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Goat Milk vs Cow Milk Formula: What Parents Should Know
Short answer: Goat milk formula and cow milk formula are both complete nutrition for healthy babies. In the EU, both must meet the same compositional rules, so the vitamins, minerals and protein levels are very similar. The real differences are the protein source, the taste and personal preference. Goat milk formula is not suitable for babies with a cow's milk protein allergy.
Goat vs cow milk formula at a glance
| Goat milk formula | Cow milk formula | |
|---|---|---|
| Protein source | Goat milk protein (whole goat milk and/or goat whey) | Cow milk protein (whole or skimmed milk and/or whey) |
| Regulated in the EU | Yes, permitted since 2014 | Yes |
| Nutritional standards | Same EU rules for protein, vitamins and minerals | Same EU rules |
| Beta-casein type | Naturally A2-type | Usually a mix of A1 and A2 (A2 cow formulas also exist) |
| Suitable for cow's milk protein allergy? | No | No (special hydrolysed formulas are used instead) |
| Taste | Mild, slightly different from cow | Familiar dairy taste |
| Price | Usually higher | Usually lower |
Is goat milk formula safe?
Yes. In 2012 the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) concluded that goat milk protein can be a suitable protein source for infant and follow-on formula, as long as the final product meets EU compositional criteria. Goat milk formulas have been permitted in the EU since 2014 and follow the same nutritional rules as cow milk formulas.
Is goat milk formula easier to digest?
You will often read that goat milk forms softer curds or is "gentler". Some parents do find their baby settles better on goat milk formula, and many choose it for that reason. However, EFSA found no evidence of a difference in digestibility between formulas made from goat and cow milk protein. If your baby has ongoing tummy trouble, reflux or colic, speak to your pediatrician before switching.
What about A2?
Milk contains a protein called beta-casein, which comes in different forms called A1 and A2. Goat milk's beta-casein is naturally similar to the A2 type. Most standard cow milk contains a mix of A1 and A2, but A2 cow milk formulas are also available, such as Holle Organic A2 Cow. If A2 is your main reason for choosing goat, an A2 cow formula is another option.
Goat milk formula and cow's milk allergy
Goat milk protein is very similar to cow milk protein, and most babies who react to cow's milk protein also react to goat's milk protein. That is why goat milk formula is not recommended for babies with a diagnosed or suspected cow's milk protein allergy. These babies usually need a specialist formula (extensively hydrolysed or amino acid-based) recommended by their doctor. Note that lactose intolerance is different from a milk protein allergy, and goat milk formulas also contain lactose.
Why parents choose goat milk formula
- Preference for goat milk: some families simply prefer it, or already use goat dairy at home.
- Taste: some babies prefer its milder taste.
- A2-type protein: without needing a special A2 cow formula.
- Clean ingredient lists: several goat formulas are made with whole goat milk and without palm oil. For example, Kendamil Goat is made in the UK with whole goat milk, no palm oil or fish oil, and DHA from algae.
Why parents choose cow milk formula
- The widest choice: more brands, stages and specialist options (HA, comfort, anti-reflux).
- Lower price per tin.
- Proven track record: cow milk formula has been used for many decades and is what most babies are fed.
Goat milk formulas we stock
- Kendamil Goat – made in the UK, whole goat milk
- Holle Goat – organic and Demeter, from the Swiss brand Holle
- HiPP Goat – organic, German and Dutch versions
- Jovie Goat – organic goat milk formula
- Kabrita, Nannycare and Pure Goat
See them all in our goat milk formula collection.
Frequently asked questions
Is goat milk formula better than cow milk formula?
Not for every baby. Both meet the same EU nutritional standards. Goat milk formula is a good choice for families who prefer it, but there is no strong evidence that it is healthier or easier to digest than cow milk formula.
Can I switch from cow to goat milk formula?
Most healthy babies can switch between formulas of the same stage. Many parents switch gradually over several days. Talk to your pediatrician first if your baby has any symptoms or a medical condition.
Is goat milk formula OK for a baby with cow's milk allergy?
No. Goat milk protein is too similar to cow milk protein. Your doctor will recommend a suitable specialist formula.
Is goat milk formula lactose-free?
No. Goat milk formulas contain lactose, just like cow milk formulas.
Can I give my baby plain goat milk?
No. Plain goat milk (like plain cow milk) is not suitable as a main drink for babies under 12 months. Only use goat milk infant formula made for babies.
This article is for general information only and is not medical advice. Breastfeeding is recommended where possible. Always talk to your pediatrician before starting or changing infant formula, especially if your baby was born early, has a medical condition or has a suspected allergy.