Is Vegan Formula Available In The Usa?

As a Vegan mama, I researched like crazy during my pregnancy to try and find a plant-based formula for my baby, just in case breastfeeding didn’t work out.

And what did I find out…the sad truth?

Unfortunately, there are NO Vegan formulas available in the United States. But fear, not Vegan mamas, there are, however, dairy-free formulas. 

The closest thing to a Vegan formula for infants is the Soy formula. They may not be 100% Vegan, but hey, at least we have an option so that we don’t turn to dairy.

Initially, Soy formula was created for babies that cannot tolerate cow’s milk (because they’re not baby cows, of course).

So, thanks to that realization we at least have Soy formula to turn to, if breastfeeding does not work out.

So why doesn’t the US offer any 100% Plant-based formulas?

There are some federal regulations, in the US, that baby formulas must abide by. In order for the formula to be sold, companies are required, by law, to add Vitamin D3.

What’s Vitamin D3?

Vitamin D3, also called Cholecalciferol, is made by the ultraviolet irradiation of a substance derived from sheep’s wool.

Hence, why Dairy-free formulas cannot be classified as Vegan. However, I know that this may cause a problem for some Vegan parents because it’s an ingredient derived from an animal. This, however, is where your own definition of Veganism comes to play.

To me, Veganism means reducing the amount of harm to animals by minimizing the use of animal products, and since there are no other alternatives to dairy formula, the next best thing is Soy formula. 

The way I see it, as Vegan parents, we are still reducing harm to cows, and by purchasing dairy-free formulas we are letting companies know that there is a demand for dairy-free formulas.

So, parents, I know it’s a hard decision to make because I had to make this decision as well; but at the end of the day, Soy formula is better than having a baby drink dairy.

If it helps, go the organic route, that way baby isn’t stuffed with additives, such as high fructose corn syrup either.

However, if you’re able and willing to breastfeed then by all means, but if not, here’s a list of my top 3 soy formulas that I recommend:

1. Enfamil Prosobee
2. Babys Only, Protein Pea Plant-Based Dairy Free Gluten Free Organic

There is currently only one vegan baby formula on the market. Premiriz is 100% tested and suitable for newborn vegan formulas.

Widely available in Europe, usually by online order.  A number of parents in the United States and Canada have had it shipped to them.

While is more expensive than store-bought cow's milk-based formula. It is currently the only organic, rice-based, lactose-free, and vegan formula on the market that is suitable for 0-6 months of age.

The company has a wide range of formulas available for every stage, right up to toddlers. Get it here -> Vegan Baby Formula

We do not recommend homemade baby formulas. They are simply not safe. Find out more details about why they’re not safe HERE.

You can find the link to more dairy-free formulas HERE.