Parent's Choice Infant formula
Ideally, an infant's best source of nutrition is breast milk. There is no nutritional supplement or formula that matches the benefits of breast milk, at least for the first few months. However, infant formula does act as an effective nutritional source in cases where breast milk is not an option, or where supplemental nutrition is necessary. Parent's Choice Infant formula is one such option. It meets the minimum nutritional requirements of the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act (the "Infant Formula Act") and FDA regulations. It provides infants with vitamins, iron and other nutrients they need for healthy growth and development.
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Identification
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Parent's Choice infant formulas are manufactured by PBM Nutritionals, Georgia, Vermont--a facility that adheres to stringent guidelines established by the FDA and the quality-assurance regulations of the ISO. The facility has been manufacturing Parent's Choice infant formulas since 1998. Like other generic formulas, Parent's Choice meets all the minimum nutritional requirements in accordance with the Infant Formula Act enforced by the FDA. It thus meets the highest standards of safety and quality established for commercial infant formulas. Parent's Choice Infant Formula is available at Wal-Mart.
Types
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Parent's Choice manufactures different types of formulas to provide babies with supplemental nutrition, even when they have allergies or a sensitive digestive system.
Sensitivity Formula: A milk-based, lactose-free, easy-to-digest formula for babies who are sensitive to lactose.
Gentle Formula: An easy-to-digest, low lactose formula with partially broken-down whey protein for babies who experience gas or fussiness with standard milk-based formulas.
Organic Formula: USDA-certified organic formula that is produced without using pesticides, added growth hormones or antibiotics, and contains the lipids DHA and ARA derived from natural vegetarian sources.
Milk Formula: A milk-based infant formula that is fortified with iron and contains the essential nutrients and lipids necessary for baby's health, growth and development
Soy Formula: A lactose-free, soy-protein isolate formula for lactose-sensitive babies. Soy formula is recommended for babies who experience gas, fussiness or those who are suffering from diarrhea.
Lactose-free Formula: A milk-based, sucrose-free, lactose-free formula for babies with lactose intolerance. This formula contains milk-based protein but the lactose in milk is replaced with a carbohydrate that is easier to digest.
Stage 2 Formula: A formula with more protein and calcium to supplement the dietary needs of babies 9 months and older. This formula provides the additional nutritional needs of babies who are on a solid diet. -
Misconceptions
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Since Parent's Choice formulas cost much lesser ( up to 45 percent less) than popular national brands such as Enfamil and Similac, there exists some perceived doubt about the quality of Parent's Choice formulas. Those who have been using popular brand formulas for years may believe that, since they are more expensive, they must be "better" than the less expensive Parent's Choice formulas. However, the fact is that it is required that all baby formulas sold in the United States must be manufactured in accordance with, and meet the nutritional requirements of, the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act for Infant Formula under the regulation of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. All baby formulas must thus adhere to the same stringent standards of quality and safety. Parent's Choice is no exception. Parent's Choice Baby Formulas meet all nutritional guidelines of the Infant Formula Act and are manufactured in a quality-certified facility.
Size
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Parent's Choice infant formulas are available in the same sizes that are offered by popular, national brands, so it is easier for parents to compare their value. Parent's Choice Gentle Infant Formula is available in a 24-oz can. Parent's Choice Sensitivity Infant Formula, Organic Infant Formula, Milk Infant Formula, Soy Infant Formula, Lactose-Free Infant Formula, and Stage 2 Infant Formula are available in 25.75-oz cans.
Considerations
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Parent's Choice formulas cost less and may provide better value when compared to other national brand formulas. However, they are exclusively marketed by Wal-Mart. So, if you do all your shopping at a different store or at a warehouse, you may have to make an extra stop at Wal-Mart to pick up your baby's Parent's Choice formula.
Before making the switch to Parent's Choice, make sure you are convinced that it does indeed provide all the nutrients your baby needs. Compare labels with competing brands. Read the ingredients and nutritional information and see for yourself if all formulas indeed provide the same or similar nutrition.
No matter how nutritionally complete or affordable a formula may be, it cannot replace breast milk. Breast milk is best. Formula should only be used as an alternative when breast milk is not an option or a supplement. Parent's Choice offers an affordable, nutritionally rich supplement for your baby's growth and development.
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