What are the differences between milk-based and soy-based infant formulas?
The protein in milk-based formulas comes from cow’s milk. Milk–based formulas also contain lactose. Soy-based formulas are milk and lactose free; the protein in these formulas comes from soybeans. Soy-based formula is often used as a substitute for an infant who cannot tolerate cow’s milk-based formula. Parents who seek a vegetarian-based diet for their healthy infant may want to discuss the use of soy-based formula with their pediatrician. Visit our ‘Formula Finder’ under the Tools section to learn more about formula basics.