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If you’ve done some homework and explored baby formulas by leading brands, you surely must have come across names such as Lebenswert vs Hipp a few times. Here, we’ve put together a detailed Lebenswert vs. Hipp comparison to help you make an informed decision and pick the best infant formula for your baby.
Both the infant formulas are currently not being sold in the U.S. and are available for purchase online through European distributors. As new moms, we fed our babies Lebenswert and Hipp baby formulas to test the products and make it convenient for you to pick the best one for your infant.
Lebenswert and Hipp formulas are manufactured in Europe and contain superior-quality ingredients. Lebenswert is actually a product by Holle.
Hipp is another popular baby food brand run by the Hipp family for over 100 years. Both brands stand up for sustainable values and ecological agriculture. Moreover, both baby formulas are organic; however, Lebenswert formula is biodynamic.
Hipp contains essential probiotics and special features to address infancy issues such as constipation, indigestion, bloating gastrointestinal reflux, and gas.
These are just the basic difference and there’s a lot more you need to know about both product. Read further to check the in-depth Lebenswert vs Hipp comparison.
Bottom Line Up Front Summary: While we LOVE both of these brands as mainstream alternatives, we prefer the cleaner ingredient profile and true biodynamic processing found in Lebenswert here. NOTE: The lowest prices I’ve found online are via MyOrganicCompany here (use code THEBABYSWAG to take 10% off).
It can be hard to find a good supplier for Lebenswert online, but we've found a great one with TheMilkyBox (use code TBS10 for 10% off). They are rarely out of stock, ship promptly, and typically have very competitive pricing.
Contents
Ingredients you should avoid in baby formula
Make sure you check the ingredients list before picking a baby formula. The following ingredients should be missing from the list:
Synthetic ARA and DHA
While ARA and DHA are naturally found in breast milk, they’re added to infant formula by extracting fungus and algae using hexane which is a neurotoxic chemical compound and harmful for your baby.
Refined sugars
Make sure the baby formula does not contain processed refine sugars such as maltodextrin, sugar syrup, corn syrup, or brown rice syrup. Many manufacturers use refined sugars as they’re cheaper than lactose. However, refined sugars can cause rapid weight gain and lead to obesity in infants.
Synthetic preservatives
Beta carotene and ascorbic palmitate are the common synthetic preservatives used in baby formulas.
Other synthetic nutrients
Several other neurotoxic nutrients such as lycopene, lutein, nucleotides, l-methionine, 1-carnitine, and taurine are added to baby formulas. While you may not find them in European baby formulas, some U.S. baby formulas tested for the presence of these synthetic nutrients failed the test.
Other ingredients that can cause issues such as constipation, gas, bloating, etc., are Soy and Palm Oil.
Lebenswert Stage 1 Organic Formula
Lebenswert baby formula is available in different stages for babies belonging to different age groups. The brand follows strict practices of biodynamic agriculture and is certified in Biodynamic Farming.
This simply means that the animals, land, and farmers involved in the production of the baby formula are treated with care and respect by striking a balance between the community and environment. The result is a high-quality baby formula that has been certified organic and follows the guidelines drafted by the Bioland Association.
Lebenswert Stage 1 Organic Formula is a great alternative for breast milk. It can also be used as an addition to breastfeeding. Babies typically readily accept the change from breast milk to Lebenswert baby formula. You can use Lebenswert formula for feeding your infant using a feeding bottle or add it to Holle Wholegrain Porridges. The formula is gluten-free, easy to digest, and does not contain any added sugar.
The formula can be prepared easily by using the scoop included in the product packaging. If you want to hit accurate ratios, make sure you use only the scoop provided with the baby formula. Add 1 scoop for every 1 ounce of water.
Lebenswert Nutritional Features
- Gluten-free baby formula.
- Does not contain maltodextrin or other added sugars.
- Suitable for newborn babies and infant up to 6 months.
- Suitable for feeding through a feeding bottle.
- Cultivated from farms that meet stringent guidelines drafted by the Bioland Association.
- Certified organic.
- Contains high-quality ingredients and raw materials.
- Does not contain any synthetic nitrogen fertilizers or pesticides.
Pros
- The baby formula contains only lactose as a natural sweetener and carbohydrate.
- It does not contain any starch or maltodextrin.
- The baby formula does not contain any unnecessary chemicals or additives.
- Cows are raised in open-fields and not treated with any hormones or antibiotics.
- The baby formula does not contain peanut, wheat, or soy.
- The resulting mixture is light on the baby’s stomach.
- The baby formula is a great replacement for breast milk.
- The baby formula does not cause gas, bloating, and constipation.
Cons
- The baby formula cannot be bought from a U.S. market. You can only buy it online (we buy ours from Huggable.com here)
- Since Lebenswert baby formula comes in different stages for babies for different age groups, you need to keep switching the product with the growing age of your infant.
- The baby formula contains Palm Oil which some parents don’t prefer.
Full Review Read our full Lebenswert Formula review for more details.
Parents Opinion for Lebenswert Stage 1 Organic Formula
The product has over 300 reviews and rating and is currently rated 5-stars. We deep-dived into the existing customer feedback and here’s what new moms and dads have to say about the product:
- Many parents who were feeding their babies U.S. baby formulas have switched to Lebenswert which is an EU baby formula. Their babies are simply loving the product.
- From Free Delivery to the amazing taste of Lebenswert Baby Formula, parents are simply in awe of all the great things about the baby formula.
- Parents who’ve used other baby formulas have mentioned that Lebenswert Baby Formula looks, smells, and tastes like breast milk.
- Many babies who refuse breast milk are readily accepting Lebenswert Baby Formula because of its taste and texture.
- Many babies suffering from digestive problems are constipation and indigestion free since they started consuming Lebenswert Baby Formula.
Hipp Combiotic First Infant Organic Formula
Hipp Combiotic First Infant Organic Formula comes with all the essential nutrients a baby needs to grow healthy and strong. The best thing about Hipps Organic Infant Formula is that it’s loaded with probiotics and prebiotics.
While adults can provide the intestines with healthy bacteria by consuming foods such as sauerkraut and yogurt, babies require the support of prebiotics and probiotics to ensure proper functioning of their digestive system and maintain gut health.
The milk formula is suitable for a newborn as well as up to 6-month old babies. You can introduce Hipp First Infant Organic Formula as soon as your baby is born. It contains vital Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids among several other nutrients important for your baby’s health and development. Moreover, the protein levels in this formula have also been altered to meet the findings of nutritional studies.
The primary ingredient in the formula is skim milk. Therefore, Hipp Combiotic First Infant Organic Formula is an authentic dairy product and is derived from healthy cows.
Make sure you follow the preparation and feeding instructions mentioned on the box. Also, before using the product, make sure you wash your hands as milk powders are not sterile. Boil running water and allow it to cool for some time. Use only natural boiled water.
Avoid using any artificially boiled water. Then add the required amount of water to the feeding bottle. Using the scoop included in the product package, add 1 scoop baby formula for 1 ounce of water. Place the teat and cap of the bottle and shake the bottle to mix well.
Do not make the mixture stronger or weaker than required. Also, do not mix the milk formula with any other product. If you notice any inconsistency in your infant’s stool, don’t get hassled. Since Hipp Combiotic First Infant Organic Formula contains prebiotic in the form of oligosaccharides, it may change your baby’s stools similar to the stools of breastfed infants.
Hipp Nutritional Features
- Suitable for newborn infants till they turn 6 months old.
- Gentle organic milk formula.
- Contains Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids, prebiotics, probiotics, Vitamin A, Vitamin B6, Vitamin C, Vitamin D, Vitamin E, and Vitamin K for healthy growth and development of your baby.
- Contains organic lactose for natural sweetening.
- Suitable replacement for breast milk.
Pros:
- The baby formula is gentler on the infant’s stomach than other baby formulas on the market.
- The baby formula is certified organic.
- You can use the product as a substitute for breast milk or in addition to breastfeeding.
- The baby formula does not contain any processed refine sugar.
Cons:
- Some Hipp formulas have been reported to have traces of aluminum. However, the quantity was minute, and there is no proof till date that it can harm babies.
- The baby formula contains LCP oils which some parent don’t prefer.
- Overall, the price of Hipp baby formula is a little higher (although you can save 10% here with code THEBABYSWAG)
- The baby formula contains Palm Oil that is usually found in soaps.
- ARA and DHA present in Hipp Baby Formula are extracted using hexane, a neurotoxin which can be harmful for your baby.
Parents Opinion for Hipp Combiotic First Infant Organic Formula
The product has almost 70 reviews and ratings and is currently rated 5-stars. We read through the feedback of existing customers and here’s what they have to say about the product:
- Many parents are highly satisfied with the texture, taste, and smell on Hipp Combiotic First Infant Organic Formula. Babies could hardly spot any difference in the look and taste of breast milk and Hipp Baby Formula.
- Some new moms and dads have mentioned that their babies do not suffer from constipation and issues such as bloating and gas anymore. Hipp Combiotic First Infant Organic Formula keeps their baby’s gut healthy.
- Parents who found it difficult to mix another baby formula thoroughly are happy with Hipp Combiotic First Infant Organic Formula. It mixes well and does not become very bubbly. Moreover, the powder is lightweight and dissolves almost instantly. No clumping or sticking has been noticed on the sides of the feeding bottle.
- On top of everything, parents prefer this baby formula as it’s not harmful in any way.
The Verdict: Hipp or Lebenswert
Even though Lebenswert and Hipp Baby Formula have many similarities, upon further review in the Lebenswert vs. Hipp comparison, we found out that each infant formula has something special for babies.
However, Lebenswert Stage 1 Organic Formula is a stronger contender here. It does not contain any unnecessary ingredients or added sugar.
Even though Hipp Combiotic First Infant Organic Formula comes with all the essential minerals, vitamins, fatty acids, probiotics, and more, for healthy growth and development of your baby, it contains traces of metals such as aluminum and oils that are not found in Lebenswert Baby Formula.
Also, DHA and ARA present in Hipp Combiotic First Infant Organic Formula are extracted using hexane, a neurotoxic chemical compound. Even though the brand claims that hexane is completely removed after extraction and cannot be detected in Hipp baby formulas.
Biodynamic Farming involved in the case of Lebenswert Formula beats everything else. It means that no synthetic chemicals or fertilizers have been used during the production of the baby formula. Everything that goes into Lebenswert Baby Formula is organic. So, all in all, Lebenswert is a high-quality product that’s entirely pure and nutritious.
Bottom Line: While we LOVE both of these brands as mainstream alternatives, we prefer the cleaner ingredient profile and true biodynamic processing found in Lebenswert here. NOTE: The lowest prices I’ve found online are via MyOrganicCompany here (use code THEBABYSWAG to take 10% off).
It can be hard to find a good supplier for Lebenswert online, but we've found a great one with TheMilkyBox (use code TBS10 for 10% off). They are rarely out of stock, ship promptly, and typically have very competitive pricing.
FAQ about Lebenswert and Hipp
Answer: Yes, Hipp formula is hypoallergenic. If your baby’s stomach is sensitive, Hipp Combiotic First Infant Organic Formula can be a good option.
Answer: Combiotic formula milk is organic, and it contains essential vitamins, minerals, Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids, prebiotics, and probiotics in the form of oligosaccharides required by babies to grow strong and healthy.
Answer No, Lebenswert formula does not contain maltodextrin. For sweetening, it contains lactose which is a natural carbohydrate.
Answer: Do not keep the feeding bottle containing the mixture outside for over 2 hours. After 2 hours, store the bottle inside your refrigerator and use it within 24 hours.
Answer: Yes, you can. However, it’s not a healthy choice for your baby. Brands use lactose instead of maltodextrin and sugar syrup so that your baby doesn’t gain weight rapidly. If your baby likes the taste, you can add sugar. Also, most of the baby formulas on the market are already sweetened.
Answer: HiPP is named after the family in Germany who started the brand, along with their family farm and mill started by Joseph Hipp over 100 years ago.
Final thoughts on Lebenswert vs Hipp
As you’ve seen in the Lebenswert vs. Hipp comparison here, Lebenswert is a better choice.
However, before you pick one of the options, make sure you know the exact requirements of your baby, existing food allergies they have, and other digestive issues they’re suffering from such as constipation, bloating, gas, etc. You can combine both the baby formulas and use them on alternate days.
Before you begin using either of the options or both regularly, go for trial and error. Both products are certified organic and resemble breast milk. If you want, you can even check with your pediatrician and seek their advice.
Nevertheless, as a new mom or dad, you’re the best judge for your baby. If you’re really interested in feeding your baby a milk formula that contains prebiotics and probiotics, Hipp Combiotic First Infant Organic Formula would be an ideal choice.
Here, the big question is picking the best option between Lebenswert vs. Hipp, and we hope we’ve helped you pick the best option for your baby. Personally, we feel that Lebenswert is better than Hipp. It’s less expensive and more reliable than Hipp. No matter which product you choose, you can rest assured that you’re purchasing a product that’s superior-quality, organic, and safe for your baby.
If you have any other baby food products in mind that you would like us to review, you can let us know, and we’ll get working. Also, if you have any more questions related to either of the brands mentioned in this comparison, you can post your questions in the comment section below.
Bottom Line: While we LOVE both of these brands as mainstream alternatives, we prefer the cleaner ingredient profile and true biodynamic processing found in Lebenswert here. NOTE: The lowest prices I’ve found online are via MyOrganicCompany here (use code THEBABYSWAG to take 10% off).
Where to Buy Hipp and Lebenswert
While you won’t find these in supermarkets or even most specialty stores / health food stores, you can find them online.
In recent years the reliability, pricing, and selection for European formulas has dramatically increased online.
Where to Buy Lebenswert: There are a few places I’ve found reliable pricing and supply:
- Lebenswert on MyOrganicCompany.store: Available in bulk discounts PLUS 10% off with code THEBABYSWAG.
- Lebenswert on Huggable.com: Typically the best pricing, most reliable shipping, and consistently in stock supplier. Use code TBS5OFF to take 5% off your order.
- OrganicBabyFood.shop: Newer site, but seems to have a great selection of Lebenswert products (also has a wholesale site for BULK ordering). Use code BABYSWAG5 to save 5% off your entire order.
It can be hard to find a good supplier for Lebenswert online, but we've found a great one with TheMilkyBox (use code TBS10 for 10% off). They are rarely out of stock, ship promptly, and typically have very competitive pricing.
Where to Buy Hipp: Hipp is similarly available in the following locations:
- Hipp on MyOrganicCompany.store: Also great pricing and features different countries of origin in Europe, if you have a preference. THEBABYSWAG discount of 10% also applies.
- Hipp on Huggable.com: Sometimes has better pricing, depending on the country of origin. Use code TBS5OFF to take 5% off your order.
- OrganicBabyFood.shop (Use code BABYSWAG5 to save 5% off your entire order)
MyOrganicCompany.store offers some of the LOWEST prices and best SELECTION of organic European baby formula in BULK. They have generously offered our readers and additional 5% OFF orders with code THEBABYSWAG at checkout!
Mandy
Tuesday 15th of June 2021
This article says it’s updated for 2021 so I’m hoping you have some info. Where did you find that the DHA/ARA used by HIPP Dutch is extracted using Hexane? Is this still/currently the case and since EU regulations require DHA to be added 2020 forward, does Lebenswert follow the same practice now of using Hexane extracted DHA since they had to start including it? I’m having a hard time finding this information. Thanks!
Sarah L
Sunday 9th of June 2019
I was under the impression hipp doesn’t contain Hexane. Is that not correct?
Christine
Wednesday 5th of June 2019
From the ingredients list on www.organicstart.com, Folgemilch 2 does contain maltodextrin. "ORGANIC SKIMMED MILK, ORGANIC WHEY POWDER (PARTIALLY DEMINERALIZED), ORGANIC VEGETABLE OILS [ORGANIC PALM OIL, ORGANIC RAPESEED OIL, ORGANIC SUNFLOWER OIL], ORGANIC MALTODEXTRIN, CALCIUM CARBONATE, VITAMIN C, IRON GLUCONATE, VITAMIN E, ZINC SULFATE, NIACIN, CALCIUM PANTOTHENATE, COPPER SULFATE, VITAMIN B1, VITAMIN A, VITAMIN B6, FOLIC ACID, MANGANESE SULFATE, POTASSIUM IODIDE, VITAMIN K1, SODIUM SELENITE, VITAMIN D."
TBSStaff
Monday 17th of June 2019
Thanks for the correction Christine. This is super helpful!