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Let’s be real — choosing the right infant formula can feel like a full-time job. You’re reading labels like it’s your side hustle, Googling every ingredient and wondering if your baby’s formula should be organic, grass-fed or palm oil–free (or all of the above). It’s a lot.
That’s where whole milk formula comes in. Unlike traditional baby formulas that use skim milk as a base, whole milk formulas keep the naturally occurring milk fat intact — a creamy, brain-loving bonus that brings them closer to breast milk in all the right ways.
If you’re wondering where to start, we’ve got you. At the top of our list is Bobbie Organic Whole Milk Infant Formula, with clean ingredients, USDA organic certification and a grass-fed milk base that checks all the boxes. Right behind it? Bobbie Whole Milk Infant Formula, a wallet-friendly pick that’s still big on quality (with no palm or palm olein oil, corn syrup or other fillers you didn’t ask for).
Whether you’re formula feeding from day one or supplementing along the way, we’re looking at the best whole milk formulas of 2025 to know about.
What Is Whole Milk Infant Formula?
Whole milk infant formula is made with whole cow’s milk, which means it retains its original milk fat. This natural fat includes milk fat globule membrane (MFGM) — a component that supports brain development, immune function and digestion in growing babies, and is also found in breast milk!
By comparison, most standard baby formulas are made with skim milk (also known as nonfat milk), where the milk fat is removed and replaced with exclusively plant-based oils like palm, palm olein, soy or coconut. While these oils provide necessary fat and energy, they may not be the preferred option for some parents.
For those who want to reduce exposure to plant-based oils, whole milk formula can be a gentler, more straightforward option, offering nutrition that’s a little closer to what nature intended.
Whole Milk Formula vs. Skim Milk Formula
When it comes to choosing the right infant formula, the type of milk used can make a real difference in how your baby digests and absorbs nutrients. That’s why more parents are taking a closer look at whole milk vs. skim milk formulas.
Let’s break down the key differences to help you figure out what’s best for your baby.
Base Milk Source
- Whole milk formula: Uses whole cow’s milk with milk fat intact as the base, with or without additional nonfat milk
- Nonfat milk formula: Made from skimmed milk as the base
Fat Content
- Whole milk formula: Includes natural fats (with MFGM), plus plant-based oils
- Skim milk formula: Fats exclusively come from added oils
Processing
- Whole milk formula: Less processed, often considered to be closer to breast milk
- Skim milk formula: More refined to strip and rebuild the fat profile
Taste & Texture
- Whole milk formula: Creamier texture and taste
- Skim milk formula: May have a thinner consistency and more neutral flavor
Benefits of Whole Milk Infant Formula
Still wondering why parents are making the switch? Here are a few science-backed benefits of whole milk–based formula:
Supports Brain Development
Natural milk fats include MFGM which has been shown to support cognitive development in infants. These fats are a key part of breast milk and play a role in building neural pathways.
Gentle on Digestion
Whole milk fats feature palmitic acid in the second position of the triglyceride, which is easier to absorb and less likely to create firm stools. Babies who experience firm stools on standard skim-based formulas may find comfort with whole milk options.
Fewer Additives
Because whole milk provides a complete fat profile, there’s less need to add plant-based oils.
Closer to Breast Milk
If you’re supplementing breastfeeding or combo feeding, a formula made with whole cow’s milk may feel like a more natural fit. Whole milk formulas can more closely mirror the fatty acid ratios found in human milk.
Creamier Taste and Texture
Babies can be picky — and some simply prefer the taste and feel of whole milk formulas. A creamier consistency may help with feeding satisfaction.
Best Whole Milk Formulas of 2025 (Ranked and Compared)
At Bobbie, we know that choosing the best baby formula isn’t just about what’s on the label — it’s about how it aligns with your values, your baby’s needs and your parenting goals. That’s why we reviewed ingredient quality, nutritional value, certifications and real parent feedback to bring you our top picks for whole milk formulas this year.
1. Bobbie Organic Whole Milk Infant Formula
Why we love it: This is our pride and joy — a USDA Organic, Clean Label Project–certified formula made without palm or palm olein oil, corn syrup or added sugar. We start with organic whole milk from grass-fed cows on pasture 365 days a year and keep it simple, clean and modeled after the composition of breast milk.
Great for: Parents looking for the gold standard in organic infant formula, backed by science and crafted with care.
2. Bobbie Whole Milk Infant Formula
Why we love it: All the goodness of our signature formula, at a more accessible price point. It’s not certified organic, but it still checks all the clean nutrition boxes — no palm, whole milk from grass-fed cows, Clean Label Project award winning, and packed with essential nutrients like DHA and iron.
Great for: Budget-conscious families who want clean, quality formula milk without compromise.
3. Bubs 365 Grass-Fed Formula
Why we love it: This baby formula from Australia uses grass-fed whole milk and skips palm oil. It’s a clean and gentle option with international flair.
Great for: Parents open to globally-sourced nutrition and sourcing standards beyond the U.S.
4. Bubs Essentials Formula
Why we love it: A step down in price and certification, but still made with whole milk and no palm oil. It’s a solid middle-ground option for families.
Great for: Those looking for value while still caring about ingredient quality.
5. ByHeart Whole Nutrition Formula
Why we love it: Modeled after breast milk, this baby formula features whole milk protein, organic lactose and a patented protein blend, featuring lactoferrin and alpha-lactalbumin whey. It’s got science-backed nutrition and a clean label approach.
Great for: Brand new babies, given its higher, 80:20 whey-to-casein protein ratio.
6. A2 Platinum Formula
Why we love it: This one stands out with its use of A2-only whole cow’s milk, which may be easier to digest for some little ones. It also includes prebiotics and DHA for brain and gut support.
Great for: Babies with mild sensitivities to cow milk formula — but not allergies.
7. Kendamil Goat Formula
Why we love it: Made with whole goat milk, which naturally contains prebiotics and is gentle on sensitive tummies. It’s also free from palm and palm olein oils and fish oil, with a creamy texture that parents love.
Great for: Babies who don’t do well on cow’s milk formulas or need an easier-to-digest alternative like goat milk formula.
How To Choose the Best Infant Formula
When evaluating different options, keep an eye out for these features:
- Whole Milk Base: For natural fat and closer to breast milk composition
- Organic Certification: USDA Organic is the gold standard
- No Palm or Palm Olein Oil: Easier on baby tummies and better for fat absorption
- No Alternative Sugars or Syrups: Lactose is ideal, as it’s the primary carb in breast milk
- Balanced Nutrients: Look for DHA, ARA and iron
- Transparent Labeling: You should feel good about every ingredient
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I give my baby whole cow’s milk instead of formula?
No. Plain cow’s milk doesn’t have enough iron, DHA or key nutrients for babies under 12 months, and can lead to malnutrition in infants. Whole milk formulas, on the other hand, are carefully fortified and modified to meet their needs.
Is whole milk formula better than skim milk formula?
It depends on your baby, but many parents find that whole milk formulas are gentler on digestion and more similar to breast milk — especially when palm and palm olein oil is avoided.
Is European formula better?
European formulas use whole milk more commonly, but many excellent U.S. formulas now offer comparable quality without the time or expense of importing — like Bobbie Organic Whole Milk Infant Formula.
How do I switch formulas?
It’s recommended to switch ‘cold turkey’ so that parents can assess for tolerance quickly. Watch for signs of discomfort, gas or constipation, keeping in mind that changes in stool color, texture or frequency or increased gas or reflux is common during the first week of a formula transition.
What if my baby has a milk allergy?
Babies with diagnosed milk protein allergies need hypoallergenic or amino acid–based formulas. Goat milk and whole milk formulas are not suitable substitutes.
Finding the Right Formula for Your Family
There’s no perfect formula — but there is a perfect fit for your baby, lifestyle and values. If you’re leaning toward a more natural, minimally processed option, whole milk formulas bring a lot to the table: natural fats, gentle digestion and nutrition that’s designed to be closer to breast milk.
Whether you go with Bobbie Organic Whole Milk Formula, try a goat milk formula or explore another feeding option, you’re doing your best — and your baby is lucky to have you!
If you’re ready to explore your options, check out our full lineup of Bobbie Infant Formulas to find the one that’s just right for your family.