Feeding your toddler right is one of the most important aspects of parenting. Though not always a required addition to a child’s diet, formula milk can compensate for nutritional deficiencies. In particular, Stage 4 formula milk is designed for preschoolers aged 3 years onwards and provides essential nutrients to support your child’s development and growth.
From this age onwards, children undergo rapid physical and cognitive development that needs to be supported by adequate nutritional intake. Therefore, most mothers will transition their child from infant formula to Stage 4 infant formula milk once the child has reached three years old.
A child’s nutritional requirements changes as he develops. We strongly advise you to use the stage of formula that corresponds to your baby’s age to ensure he gets all of the nutrients he needs to develop and flourish.g
But with so many options to choose from, how do you pick the best stage 4 formula for your toddler?
We’ve curated a list of the best stage 4 formula brands available in Singapore. These top formula milk have essential nutrients to support your tot’s overall development.
How is stage 4 formula milk different?
Stage 4 vs. earlier stages
The fundamental distinction between Stage 4 compared to earlier stages of formula milk is the milk protein balance. Whey and casein proteins are present in both formulations, although in different quantities. Whey proteins are those that remain liquid after milk has coagulated (curdled). Casein proteins curdle and do not remain liquid.
There is also an increase in calcium, iron, and healthy carbohydrates like starch to help wean babies off formula and introduce more solid foods later on.
Cow’s milk vs. stage 4
Cow’s milk is a traditional and cost-effective choice for toddlers. However, it is not suitable for children with allergies or intolerance to cow’s milk. It is also not ideal for overweight children or those at risk of being overweight due to family history. These toddlers may be better off drinking formula milk which is hypoallergenic and low-fat in nature.
How to choose the most suitable stage 4 infant formula milk?
Each formula for infant brand will have different formulations targeted towards meeting the nutritional needs of your child. Healthhub Singapore has laid out the recommended dietary allowance (RDA) for toddlers 3 to 5 years old.
To make this choice a little easier for you, we have summarised the dietary benefits of the major brands on the market.
Our top recommended stage 4 infant formula milk
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Best for…
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Brands formula for infant
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Stage 4 Formula Milk for Brain Development
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Similac Infant Formula Stage 4 Gain Kid Pre-school Milk Powder
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Affordable Stage 4 Formula Milk
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Dumex Dugro Stage 4 Growing Up Kid Milk Formula
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Stage 4 Formula Milk for Digestion
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Friso Gold 4
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Stage 4 Formula Milk for Growth
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Nestle NAN 4 Growing Up Milk
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Organic Stage 4 Formula Milk
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Nature One Dairy Organic Junior Milk Drink Step 4
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Best stage 4 infant formula in Singapore
Best Stage 4 Formula Milk for Brain Development
Similac Stage 4 formula milk is formulated to help support your toddler’s brain development with a uniquely designed EyeQ Plus nutrition system improved with natural Vitamin E, Lutein, and DHA, all supporting brain and eye development.
In addition, your child’s immunity is strengthened with Vitamin A, B6, B12, C, D, Copper, Folic Acid, Iron, Selenium, hydrolyzed, and Zinc, which supports the normal functioning of your child’s immune system.
Key product highlights:
- Comprehensive nutrition system for brain development.
- Strong immunity formulation.
- Suitable for vegans (unique vegan fat blend).
- Fewer air bubbles during milk prep.
Best Affordable Stage 4 Formula Milk
The new and improved Dumex Dugro Stage 4 formula milk is specially formulated to Singapore’s Recommended Dietary Allowances (RDA). It is the most affordable brand in the market.
It is sucrose-free and contains trademarked 360° Nutrition™, a system of essential nutrients to support your child’s all-rounded growth and development.
As such, it is a healthy choice for children. Sourced from Australia and New Zealand, each serving contains DHA, recommended vitamins and minerals such as Calcium, Iron, and Zinc for growth and development.
Key product highlights:
- Value for money.
- Prebiotics for a healthy digestive system.
- Healthier choice – 25% less sugar and fat.
- Balanced nutrition adhering to FDA guidelines.
Best Stage 4 Formula Milk for Digestion
Friso Gold 4 is made from high-quality milk from the Netherlands and created by Holland dairy science experts. It has the particular feature of small molecules with a soft structure.
When combined with LockNutriTM Technology, this locks in the milk protein structure in its natural form, making it easier to digest.
With no added sucrose and flavour, this growing-up milk has nutrients essential for your child’s development, such as prebiotics, probiotics, DHA, nucleotides, Vitamin D and Selenium.
Key product highlights:
- Easy Digestion. NOVAS Signature Milk has a small molecular structure when coupled with Friso’s LockNutri technology, which helps to make digestion easier for your little one.
Best Stage 4 Formula Milk for Growth
Nestle NAN Optipro 4 is a growth formula for children from 24 months, stimulating strong development. It has a unique LIPID SMART® fat blend with DHA & ARA precursors, which are essential building blocks for strong growth.
It’s also B-complete, meaning that it contains Vitamins B1, B2 & B3, which help release energy from proteins, fats, and carbohydrates.
The digestive system is also kept healthy with BIFIDUS BL Probiotics which protect against harmful bacteria, and DENTA PRO, which is naturally active Lactobacilli cultures.
Key product highlights:
- Unique DHA Lipid-smart fat blend for solid growth.
- 25% lower in sugar than regular growing-up milk, with no added sucrose.
- Naturally active Lactobacilli cultures aid digestion.
- Iron and zinc are fortified to support natural defences.
Best Organic Stage 4 Formula Milk
Made from 100% grass-fed cow’s milk, Nature One is an organic drink providing essential nutrients for physical and mental development. It contains lutein which promotes eye health, and omega 3 and 6 – the building blocks for brain and eye development.
Of course, it also improves a developing immune system through Prebiotic GOS, as well as Vitamins A, C, E, iron, and zinc to support your child’s natural defences. In addition, kids will receive a significant boost of energy via carbohydrates in the formulation and calcium to support strong bones and teeth.
Parents who are looking for organically-made formula milk should opt for Nature One Dairy Organic Junior Milk.
Key product highlights:
- Protein sourced from natural cow’s milk sourced from a certified manufacturer in Australia.
- Halal certified.
- Prebiotic GOS and FOS benefit bowel function, prevent constipation and improve mineral absorption.
Price Comparison
Here’s a price comparison of the best stage 4 infant formula on the market for your quick reference:
Editor’s Note: Each item and price is up to date at the time of publication. However, an item may be sold out or the price may be different at a later date.
By this age, feeding your child is much easier because you can also allow them to eat on their own. Check out: Teach Babies to Eat by Themselves with the Best Baby Spoon and Fork Items
