Holle German vs. Dutch Cow Formula: What Parents Should Know

Trying to find the right formula for your little one is a journey. If you have already decided that a European formula is right for your family, and more specifically, a cow milk-based formula from Holle, congratulations! The next question to ask is: Holle German or Dutch? This article will provide an in-depth comparison of both versions to ease your decision-making process.

Holle cow milk formula is renowned worldwide, which is why they offer a couple of versions of this bestseller tailored to different countries. This means, depending on whether you buy the Dutch or German Holle Cow, you’ll notice slightly different stages and packaging. While the differences are relatively minor, they could lead you to prefer one version over another.

Recently, the German version was tested by consumer reports and earned an award for top choice when it came to contaminant avoidance compared to 41 other formulas! The Dutch version was not tested, but it is made with the same standards as the German version; parents can trust that either way, Holle is a sound choice.

Holle formula is known for being clean, simple, and nutritionally complete while featuring premium organic and biodynamic ingredients. The German recipe is the original Holle cow milk formula that’s been beloved by several generations of families. This Holle Cow formula delivers a base of skimmed cow’s milk and is fortified with plant-based omega fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals.

Stages 1 and PRE are specifically designed to resemble breast milk and feature lactose-only carbohydrates. Starch and Maltodextrin are added to Stages 2 and up because they ensure a creamier formula that keeps babies satiated longer.

Your baby does not have specific feeding needs or sensitivities and enjoys the mild taste of cow’s milk
Your baby is already using probiotic supplements, since these healthy bacteria are not present in this formula range
You prioritize strict organic certification
You prefer to avoid fish oil

The German version of Holle Cow milk comes in five stages from Stage PRE up to Stage 4. Each formula is EU organic certified, but only Stages PRE to 3 are also Demeter biodynamic. This formula is made in Germany, the labelling is in German, and it is packaged in 600g boxes.

Holle Cow Dutch is one of the newer additions to the Holle family, but the basic recipe for both Holle Cow Dutch and German is the same. This version is made in Germany and has Dutch and French labelling. It is packaged in an 800g metal can, which provides more durability than the box used for the German version.

Holle Cow, Dutch, and German are both fantastic options for your little one, but something to consider when choosing is the amount of formula you need, especially if you are exclusively formula feeding. The Dutch version contains more formula powder than the German version. That being said, the German version may be more beneficial if your baby combination feeds.

One salient point is that the Dutch version of this cow’s milk formula comes in four stages, and Holle Dutch Stage 1-3 have three impressive organic certifications: EU, Demeter, and AB France! Here’s a brief overview of the stages:

is a lactose-only formulation with DHA and ARA. It’s a complete source of nutrition for the first 6 months of your newborn’s life.
is a follow-on formula to be fed alongside complementary foods from 6+ months.
is another follow-on formula to best support older weaning infants from 10+ months.
toddler formula is an optional stage that can provide nutritional assurance. It is the only formula that is not Demeter certified.

Now that you understand a bit more about Holle cow milk formula, let’s provide a brief summary of the similarities and differences.

Similarites

Holle Cow Dutch and German have the same basic formulation.
Both versions are organic and made in Germany.

Differences

Holle Cow German has an extra stage of infant formula called Stage PRE, which is very similar to Stage 1.
The type and size of the formula container and language on the labels are different for each country version.
The AB France organic certification is only present for the Dutch range of cow’s milk formulas.

If you hold dear organic standards, clean ingredients, and wholesome recipes, Holle may be your little one’s new bottle bestie! At Organic’s Best online shop, you can find the formulas we talked about today as well as other formula options Holle has to offer, like A2 Cow or Holle Goat.

Organic’s Best has been providing high-quality European organic baby formula to families since 2019. Their customer care team includes medical doctors who are always ready to assist you, answer your questions, and offer expert advice via live chat, email, or phone!

Not only does Organic’s Best have the most affordable bulk prices, but your orders are guaranteed to arrive quickly with insured express delivery. Reliably receive your formula in 2-5 business days from their climate-controlled facility, ensuring your baby’s nutrition is handled with care at every step. Visit Organic’s Best today to find all of your Holle formula needs!