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The history of baby formula

Today, new parents looking to formula feed their babies are undoubtedly overwhelmed by all the options available to them. Just taking a stroll down the formula aisle for the first time could make any parent’s eyes glaze over. As science continues to improve, formula manufacturers persistently work to improve their formulations in an effort to get closer to replicating breast milk while also offering formula options for children with special health needs, allergies, intolerances, etc.

We didn’t always have so many options available to us. How did we get here? A little history for you…

Many years ago, baby formula wasn’t available, yet new mothers still encountered the same issues that mothers today often experience. Many of them were unable to breastfeed, had to work or unfortunately died during childbirth. Often, livestock was used to feed children, also known as dry nursing. Wet nursing (when a woman breastfeeds another woman’s child) was soon introduced, ensuring the proper nutrients for adequate growth.

When was baby formula invented?

In 1841, the nursing bottle was born. Initially made of glass, the first rubber nipple was patented shortly after. In 1865, baby formula was introduced to the market (Justus Von Liebig’s Soup for Infants). Liebig’s formula was made of cow’s milk, wheat, malt flour, and potassium bicarbonate.

In 1883, the development of evaporated milk allowed food to be transported and stored without spoiling. It was a huge breakthrough for food sterilization and allowed several baby formula brands to emerge.

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Formula regulations

Regulation of the formula industry began in 1929 with the formation of the Committee on Foods (formed by AMA, The American Medical Association), approving the safety and quality of formula composition. Prior to the passage of the 1980 Infant Formula Act, various formula brands started to emerge, leading to the passage of the 1980 Infant Formula Act. This set regulations on mandated testing, manufacturing processes, and nutritional standards.

Baby formula and marketing messaging

With the emergence of growing baby formula brands, a culture surrounding infant feeding was born. In the 1970’s, the World Health Organization, UNICEF, and nongovernmental organizations started a movement to promote and protect breastfeeding.

Since evolved, the foundation works to identify critical gaps in current breastfeeding protocols, guidelines, and education programs. Families and health professionals are provided with the most up-to-date scientific research, education and resources to practice safe infant feeding with breast milk, formula, or a combination of both.

Introduction of Organic Formulas

For quite some time, parents were left without an organic infant and toddler formula option. In fact, it wasn’t until 1999 when Baby’s Only® entered the organic market.

To sum it up:

Sources:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2684040/
https://www.contemporarypediatrics.com/pediatrics/concise-history-infant-formula-twists-and-turns-included
https://fedisbest.org/

Organic infant formulas for every baby

Our affordable infant and toddler formulas have been trusted by parents for over 20 years.

Shop Now