Stage 1

Stage 1 formula is designed for babies from birth and can be used as a complete breast milk substitute or supplement throughout the first year. It's the most widely used starting formula in the European organic system — available from HiPP, Holle, and Lebenswert, each with their own approach to ingredients and nutrition.

Unlike Stage PRE, Stage 1 may include small amounts of starch depending on the brand and version — which can help some babies feel fuller between feeds. This collection lets you compare Stage 1 options across cow milk, goat milk, and hypoallergenic ranges in one place.

Choosing between Stage PRE and Stage 1? Use our formula finder to compare by brand, milk type, and ingredient profile — or visit shop by stage for a full feeding stage overview.

  • Stage 1 formula from birth — suitable as sole nutrition or alongside breastfeeding
  • Available in cow milk, goat milk, and hypoallergenic (HA) versions
  • Trusted European brands: HiPP, Holle, Lebenswert
  • Can be used through the first year — no need to switch unless your baby's needs change
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7 products

Holle Goat Formula Stage 1 (400g)
Holle Goat Formula Stage 1 (400g)
Holle

Holle Goat Formula Stage 1 (400g)

From $32.99 From $32.99
HiPP Combiotic Formula Stage 1 (600g)
HiPP Combiotic Formula Stage 1 (600g)
HiPP

HiPP Combiotic Formula Stage 1 (600g)

From $27.99 From $27.99
HiPP HA Formula Stage 1 (600g)
HiPP HA Formula Stage 1 (600g)
Organic Baby Formula Shop

HiPP HA Formula Stage 1 (600g)

From $29.49 From $29.49
Holle Cow Formula Stage 1 (400g)
Holle Cow Formula Stage 1 (400g)
Holle

Holle Cow Formula Stage 1 (400g)

From $25.99 From $25.99
Lebenswert Formula Stage 1 (500g)
Lebenswert Formula Stage 1 (500g)
Lebenswert

Lebenswert Formula Stage 1 (500g)

From $26.99 From $26.99
HiPP Dutch Combiotic Formula Stage 1 (800g)
HiPP Dutch Combiotic Formula Stage 1 (800g)
HiPP

HiPP Dutch Combiotic Formula Stage 1 (800g)

From $49.99 From $49.99
Sale up to 42%
Holle A2 Formula Stage 1 (400g)
Holle A2 Formula Stage 1 (400g)
Holle

Holle A2 Formula Stage 1 (400g)

From $18.99 From $18.99 $32.99

Compare Stage 1 Formula by Brand, Milk Type, and Ingredient Profile

Stage 1 Formula by Brand — Key Differences

HiPP Dutch Stage 1

HiPP Dutch Stage 1 is lactose-only, starch-free, and includes the Combiotic blend of GOS prebiotics and live Lactobacillus fermentum probiotic cultures. It's one of the most popular Stage 1 options globally — valued for its clean carbohydrate profile, gut-supportive formulation, and strict organic sourcing. Rated 4.76/5 by verified parents.

Holle Stage 1

Holle Stage 1 is made with Demeter biodynamic certified cow milk — the most rigorous farming standard available. It follows Holle's minimal ingredient philosophy: clean label, no unnecessary additives, straightforward stage structure. A benchmark choice for families who prioritize farming provenance and ingredient simplicity.

Lebenswert Stage 1

Lebenswert Stage 1 is produced by Holle and carries Bioland organic certification — one of Germany's most rigorous organic standards. It's built on a philosophy of radical simplicity: the fewest possible ingredients, all certified organic, all traceable. A strong choice for parents who want a clean-label European formula without the premium price of more feature-rich alternatives.

Stage 1 vs Stage PRE — Which Should You Start With?

Both Stage PRE and Stage 1 are suitable from birth. Stage PRE uses lactose as its sole carbohydrate — no starch — making it the closest to breast milk in carbohydrate composition. Stage 1 may include small amounts of starch depending on the brand, which can help some babies feel fuller between feeds. For most newborns, either works well. Visit our stage guide for a full breakdown of each feeding phase.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Stage 1 formula and when is it used?

Stage 1 formula is designed for babies from birth and can be used as a complete breast milk substitute or supplement throughout the first year. It's the most widely used starting formula in the European organic system — available from HiPP, Holle, Lebenswert, and Kendamil, each with their own approach to ingredients and nutrition. Unlike Stage PRE, Stage 1 may include small amounts of starch depending on the brand and version.

Which Stage 1 formula is best for sensitive digestion?

For babies with sensitive digestion, the most commonly recommended Stage 1 options are HiPP Dutch (lactose-only, with Combiotic probiotic support), Kendamil Goat (whole goat milk, A2-dominant protein, softer curd formation), and Holle (minimal ingredients, Demeter biodynamic certified). The right choice depends on your baby's specific sensitivity and your family's priorities. Our formula finder can help you compare by milk type and ingredient profile.

Can I use Stage 1 formula beyond 6 months?

Yes. Stage 1 formula can safely be used beyond 6 months if your baby is thriving on it. There is no requirement to switch to Stage 2 at 6 months — Stage 2 is designed to complement weaning, but Stage 1 remains nutritionally complete throughout the first year. Follow your baby's cues and your pediatrician's guidance.

What is the difference between cow milk and goat milk Stage 1 formula?

Cow milk Stage 1 formula is the most widely used option and is suitable for the majority of babies. Goat milk Stage 1 — available from Kendamil Goat and Holle Goat — uses a naturally A2-dominant protein structure and forms a softer curd in the stomach, which many parents find gentler for sensitive digestion. Goat milk formula is not suitable for babies with confirmed cow's milk protein allergy (CMPA) due to cross-reactivity.