First bites of independence

Baby formulas will never be equal to breast milk, however they have been formulated to provide a similar pattern of nutrients to support normal growth and development when breast milk is not available. 

Breastfeeding requires approximately 2000 kilojoules extra each day compared with if you were not breastfeeding. This is a lot of extra food (and fluid) to fit in! But don’t worry, no doubt you will notice your appetite and thirst will increase too.

Manufacturers and importers of infant formula, otherwise known as baby formula, may be bound to some very important codes of marketing and advertising.

There may be many reasons why you will slowly reduce then stop breastfeeding, the right time will always depend on you and your baby. Whether it’s because baby is getting bigger and solids are introduced or your baby and you simply decide it’s the right time, there are some ways you can do it to minimise the problems that may arise for you or your baby.

There may not be many situations where you will need to warm up a formula feed, but on the odd occasion when you do it’s important to know how to do it safely.

Whether you’re moving from breastfeeding to formula feeding, or changing from one formula to another, it’s important to keep your eye out for signs of intolerance. Read and hear tips from our experts.