AAP warns toddler formulas are ‘misleading’

Mama, keep a watchful eye when you head to the formula aisle if you’re buying products marketed as toddler formulas, because they are not the same as traditional formulas, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) warns, and should not be marketed as such.

The AAP will release a report on the topic, titled “Older Infant‒Young Child ‘Formulas,’” in the November issue of their journal, Pediatrics.

Toddler formula vs. regular formula

Some products for babies over 6 months and toddlers 12 months and up marketed as toddler formulas aren’t nutritionally complete like formula—and they’re not regulated by the federal government like regular formula, AAP says.

You may see claims on toddler formulas like “improved brain development” or “improved immune function”—but those should send up a red flag to read labels carefully, the AAP states. 

That’s because some products are cross-promoted with infant formula but do not have the nutritional value of those formulas. 

“These drinks should not replace a balanced diet and are inferior to standard infant formula in children less than 12 months of age and offer no benefit over much less expensive cow’s milk in most children older than age 12 months,” George J. Fuchs, III, MD, a member of the AAP’s Committee on Nutrition, which produced the clinical report, said.

“As a result, composition of these drinks is unregulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and their promotion is typically characterized by misleading claims,” Fuchs said.

The Infant Formula Act requires infant formulas to meet nutritional standards as a sole source of food for infants through the first 12 months. But unlike standard formulas, the FDA doesn’t have a category for products aimed at older children, so there aren’t requirements governing those.

Spotting toddler formulas

Toddler formulas may be marketed as “follow-on formulas” or “weaning formulas” and may have similar packaging to infant formula; some brands make both formula and other nutritional drinks such as “toddler milks” for little ones. 

But AAP states that most toddlers don’t need these formulas. While they can safely be used as part of a varied diet for children, they “do not provide a nutritional advantage in most children over a well-balanced diet that includes human milk [breast milk] or cow milk,” the organization says. Instead, ask your pediatrician about your child’s nutrient needs. 

“We are all familiar with picky eaters. And there may be reasons why some families avoid cow’s milk and dairy products,” Dr. Fuchs said. “That’s why it’s important to ask your pediatrician to evaluate if children are getting all the nutrients they need. Together, you can discuss a plan to address any potential deficiencies.” 

Some toddler formulas are sold alongside infant formulas on store shelves, which can make it confusing for the consumer. Not sure what your little one is getting, or which products may be questionable? Your pediatrician can weigh in to ensure your toddler is meeting their nutritional goals and growth and height requirements for their age—and help you come up with a plan, if needed.