Holle A2 Cow Stage 2 baby formula is designed for babies 6-10 months old. It is called an A2 formula because it contains A2 protein – a cow’s milk protein said to be easier to digest for babies with milk protein sensitivities. It is also said to be more similar to the protein in breast milk.
Holle A2 Cow Stage 2 formula produced in Germany from cow’s milk sourced from Demeter-certified farms. These are farms that adhere to biodynamic farming practices which employ a holistic and ecological approach to agriculture. In order to maintain this designation, their farms need to undergo annual reviews. Holle A2 Cow Stage 2 is similar to popular US-based brands of A2 cow’s milk baby formulas and adheres to stringent European Union (EU) organic guidelines.
Most traditional cow milk-based baby formulas contain a mix of both A1 and A2 proteins. Some babies may experience digestive discomfort or inflammation from A1 proteins due to milk protein sensitivity.
Milk protein sensitivities are rarer than lactose intolerance, but still exist, and can cause digestive discomfort and gut inflammation in those that are sensitive.
However, most research on the digestive benefits of A2 milk is in animals, which may not translate to the same outcomes in humans.
Here are the pros and cons of the Holle Cow 2 Stage 2 baby formula.
Pros:
Cons:
The ingredients in Holle A2 Cow Stage 2 are designed to meet the nutritional needs of babies ages 6-10 months who are sensitive to A1 cow’s milk proteins. Below is the complete ingredient list.
Skimmed A2 Milk*1, Whey Product* (Partially Demineralized Whey Powder*), Vegetable Oils* (Palm Oil*2, Rapeseed Oil*, Sunflower Oil*), Maltodextrin*, Starch*, L-Tyrosine, Potassium Chloride, Fish Oil3, M. Alpina Oil**, Calcium Chloride, Magnesium Chloride, Calcium Carbonate, Calcium Hydroxide, L-Tryptophan, Sodium Chloride, Ferrous Lactate, Vitamin C, Zinc Sulfate, Copper Sulfate, Vitamin E, Niacin, Pantothenic Acid, Vitamin B1, Vitamin A, Vitamin B6, Manganese Sulfate, Potassium Iodate, Folic Acid, Sodium Selenate, Vitamin K, Vitamin D, Biotin, Vitamin B12
Allergens: Contains fish products, milk products.
The primary ingredient in this formula is A2 milk protein, a type of protein derived from cow’s milk said to be easier to digest. It is said to do this by preventing a peptide linked to digestive discomfort called BCM-7 from being absorbed.
It is free of artificial sweeteners, pesticides, growth hormones, gluten, and soy.
Of note, this formula contains two major allergens – fish and milk. Fish oil is added to provide a source of DHA, an essential fatty acid for a baby’s brain development.
There are a few ingredients to be aware of in this formula. It contains palm oil and maltodextrin, both of which are linked to possible health issues. Palm oil is very high in saturated fat which may increase heart disease risk, and it is unclear how much is safe to consume.
Maltodextrin is a white powdered food additive that is derived from corn or other starches. It is an FDA-approved additive but may alter the gut microbiome and cause digestive discomfort in some people.
However, the research is mixed on its effects. A small 2020 study showed it may actually improve gut health. More research is still needed, so it is likely highly individualized based on your baby’s own tolerance.
The nutrients in Holle A2 Cow Stage 2 formula are designed for babies ages 6-10 months. It is complete baby formula, meaning it provides 100% of the nutritional requirements for this age group.
This formula contains A2 cow’s milk protein as the protein source and lactose and corn maltodextrin as the carbohydrate source. It provides essential vitamins and minerals to meet your baby’s nutrient needs including iron at appropriate levels and DHA derived from fish oil.
While this formula is likely generally tolerated in most babies, there are a few potential side effects. This formula contains milk ingredients and lactose, which may not be suitable for babies with milk allergies or lactose intolerance.
Additionally, those with a fish allergy should avoid this product as fish oil is on its list of ingredients.
It also contains the food additive maltodextrin, which may cause digestive upset in some people.
Lastly, this formula should not be used in babies over 10 months of age as it may not meet their nutritional requirements.
Holle Cow A2 Stage 2 formula is designed as a good option for babies with a sensitivity to the A1 protein in cow’s milk, but who do not have a true milk allergy or lactose intolerance. A2- specific products are a relatively new category in the baby formula world, but there are a few other formula brands that also offer an A2 option.
Here’s how Holle Cow A2 Stage 2 compares to 3 other popular A2-based options:
Holle Cow A2 Stage 2 is a European organic baby formula whereas Similac Organic A2 is made in the United States. Both formulas are cow milk-based and contain only the A2 cow’s milk protein said to be more gentle on the digestive system.
Both provide complete nutrition for their specified age range, but Similac Organic A2 meets the nutrition needs of up to one versus 6-10 months for Holle A2 Cow Stage 2.
Similac Organic A2 does not contain palm oil, while Holle Cow A2 Stage 2 does. Palm oil is high in saturated fat and may be potentially harmful in large amounts. But, although Similac Organic A2 does not contain palm oil, per 100g it is higher in saturated fat when compared to Holle’s formula.
Both formulas contain essential vitamins, minerals, and DHA needed for a baby’s growth and development.
Both of these formulas are derived from European A2 cows. They are designed for babies who may be sensitive to A1 proteins in cow’s milk, but both contain lactose. Holle Cow A2 Stage 2 is organic, while Enfamil Premium A2 is not.
The calorie and nutrient profiles of both formulas are pretty similar, and both contain vegetable oils and palm oil.
Both formulas provide DHA, but the manufacturer of Enfamil Premium A2 claims it contains double the amount of the leading competitor product. However, there is no DHA listed on its nutrition label to confirm this.
Enfamil Premium A2 contains inositol, an ingredient that may reduce respiratory distress in preterm infants. Holle Cow A2 Stage 2 does not contain this, but it is not designed specifically for preterm infants.
Holle Cow A2 Stage 2 and Gerber Good Start A2 are both A2 cow’s milk formulas designed for sensitive tummies. They are both non-GMO products, but Gerber Good Start A2 is not organic.
Gerber Good Start A2 contains added probiotics and prebiotic fiber, which may have the potential to support a baby’s gut health.
Similar to Holle Cow A2 Stage 2, Gerber Good Start A2 contains vegetable oils and palm oil, which may potentially be harmful to health in large amounts. Holle Cow A2 Stage 2 is recommended for ages 6-10 months only, while Gerber Good Start A2 can be used from 0-12 months.
Holle A2 Cow Stage 2 baby formula is a solid choice if you’re seeking a cow’s milk formula that is easier to digest. It is organic, nutritionally complete, and derived from sustainable farming practices.
Every baby’s formula needs are unique, and there is not a one size fits all formula. When selecting a formula, always speak to your pediatrician about the type of product that is best for your baby.
Most potential side effects are mild, but they are still possible. Allergic reactions are possible in those with fish or milk allergies, as it contains both fish and milk ingredients. It also contains a starch called maltodextrin that may cause digestive upset in some people. Lastly, the lactose present may cause stomach upset in those with lactose intolerance.
Yes, it does contain lactose and so it may not be suitable for babies with lactose intolerance.
Yes, this formula and brand is well regarded in the baby formula industry, and is held to high safety standards and guidelines.
No, it is derived from cow’s milk and is therefore not considered vegan.
This formula is a good option for those looking for a cow’s milk formula that may be easier to digest. It is intended for babies 6-10 months old.
This formula is European Union (EU) organic certified and approved but is not yet FDA-approved. It is currently awaiting FDA approval in the US.
| Age | Water (ml/fl oz) | Scoops | Meals per Day |
|---|---|---|---|
| > 6 months | 170/5.74 | 5 | 2-3 |
| 200/6.76 | 6 | 2-3 | |
| 230/7.77 | 7 | 2-3 |
| Nutritional Facts | (Per 100ml or 3.38 oz/3 oz prepared) |
|---|---|
| Energy | 280/67 kJ/Kcal |
| Total Fat | 3.4 g |
| Saturated fatty acids | 1 g |
| Monosaturated fatty acids | 1.9 g |
| Polyunsaturated fatty acids | 0.6 g |
| Linoleic acid (Omega 6) | 523 mg |
| Linoleic acid (Omega 3) | 51 mg |
| DHA | 14.5 mg |
| ARA | 14.5 mg |
| Total Carbs | 7.7 g |
| Sugar | 5 g |
| Lactose | 5 g |
| Starch | 0.7 g |
| Protein | 1.3 g |
| Vitamin A | 49.8 mcg (RE) |
| Vitamin D | 1.7 mcg |
| Vitamin E | 1.2 mg |
| Vitamin K | 5.9 mcg |
| Vitamin C | 15 mg |
| Thiamine | 0.095 mg |
| Riboflavin | 0.15 mg |
| Niacin | 0.51 mg |
| Nutritional Facts | (Per 100ml or 3.38 oz/3 oz prepared) |
|---|---|
| Vitamin B6 | 0.068 mg |
| Folic Acid | 14.8 mcg |
| Folate | 24.6 mcg (DFE) |
| Vitamin B12 | 0.16 mcg |
| Biotin | 1.5 mcg |
| Pantothenic Acid | 0.56 mg |
| Potassium | 67.8 mg |
| Chloride | 47.8 mg |
| Calcium | 51.6 mg |
| Phosphorous | 32.1 mg |
| Magnesium | 6.47 mg |
| Iron | 0.95 mg |
| Zinc | 0.45 mg |
| Copper | 0.051 mg |
| Manganese | 0.012 mg |
| Flouride | 0.0053 mg |
| Selenium | 2.6 mcg |
| Iodine | 15.2 mcg |
| Sodium | 19 mg |
| Choline | 20 mg |
Skimmed A2 Milk*1, Whey Product* (Partially Demineralized Whey Powder*), Vegetable Oils* (Palm Oil*2, Rapeseed Oil*, Sunflower Oil*), Maltodextrin*, Starch*, L-Tyrosine, Potassium Chloride, Fish Oil3, M. Alpina Oil**, Calcium Chloride, Magnesium Chloride, Calcium Carbonate, Calcium Hydroxide, L-Tryptophan, Sodium Chloride, Ferrous Lactate, Vitamin C, Zinc Sulfate, Copper Sulfate, Vitamin E, Niacin, Pantothenic Acid, Vitamin B1, Vitamin A, Vitamin B6, Manganese Sulfate, Potassium Iodate, Folic Acid, Sodium Selenate, Vitamin K, Vitamin D, Biotin, Vitamin B12
Allergens: Contains fish products, milk products.
