt for formula milk to provide nutrients that a child may not get from breast milk. Thus, it is important to look for a product that contains essential nutrients that will support your toddler’s development.
Among the nutrients to look for are DHA and ARA, which are omega fatty acids that help in your child’s brain and nerve development and promote good eyesight. Do check if the formula contains probiotics, too, as these can improve gut health.
When using a non-milk-based formula, opt for those that contain iron and calcium. These ingredients are added to the formula to supply vitamins and minerals that lactose-free milk lacks. An iron-fortified formula also prevents the risk of iron deficiency, which is common in formula-fed children.
Don’t forget to look at the label to ensure that there are no surprise ingredients that might be harmful to your child. Some formula milks contain sweeteners or added preservatives to lengthen the shelf life or make the product more palatable. Toddler formula milk may contain double the sugar found in cow’s milk.
Also, some products may contain flavorings. Too much of these can be counterproductive since they increase the risk of different health concerns. Additionally, these may encourage your child to develop a preference for sweet foods at an early age.
Formula milk comes in various forms. While there is no form superior to others, it helps to consider your toddler’s needs and preferences to ensure optimal nutrition. Below is a quick rundown of the common milk forms to guide you.
Powdered formulas are the most common type you would see in the market. They are also the most affordable option and have a long shelf life. However, they are not always efficient since they take time to prepare. Also, with powered formulas, you need to ensure that you are putting the right amount based on the instructions for optimal absorption.
If you find measuring and mixing powdered formulas time-consuming, you might want to consider liquid concentrates. All you have to do is dilute the concentrate with equal parts of water. While this type offers convenience, it comes at a more expensive price than powdered formula. Additionally, it has to be refrigerated to extend its shelf life.
With ready-to-use formula, you don’t have to worry about measuring and mixing your toddler’s milk—you can just pour it straight into the bottle or glass. Just take note that this form is the most expensive. It also has the shortest shelf life and needs to be consumed quickly.
Many formula milks are now readily available in stores or online. It’s also easier to just look up the most popular formula milk. While this provides convenience, note that there is no perfect formula since every child is unique. Sought-after brands may not always be the best option for your little one.
Avoid any complications and provide the best nutrition for your toddler by consulting their pediatrician before purchasing formula milk. After all, they know your child’s medical history more than anyone and can recommend formula milk that is more suitable to your toddler’s needs.
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Price | Key features | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Nestle NAN® OptiPro® Three Milk Supplement|1-3 Years Old | From ₱1,395 High Mid | All-Around Aid to Your Child’s Growth and Development | ||
2 | Abbott PediaSure 1 to 3 Vanilla | From ₱1,273 Mid | With Unique Fat Blends and Triple Protein Complex to Keep Your Toddler Nourished | ||
3 | Nestle Nido® Junior Powdered Milk Drink|1-3 Years Old | From ₱900 Low Mid | Loaded With Probiotics to Strengthen Respiratory Defenses | ||
4 | Wyeth Bonakid® Stage 3 Powdered Milk Drink|1 to 3 Years Old | From ₱680 Low Mid | Budget-Friendly Milk Supplement That Supports the Nutritional Needs of Your Child | ||
5 | Abbott Isomil Two|1-3 Years Old | From ₱1,062 Mid | Lactose-Free Formula Milk With 10 Key Nutrients | ||
6 | Wyeth S-26 Promil Gold® Three Milk Supplement|1-3 Years Old | From ₱1,952.25 High Mid | Sustain Your Toddler’s Needs With DHA, ARA, and Calcium | ||
7 | Nestle Nestogen 3 Milk Supplement|1-3 Years Old | From ₱660 Low | Easy on the Gut and Promotes Healthy Bowel Movement | ||
8 | Mead Johnson Enfagrow A+ Three Lactose Free | From ₱2,844 High | Has a Non-GMO Formula for Children Who Are Lactose Intolerant | ||
9 | HiPP Organic Milk Supplement|1-3 Years | From ₱1,345 Mid | Organic Milk Formula That Is Gentle on the Gut | ||
10 | Mead Johnson Lactum Chocolate Milk Supplement Powder|1-3 Years Old | From ₱866 Low Mid | Delicious Formula Milk From a Trusted Local Brand |
When formula milk for toddlers is concerned, you can never go wrong with NAN® OptiPro® Three. It is a specialized growing-up milk that combines high-quality ingredients essential to your child's physical and mental development. With two servings a day, you can provide your little one with at least half of the recommended dietary intake of calcium, zinc, iron, and iodine.
In addition to the nutrients mentioned, this milk supplement is also loaded with vitamins A, B1, B2, B6, B12, C, D, E, and K. The OptiPro technology ensures an optimized blend of proteins so your child can enjoy all these nutrients per serving. On top of that, it contains a probiotic called Bifidus B for a healthy gut. Parents also noted how the milk isn't too sweet yet is still flavorful for their toddlers.
If you’re having difficulty feeding your child, this might be your best bet in supplying them with optimal nutrition. With a glass of PediaSure 1 to 3 Vanilla, you can rest well knowing that your toddler gets 100% of the daily Recommended Energy and Nutrient Intakes (RENI) that their body needs.
This milk supplement has different macronutrients and micronutrients such as Triple Protein Complex, Dual Carbohydrate Blend, and Unique Fat Blend and MCTs—all of which contribute to a stronger body and better development. Moreover, it is easy on your child’s tummy since it is gluten- and lactose-free and doesn’t have GMOs.
Nido has everything you need in formula milk to support your toddler’s growth; hence, it remains a trusted brand among Filipino parents. And it does even more to justify that! For instance, this formula is fortified with Lactobacillus rhamnosus, a probiotic that strengthens your toddler’s respiratory defenses against various diseases.
While protecting your child and promoting overall health, this milk formula also has a yummy flavor that they will enjoy drinking. And of course, Nido Junior is a great source of calcium, so your little one can develop and maintain healthy bones and teeth. Additionally, its DHA content will contribute to developing their mental functions and visual acuity.
Providing the best nutrition for your toddler need not be expensive—and that's what Bonakid Stage 3 Powdered Milk Drink delivers! At an affordable price, you get FDA-approved cow-based milk with essential nutrients like DHA and AHA, as well as iron and calcium, to aid in your child's growth and development.
While the product is not suitable for lactose intolerant toddlers, rest assured that it is still gentle, all thanks to citric acid, which functions as an acid regulator and makes the milk more digestible. And with its rich formulation, some parents noticed a significant weight gain in their children. If you hope to address weight concerns, give this formula milk a try!
When it comes to choosing soy-based formula milk, you can count on Isomil Two to do the job. This product is the best choice if your toddler is sensitive or intolerant to lactose. It contains soy protein, DHA, and calcium that aid in your child’s rapid growth and development from 1 to 3 years old.
Besides being GMO-free and gentle on the tummy, Isomil is formulated with the EyeQ Plus nutrition system—a combination of 10 key nutrients. These include lutein and vitamins A and D3, which play a role in healthy eyes. You can also count on its gut-friendly formula to maintain a healthy digestive system.
Once your child reaches the age of 1, their needs will differ from before. For instance, they will be moving a lot and need essential nutrients to support their bone development. S-26 Promil Gold® Three has high calcium content to provide that. Not only does this formula strengthen the bones, but it also contains folic acid to strengthen the immune system.
Besides that, S-26 Promil Gold® Three has DHA and ARA, which are essential building blocks for your growing child’s brain and eye development. Combined with choline, you can count on this formula to support the overall mental functions of your toddler. Parents also like this product because it dissolves easily, unlike other powder formulas.
Not all types of formula milk are created equal. Some may be too harsh on your child's gut that incorporating them into their diet can be counterproductive. Fret not, as Nestogen 3 is not like the others! This milk supplement is formulated with L. comfortis, a probiotic commonly found in the tummy of healthy children.
Nestogen 3 is high in sodium ascorbate, taurine, and pantothenate, which boost the immune system. It is also loaded with proteins, iron, folic acid, and calcium that are beneficial for your child's overall development. And based on anecdotal reports, toddlers gained weight during the initial months of drinking this formula.
Lactose intolerance may be a hassle not only for toddlers who have it but also for their caregivers. But don't worry, Enfagrow A+'s got your back! Specifically formulated for children who are lactose intolerant, this milk supplement does not have GMOs and other artificial additives.
The protein in Enfagrow A+ is sourced from organic soybeans. Plus, it contains DHA and ARA, which are fatty acids found in breast milk. These contribute to healthy mental function for your child. However, since this formula is specialized, it may be hard to find in local stores. So be sure to grab it while it's still available!
If you’re looking for sustainable products that are nature-friendly and environmentally responsible, you should check out HiPP Organic. They have a product specifically for kids 1-3 years old. This milk supplement, which is FDA-approved and certified by the Organic Certification Center of the Philippines, is made from all-natural, organic raw ingredients.
This product stands out for its hypoallergenic formulation, making it an excellent option for toddlers who have allergies. It is also free from GMOs, gluten, artificial flavors or colors, and soy protein. Aside from that, it is loaded with vitamins and other important nutrients needed by your growing child.
Lactum has been a staple when it comes to formula milk for children. It's no wonder why—it's affordable and comes with essential nutrients for your little one! And since it's a local brand, you can expect it to know what's best for your child. It's formulated to fulfill the daily meal recommendation prescribed by the Department of Health.
This formula milk is distinct from the others because of its chocolate flavor that your toddler will surely enjoy drinking. With its budget-friendly price, you will also enjoy giving this to your little one—more so since the formula dissolves easily. And because it's made from cow's milk, it's an excellent alternative to whole cream milk!
Below are some of the most asked questions on the web answered by the mybest team.
By the age of 1 year old, your child can already digest solid food. With this in mind, they should be getting nutrients from all food groups—veggies, fruits, proteins, grains, and dairy. If they are getting enough nutrients from a balanced diet, formula milk may not be necessary. As always, make sure to consult your healthcare provider first before giving your toddler formula milk.
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that toddlers ages 1-2 years old drink 2-3 cups (16-24 oz.) of milk per day. This is sufficient enough for them to get essential nutrients like calcium, vitamin D, and fat.
Yes, milk formula, just like other consumables, can go bad. Make sure to read the instructions on the product to see how long it can be stored. Usually, prepared formula milk is considered safe for up to 2 hours at room temperature. Leaving it for a more extended period of time increases the risk of contamination.
As your little one achieves more developmental milestones during toddlerhood, it helps to equip them with the right tools to further hone their cognitive, social, and motor skills. But if you don't know where to start, our recommended items below should provide you with an idea of what to look for.
Author: J Ausa
Editor: Aprille Jarcia
Our buying guide was carefully researched and crafted by the mybest team of writers and editors, in collaboration with the expert featured in this article. We used the buying guide as a basis for choosing and ranking the product recommendations, and we looked at reviews and ratings from different E-commerce sites like Lazada, Shopee, and more.
For expert-reviewed articles, we ask experts to check and review our buying guide to make sure there aren't any false, misleading, or outdated information. Our experts do not participate in choosing the recommendations, and they do not endorse any of the products we mention.
No. 1: Nestle|NAN® OptiPro® Three Milk Supplement|1-3 Years Old
No. 2: Abbott|PediaSure 1 to 3 Vanilla
No. 3: Nestle|Nido® Junior Powdered Milk Drink|1-3 Years Old
No. 4: Wyeth|Bonakid® Stage 3 Powdered Milk Drink|1 to 3 Years Old
No. 5: Abbott|Isomil Two|1-3 Years Old
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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