When comparing infant formulas, prebiotics and probiotics are among the ingredient features many parents look for. Some European organic formulas include these ingredients as part of their standard formulation; others do not. This guide explains what prebiotics and probiotics are, which formulas include them, and how to compare options with confidence.
This article is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult your pediatrician before choosing or switching formula, especially if your baby has allergies, digestive concerns, or any medical condition. Individual responses to formula ingredients vary.
What Are Prebiotics and Probiotics in Baby Formula?
Prebiotics
Prebiotics are non-digestible fibers included in some infant formulas. The most common types found in formula are GOS (galacto-oligosaccharides) and FOS (fructo-oligosaccharides). Breast milk naturally contains oligosaccharides (HMOs), and some formula manufacturers include GOS, FOS, or HMOs as formulation features. Whether and how these ingredients affect individual babies varies.
Probiotics
Probiotics are live microorganisms included in some infant formulas. The strains most commonly added to EU organic infant formula include:
- Lactobacillus fermentum CECT5716 (used in HiPP Combiotic formulas)
- Bifidobacterium longum
- Bifidobacterium breve
Different strains have different characteristics. When comparing formulas, look for the full strain name (genus + species + strain code) and the CFU count (colony-forming units) rather than a generic “probiotic blend” without further detail.
Synbiotic Formulas
When a formula includes both prebiotics and probiotics, it is sometimes described as a synbiotic formulation. HiPP Combiotic is an example of this approach — it includes both GOS prebiotics and L. fermentum CECT5716 as standard ingredients across its range. Browse the full HiPP Combiotic Formula range for available stages and variants.
🌿 Not sure which formula fits your baby? Answer a few simple questions and get a personalized recommendation. Use our Formula Finder →
Which Baby Formulas Include Prebiotics and Probiotics?
Not all organic formulas include prebiotics or probiotics. Here is a comparison of the main EU organic options available, organized by their prebiotic and probiotic content:
| Formula | Stages | Prebiotics | Probiotics | Certification | Palm Oil | Notable Feature |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| HiPP Combiotic (German) | PRE, 1, 2, 3 | GOS | L. fermentum CECT5716 | EU Organic | No | Synbiotic formulation; PRE stage available |
| HiPP Combiotic (Dutch) | PRE, 1, 2, 3 | GOS | L. fermentum CECT5716 | EU Organic | No | 800g tin; synbiotic formulation |
| HiPP Combiotic (UK) | 1, 2, 3 | GOS | L. fermentum CECT5716 | EU Organic + Soil Association | No | English label; Soil Association certified |
| HiPP Combiotic HA | PRE, 1, 2 | GOS | None | EU Organic | No | Partially hydrolyzed protein; discuss with pediatrician |
| Kendamil Organic | 1, 2, 3 | HMO prebiotics | None | EU Organic / Soil Association | No | HMO prebiotics; whole milk fat; UK-made |
| Holle Cow | PRE, 1, 2, 3 | None | None | Demeter biodynamic | Yes | Demeter certified; simple ingredient list |
| Holle Goat | 1, 2, 3 | None | None | EU Organic | No | Goat milk protein; clean label |
| HiPP Goat | 1, 2, 3 | GOS | None | EU Organic | No | Goat milk protein; includes GOS prebiotics |
Always read the current product label, as formulations may be updated by the manufacturer. This table is for general comparison purposes only. Consult your pediatrician for guidance on formula choice.
How to Read a Formula Label for Prebiotics and Probiotics
Prebiotics — Look For:
- GOS (galacto-oligosaccharides) — derived from lactose; included in HiPP Combiotic formulas
- FOS (fructo-oligosaccharides) — plant-derived; sometimes paired with GOS
- HMOs (human milk oligosaccharides) — included in Kendamil Organic
- The ratio and quantity are not always listed; check the full ingredient list
Probiotics — Look For:
- The full strain name (genus + species + strain code), e.g., Lactobacillus fermentum CECT5716
- CFU count (colony-forming units) — typically listed per 100ml or per serving
- Avoid vague terms like “probiotic blend” without strain identification
What to Note:
- Not all formulas that include these ingredients will produce the same results for every baby
- A formula without prebiotics or probiotics is not necessarily inferior — Holle Cow, for example, is Demeter biodynamic certified and widely trusted despite not including these ingredients
- If you’re choosing a formula specifically for a baby with digestive concerns, always consult your pediatrician first
EU Organic vs. Conventional Formula: Prebiotic and Probiotic Inclusion
| Feature | EU Organic Formula | Conventional US Formula |
|---|---|---|
| Prebiotic inclusion | GOS/FOS standard in many brands | Varies; not always included |
| Probiotic strains | Specific strains listed (e.g., L. fermentum CECT5716) | Less consistent; brand-dependent |
| Organic certification | EU Organic (Demeter, Bioland, or equivalent) | USDA Organic (different standards) |
| Primary carbohydrate | Lactose (corn syrup not permitted) | Lactose or corn syrup solids |
| Regulatory body | EFSA (European Food Safety Authority) | FDA |
When to Talk to Your Pediatrician Before Switching Formula
- Your baby has a confirmed or suspected cow’s milk protein allergy (CMPA)
- Your baby is premature or low birth weight
- Your baby has a metabolic or digestive condition requiring a specialized formula
- Your baby is currently on medication
- You’re seeing significant changes in growth, stool, or feeding behavior
- You’re considering switching from a hypoallergenic or amino acid-based formula
Shop Trusted European Formula Options
- HiPP Combiotic Formula — EU organic, includes GOS prebiotics and L. fermentum probiotics
- HiPP Dutch Combiotic Formula — 800g tin; synbiotic formulation
- Holle Cow Formula — Demeter biodynamic; no prebiotics or probiotics added
- Goat Milk Formula — EU organic goat milk options
- Formula Finder — personalized recommendation by age and needs
- Best Sellers — popular European organic formula options trusted by parents
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between prebiotics and probiotics in baby formula?
Prebiotics are non-digestible fibers (such as GOS or FOS) included in some formulas as an ingredient feature. Probiotics are live microorganisms (such as L. fermentum CECT5716) included in others. Some formulas include both; others include neither. Whether and how these ingredients affect individual babies varies — consult your pediatrician if you have specific concerns.
Is baby formula with probiotics safe for newborns?
EU-regulated formulas containing probiotics are produced under strict EFSA safety standards and are formulated for use from birth in healthy term infants. If your baby was born prematurely or has a health condition, consult your pediatrician before introducing any formula, including those with probiotic ingredients.
Which probiotic strains are found in EU organic infant formula?
The most commonly included strain in EU organic formula is Lactobacillus fermentum CECT5716, used in HiPP Combiotic formulas. When comparing formulas, look for the full strain name and CFU count rather than a generic “probiotic blend” without further detail.
Do all European organic formulas include prebiotics and probiotics?
No. HiPP Combiotic formulas include both GOS prebiotics and L. fermentum probiotics. Kendamil Organic includes HMO prebiotics but no probiotics. Holle Cow and Lebenswert do not include added prebiotics or probiotics. A formula without these ingredients is not necessarily inferior — it reflects a different formulation philosophy.
Can I switch my baby to a formula with probiotics on my own?
For healthy term infants, switching formula is generally a parental decision. A gradual transition over 5–7 days is typically recommended. If your baby has allergies, a medical condition, or is on a specialized formula, always consult your pediatrician before making any change.
What does GOS mean on a formula label?
GOS stands for galacto-oligosaccharides, a type of prebiotic fiber derived from lactose. It is one of the most common prebiotics included in EU organic infant formula, found in HiPP Combiotic and HiPP Goat formulas among others.
Is Kendamil a good option if I want prebiotics but not probiotics?
Yes. Kendamil Organic includes HMO (human milk oligosaccharide) prebiotics but does not include added probiotic cultures. It is EU Organic and Soil Association certified, made in the UK with whole milk fat and no palm oil.
Last reviewed: May 2026. This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult your pediatrician before choosing or switching formula.