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Powder vs. Liquid Formula

Powder vs. Liquid Formula

Do you feel confused about powder vs. liquid formula? Learn the differences between powder and liquid formula and their different benefits for babies.

If you recently decided to formula-feed your little one, you may feel uncertain about which type of formula to pick. When you’re making your decision, powder vs. liquid formula is an important factor to take into consideration. Luckily, Enfamil® offers a variety of options to accommodate your individual needs and preferences, including powder formula, liquid concentrate formula, and ready-to-use liquid formula. Learn about the differences between liquid and powder formula, along with the similarities they share.

The differences between powder, concentrate and liquid formula

Formula Type Powder Formula Liquid Concentrate Formula Ready-to-Use Liquid Formula
Formula Details Loose Powder to be mixed with water Liquid concentrate to be mixed with water Pre-prepared, ready to serve
Container Can, small tub or single-serve packets Can Individual bottles
Price Point $ $ $$
Preparation*
  1. Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water before preparing formula.
  2. Pour desired amount of water into the bottle. Add powder.
  3. Cap bottle and shake well.
  1. Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water before preparing formula.
  2. Clean can lid, shake can well, and open.
  3. Pour desired amount of water into the bottle. Add an equal amount of concentrated liquid. Shake or stir well.
  1. Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water before preparing bottle for feeding.
  2. Shake bottle well and remove cap.
  3. Attach nipple unit and serve.
Enfamil® Products Shop Enfamil® Powder Formulas Shop ®Liquid Concentrate Formulas Shop Enfamil® Ready-to-Use Formulas

*Note: Preparation and storage instructions vary depending on the formula, so be sure to read the label thoroughly before you begin. 

Powder Formula vs. Liquid: Key Considerations

  • Ready-to-Use is the quickest and most convenient since it requires no clean-up
  • Powder and liquid concentrate come at a lower price point
  • Powder is not sterile and should not be fed to premature infants or infants with immune system issues
  • Proper hygiene is important for all three formulas types

There is no wrong option when it comes to choosing a formula. At the end of the day, it all comes down to you and your little one’s specific needs. To learn more about powder vs. liquid formulas and different formula options, visit our Enfamil formula product page.

All information Enfamil, including but not limited to information about health, medical conditions, and nutrition, is intended for your general knowledge and is not a substitute for a healthcare professional's medical identification, advice, or management for specific medical conditions. You should seek medical care and consult your doctor or pediatrician for any specific health or nutrition issues. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment, care, or help because of information you have read on Enfamil .