Hipp Stage 1 vs Stage 2: Which Formula Should You Buy?

As your baby grows, their nutritional needs change, and selecting the right formula to support their growth and development is essential.

In this article, we will analyze the differences between Hipp Stage 1 and Stage 2 formulas to help you choose the best one for your little one.

Let’s get after it!

Our Short Answer

We recommend reading the full article, but the answer is quite simple: Hipp Stage 1 and 2 are the same formula except for the extra iron and other minerals in Hipp Stage 2.

Do you need to switch to Stage 2?

No, you don’t NEED to change. While it is true Stage 2 formulas have higher quantities of minerals and iron, it is not necessary to swap to a follow-on formula if they have started with complementary feeding through purees or Baby-Led Weaning.

If however, your baby has not started solids, or you fear they are not eating what they should, then switching to a Stage 2 formula is not a bad idea.

Also, take into account that Hipp formulas have different manufacturers: Dutch, German and UK. So make sure to read all the ingredients labels before choosing.

However, the change to Stage 2 formulas remain the same amongst all their types.

HiPP Combiotic Stage 1

Hipp Combiotic Stage 1 – The ideal choice for newborns needing complete nutrition with lactose-based, organic ingredients, and prebiotics/probiotics, supporting brain and gut development.

Overview

1. Suitable from birth onwards

HiPP Combiotic Stage 1 is designed to cater to the nutritional needs of newborns from birth onwards. This formula can be used as a supplement or a complete substitute for breast milk, depending on your baby’s unique requirements and your personal preference.

2. Organic and high-quality ingredients

HiPP is committed to using only the finest organic ingredients in its formulas. It follows strict European regulations on organic farming, ensuring that its products are free from harmful pesticides, antibiotics, and artificial additives.

Key Features

1. Lactose-based

HiPP Combiotic Stage 1 is a lactose-based formula that uses lactose as the primary source of carbohydrates. Lactose is the natural sugar in breast milk, making it easily digestible and beneficial for your baby’s development.

2. Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids

This formula is enriched with essential omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which are crucial for your baby’s brain and nervous system development and support healthy vision and immune function.

3. Prebiotics and probiotics

HiPP Combiotic Stage 1 contains a blend of prebiotics and probiotics that promote a healthy gut environment for your baby. Prebiotics, such as galactooligosaccharides (GOS), act as food for the beneficial bacteria in your baby’s gut, while probiotics, like Lactobacillus fermentum, help maintain a healthy balance of gut flora.

Ideal for

1. Newborns needing a formula supplement or substitute

If your baby requires a formula supplement or if you are unable to breastfeed, HiPP Combiotic Stage 1 is an excellent choice, providing complete nutrition for newborns from birth onwards.

2. Parents seeking a high-quality, organic formula

For parents who value organic and high-quality ingredients in their baby’s formula, HiPP Combiotic Stage 1 offers an ideal option, ensuring that your baby receives the best possible nutrition while minimizing exposure to harmful chemicals and additives.

HiPP Combiotic Stage 2

HiPP Combiotic Stage 2 – Ideal for older babies starting solid foods, with increased essential nutrients, omega-3/6 fatty acids, and prebiotics/probiotics for healthy growth.

Overview

1. For babies at least six months old

HiPP Combiotic Stage 2 is designed for babies who are at least six months old and have started incorporating solid foods into their diet. As babies grow, their nutritional requirements change, and Stage 2 meets these evolving needs.

2. Higher quantities of vitamins and minerals

To support the increased nutritional demands of older babies, HiPP Combiotic Stage 2 contains higher quantities of essential vitamins and minerals. These nutrients are crucial to your baby’s growth and development, helping them reach their full potential.

Key Features

1. Increased nutrients for older babies

As your baby transitions to solid foods, their nutritional needs become more complex. HiPP Combiotic Stage 2 provides increased amounts of key nutrients, such as iron, calcium, and vitamins A, C, and D, to support your baby’s growth and overall health.

2. Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids

Like Stage 1, HiPP Combiotic Stage 2 is enriched with essential omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. These important nutrients support your baby’s brain development, vision, immune function, and overall health as they age.

3. Prebiotics and probiotics

HiPP Combiotic Stage 2 maintains the same blend of prebiotics and probiotics found in Stage 1 to promote a healthy gut environment. As your baby’s digestive system matures, these beneficial bacteria support their gut health and overall well-being.

Ideal for

1. Older babies starting solid foods

As your baby begins to explore solid foods, providing them with a formula that meets their changing nutritional needs can be beneficial. HiPP Combiotic Stage 2 is designed specifically for older babies and offers the ideal balance of nutrients to support their growth.

2. Transition from Stage 1 to Stage 2

If your baby has been thriving on HiPP Combiotic Stage 1, transitioning to Stage 2 is a natural next step. This formula offers the same high-quality, organic ingredients while providing the increased nutrients older babies require, ensuring a seamless transition as your baby grows.

Comparison: Stage 1 vs Stage 2

The main difference between HiPP Combiotic Stage 1 and Stage 2 is the extra iron in Stage 2, as well as other minerals.

Nutrient content differences

Nutrient	HIPP Stage 1	HIPP Stage 2
Energy	278 kJ / 67 kcal	285 kJ / 68 kcal
Fat	3.6 g	3.7 g
– saturates	1.5 g	1.6 g
– monounsaturates	1.6 g	1.6 g
– polyunsaturates	0.5 g	0.5 g
DHA	13.4 mg	13.6 mg
Carbohydrates	7.1 g	7.2 g
– sugar	5.9 g	6.0 g
– lactose	5.7 g	5.8 g
– starch	1.2 g	1.2 g
Fibre	0.3 g	0.4 g
– galactooligosacharides	0.3 g	0.4 g
Protein	1.3 g	1.3 g
Sodium	20 mg	20 mg
Potassium	67 mg	84 mg
Chloride	52 mg	52 mg
Calcium	52 mg	70 mg
Phosphorus	30 mg	40 mg
Magnesium	4.5 mg	6.3 mg
Iron	0.60 mg	1.0 mg
Zinc	0.50 mg	0.50 mg
Copper	0.054 mg	0.054 mg
Manganese	0.0050 mg	0.0070 mg
Flouride	<0.0050 mg	<0.010 mg
Selenium	3.9 µg	3.9 µg
Iodine	15 µg	15 µg
Vitamin A	55 µg	56 µg
Vitamin D	1.5 µg	1.6 µg
Vitamin E	0.70 mg	0.80 mg
Vitamin K	5.2 µg	3.1 µg
Vitamin C	8.9 mg	10 mg

Age and developmental stage suitability

Each stage of HiPP Combiotic formula is designed to cater to the specific needs of your baby’s age and developmental stage:

• Stage 1 is suitable for newborns and young infants, providing a complete nutritional solution from birth onwards. It can be used as a supplement or substitute for breast milk, depending on your baby’s needs.
• Stage 2 is designed for babies at least six months old who have started eating solid foods. This stage helps support their growth and overall health as they transition to a more complex diet.

Transitioning between the stages

Transitioning between HiPP Combiotic Stage 1 and Stage 2 should be seamless, as both formulas share many of the same high-quality, organic ingredients.

• Monitor your baby’s readiness: It’s important to transition to Stage 2 when your baby is at least six months old and has started to eat solid foods. Look for signs of readiness, such as an increased interest in food and the ability to sit up with support.
• Gradual introduction (or not): You can mix them and change gradually, or directly, without transitioning. Both approaches work, so choose the one you are more comfortable with.
• Observe your baby’s reaction: As with any dietary change, monitor your baby’s reaction to the new formula.

Best Places to Buy Hipp Formula

We recommend two retailers if you want to purchase Hipp formula online in a trustworthy way: Organic’s Best and The Milky Box.

What are the best alternatives to Hipp?

We always recommend parents to learn about other brands just in case their baby does not agree with the formula they choose.

Here are other brands worth exploring and learning about:

Holle: A German brand renowned for its organic and Demeter-certified baby formulas. They provide cow’s milk-based and goat milk-based formulas, offering parents multiple options to suit their baby’s needs. Holle is dedicated to using the finest organic ingredients and adheres to strict European organic standards. *Read: Holle vs Hipp

Lebenswert: Another German brand producing organic baby formulas under the Bioland certification. Their formulas are designed to closely mimic breast milk composition, providing essential nutrients with minimal additives. Lebenswert is an excellent option for parents seeking a simpler, more natural formula. *Read: Lebenswert vs Hipp

Bobbie: A US-based brand focusing on organic baby formulas made from grass-fed cow’s milk. They use high-quality ingredients and prioritize EU standards, ensuring their formula is free from palm oil, soy, and GMOs. Bobbie is a superb choice for parents who prioritize sustainability, clean ingredients, and a formula closely mimicking breast milk. *Read: Bobbie vs Hipp

Kendamil: A UK-based brand offering a unique, whole milk-based organic formula. Their products are free from palm oil, GMOs, and artificial additives, ensuring a high-quality and nutritious choice for your baby. Kendamil also provides a goat milk-based formula for those seeking a cow’s milk alternative. *Read: Kendamil vs Hipp

Last Words

We hope this article has solved all your doubts about Hipp Stage 1 and Stage 2 formulas.

If you have further questions, leave a comment or contact us at [email protected] and we’ll give you an answer in less than 24 hours.

Happy feeding!