Learn how whole milk infant formula and skim milk-based formulas compare, how both are designed to meet FDA nutrition and safety standards, and what parents should consider when deciding on a feeding option.
| Aug. 31, 2026 | 5 MINUTE READ |
Choosing an infant formula is an important decision. With so many options available, it’s natural for parents to have questions. One difference parents may notice is whether a formula is made with skim milk, whole milk, or both. But regardless of the type of milk included, all formulas are designed to provide complete nutrition for growth and development during your baby’s first year and must meet the FDA's nutritional requirements for infant formula.
Understanding how these formulas compare can help parents have informed conversations with pediatricians and ultimately choose the option that best fits their family’s needs.
"Parents have more infant formula choices than ever, and it’s natural to have questions about how those options differ," says Aundrea Parker, MS, RD, an Abbott nutrition scientist and infant nutrition expert. “Whole milk infant formula is not the same as regular cow’s milk. Like all infant formulas, it is specially formulated with all of the essential nutrients babies need during their first year of life.”
The primary difference is that whole milk infant formulas derive a part of their fat content from milkfat, while skim milk-based infant formulas do not. Regardless of which type of milk is used, both require the addition of oils to supply essential fats, such as linoleic fatty acids. In general, formulas made with whole milk can use less added oils because more of the fat content comes from the milk itself.
Neither option is inherently better. Skim milk-based formulas have long provided a nutritionally complete option for families and remain available in both powdered and ready-to-feed formats. Infant formulas made with whole milk provide an additional choice for parents who prefer an ingredient that provides naturally occurring milk fat.
However, Aundrea Parker notes that the milk source is only one part of the formulation. "What matters most is the entire composition of the product —the protein, carbs, fats, vitamins, minerals, and other ingredients—all working together to support a baby's growth and development.”
Today’s parents expect more from infant formula. They want products that deliver the nutrition their babies need and simplify the demands of modern family life. Interest in infant formula with whole milk has increased, and many parents also appreciate the ease and inherent reassurance of a commercially sterile liquid formula, especially for overnight feedings or when away from home. Together, these preferences highlight an opportunity for innovation that removes the need for parents to compromise between the ingredients they want for their baby and the convenience they need.
Similac® 360 Total Care® Made With Whole Milk was developed to offer parents more of what they’re looking for in an infant formula: choice, convenience, and commercial sterility.
Is whole milk infant formula healthier?
Whole milk infant formula is one of several nutritionally complete infant formula options available. Both whole milk and skim milk-based infant formula must meet the same FDA standards. The use of whole milk alone does not make a formula nutritionally superior.
Is whole milk infant formula easier to digest?
Every baby is unique, and feeding experiences can vary. There is no single formula that is best for every baby. If your baby experiences ongoing feeding difficulties, excessive fussiness, or other concerning symptoms, talk with your baby’s pediatrician. They can help determine whether a different approach or specialized formula may be appropriate.
Is whole milk infant formula the same as giving my baby whole cow’s milk?
No. Like all infant formula, whole milk infant formula is not the same as regular whole cow’s milk and is specifically formulated with an appropriate balance of nutrients for babies during their first year of life. Regular cow’s milk does not provide the right balance of nutrients for infants younger than 12 months and is not recommended as a replacement for infant formula during the first year.
Choosing an infant formula is a personal decision, and there is no one-size-fits-all answer. Families may consider a variety of factors when selecting a formula, including ingredient preferences, feeding goals, availability, convenience and guidance from their pediatrician.
Whether you choose a whole milk infant formula or a skim milk-based formula, you can feel confident knowing that infant formulas sold in the United States must meet rigorous nutritional and safety standards established by the FDA.
For parents interested in whole milk infant formula, today’s options provide another way to nourish their baby with carefully selected ingredients. Similac 360 Total Care Made With Whole Milk is thoughtfully formulated with a blend of high-quality whole milk, skim milk, and breast milk-inspired ingredients, including an exclusive blend of HMOs, to provide complete nutrition for babies during their first year.
Regardless of whether a formula begins with skim milk or a whole milk blend, the goal is the same: to provide complete nutrition that supports growth and development throughout infancy.
*Not derived from human milk.
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