HiPP vs Holle: Key Differences & Safety Comparison

What is HiPP? A German brand founded in 1899, producing a wide range of organic formulas. HiPP formulas often include added prebiotics and probiotics and are designed to closely mimic breast milk .
What is Holle? A Swiss brand from the 1930s, known for biodynamic farming (Demeter certification) and a simple, minimal-ingredient philosophy . It offers both cow and goat milk-based formulas.

Ingredient Aspect	HiPP	Holle
Organic Certification	EU Certified Organic. Most ingredients are organic, except for necessary components in specialty formulas (e.g., hydrolyzed protein) that are not available in organic form .	EU Certified Organic and also Demeter Biodynamic Certified for most stages. This represents one of the world’s strictest standards for biodynamic farming, which prohibits synthetic additives and prioritizes ecosystem health .
DHA Source	Derived from fish oil and vegetable oils. DHA (and often ARA) has been included for years and is now mandatory per EU law.	Derived from fish oil (cow milk) or algae (goat milk) formulas. Added to all formulas since the 2020 EU regulation made it mandatory.
Sweeteners Used	Primarily lactose only. Uses maltodextrin only in its Anti-Reflux formula for thickening.	Uses lactose only in its PRE stage. Other stages (1+) use a blend of lactose and organic maltodextrin.
Palm Oil Usage	Uses a blend of organic vegetable oils, which may include organic palm oil.	Uses a blend of organic vegetable oils, which may include organic palm oil.
Goat vs. Cow Milk	Offers a goat milk formula with A2 proteins and prebiotics, marketed as gentle for sensitive stomachs.	A pioneer in goat milk formula. Goat milk proteins are smaller and may be easier for some babies to digest than cow’s milk proteins .

EU Organic Regulations: Both brands must comply with strict EU regulations that exceed typical U.S. standards. These regulations ban GMOs, pesticides, hormones, antibiotics, artificial colors/flavors, and sucrose (table sugar) in standard formulas . EU formulas must contain at least 95% organic ingredients and derive 30% of calories from lactose.
Quality Testing Standards: HiPP states it tests for over 1,000 substances. Holle’s Demeter certification requires annual renewal and involves rigorous standards for soil health and animal welfare . Both operate within a regulatory framework where DHA is a mandatory ingredient in infant formula, ensuring key nutrient support for brain and eye development .
Manufacturing Transparency: The EU requires full traceability from farm to finished product. No official manufacturing-related recalls for Holle were found in available data.

Sensitivity	HiPP Features	Holle Features
Reflux	Offers a dedicated Anti-Reflux (AR) formula thickened with maltodextrin to help keep milk down.	No dedicated anti-reflux formula. Its standard formulas use maltodextrin, which can create a thicker consistency in later stages.
Gas & Discomfort	Most formulas include prebiotics (GOS), and some include probiotics, which can support gut health and reduce gas.	Does not contain added prebiotics or probiotics, focusing on a minimal ingredient list.
Constipation	Lactose-based formulas and prebiotics may promote softer stools. Special Comfort formula is designed for colic and constipation. Formulas take longer to digest than breast milk, which can sometimes lead to constipation.	The easy digestibility of goat milk formulas may benefit some babies with sensitivity-related constipation. Formula is generally digested more slowly than breast milk.
Lactose Sensitivity	All standard formulas are lactose-based. Not suitable for lactose intolerance.	All formulas contain lactose as a primary carbohydrate and are not for lactose intolerance.
Cow’s Milk Protein Sensitivity	Offers extensively hydrolyzed Hypoallergenic (HA) formulas for mild-to-moderate allergies. Goat milk formula provides an alternative protein source.	Goat milk formulas are a popular alternative, as the different protein structure can be easier to digest for some babies with sensitivities (not for confirmed allergies).

For Breastfed Babies & General Use: HiPP may integrate more easily due to its inclusion of pre/probiotics and a focus on mimicking breast milk’s nutritional profile.
For a Sensitive Stomach: Holle Goat milk formulas are often chosen for gentle digestion due to different proteins and fats. HiPP Comfort or HiPP Goat are also designed for sensitive tummies .
For Reflux-Prone Babies: HiPP Anti-Reflux is specifically formulated for this issue.
For Babies with Mild Milk Protein Sensitivities: HiPP Hypoallergenic (HA) uses hydrolyzed proteins. Holle Goat or HiPP Goat may be options for sensitivities, but are not for confirmed cow’s milk protein allergy (CMPA).
For Parents Prioritizing Biodynamic Farming: Holle (with Demeter certification) is the clear choice .

Pediatrician Consultation is Essential: Always discuss formula choice with your pediatrician, especially for babies with reflux, allergies, or poor weight gain. This is critical before using imported formulas. For guidance on bottle-feeding techniques, you can refer to this resource on how to bottle-feed your newborn.
Proper Preparation is Critical: Follow package instructions exactly. Do not dilute or concentrate formula, as this is harmful. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) provides guidelines on amount and schedule of formula feedings .
Import Considerations: HiPP and Holle are not FDA-approved, as they are regulated in Europe. You must import them via third-party retailers. Check expiration dates, ensure proper translation of instructions, and be aware of potential supply chain disruptions. The Mayo Clinic emphasizes that breast milk or formula is all your newborn needs and to seek help from a healthcare professional if you have feeding concerns.

Which is Safer Overall? Both brands are produced under exceptionally high EU safety and organic standards, making them generally comparable in terms of foundational safety and quality. The choice depends on your baby’s specific needs.
When HiPP May Be Better: For parents seeking a formula that includes prebiotics/probiotics, or if your baby needs a specialized formula (e.g., for reflux, hypoallergenic needs, or comfort).
When Holle May Be Better: For parents who prioritize biodynamic (Demeter) agriculture and a minimal ingredient list, or for babies who may benefit from trying a goat milk-based formula for gentle digestion.

HiPP vs Holle: Which Organic Formula Is Safer?