Complete Stage-by-Stage Guide
Stage PRE — From Birth
Holle PRE is formulated for newborns from birth as a complete breast milk supplement or substitute. It uses lactose as the sole carbohydrate — no starch, no maltodextrin — making it the gentlest entry point in the Holle cow milk range. Made with Demeter biodynamic certified milk, it delivers Holle's clean, minimal ingredient philosophy from day one. A strong choice for parents who want the simplest possible formula with the highest farming standard available.
Stage 1 — From Birth
Holle Stage 1 is Holle's standard from-birth infant formula — suitable as a complete breast milk substitute or supplement. Like PRE, it's made with Demeter biodynamic certified cow milk and follows Holle's minimal ingredient approach. Stage 1 is the most widely used starting point in the Holle cow milk range, and can be used through the first year without needing to switch unless your baby's needs change.
Stage 2 — From 6 Months
Holle Stage 2 supports babies from 6 months as solid foods begin complementing formula feeds. The Demeter biodynamic certification and minimal ingredient philosophy continue through Stage 2, with the nutritional profile adjusted for the weaning phase — including optimized iron levels to support the increased demands of a growing, increasingly active baby.
Stage 3 — From 10 Months
Holle Stage 3 is intended for babies from 10 months, fitting babies who are already eating a more varied diet but still rely on formula as part of their feeding routine. It maintains Holle's clean formulation approach while providing the nutritional support appropriate for this active developmental phase.
Stage 4 — From 12 Months
Holle Stage 4 is a growing-up milk for toddlers from 12 months — one of the few formula brands that extends its range this far. It's used as part of a mixed diet, often chosen by parents who want to continue with Holle beyond infancy without switching to a lower-quality standard toddler milk.
Why Families Choose Holle Cow Formula
Holle's defining advantage is its Demeter biodynamic certification — the most rigorous farming standard in the world, requiring farms to operate as self-sustaining ecosystems with strict animal welfare, soil health, and biodiversity requirements. This goes significantly beyond standard EU organic certification. For families who prioritize farming provenance and ingredient simplicity above all, Holle Cow is the benchmark choice in European organic infant nutrition. The ingredient list is short by design — not by compromise.
Stage PRE vs Stage 1 — Which to Start With?
Both Holle PRE and Holle Stage 1 are suitable from birth and can be used as a complete breast milk substitute. PRE is generally viewed as the simpler entry option — lactose-only, no starch — while Stage 1 is Holle's standard from-birth infant formula. If your baby is thriving on one, there is usually no reason to switch early without a feeding reason or pediatric guidance.
