ByHeart Formula Review | The Picky Eater

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My ByHeart Formula review takes a deep dive into this US brand that is truly one-of-a-kind. In this article, I will share what makes ByHeart baby formula stand out, how it compares to other trusted formulas, and what parents have to say. I hope you find this thorough breakdown helpful in determining if this formula is the best for your baby!

Whether you’re a new parent or have been around the block, feeding your baby is often an overwhelming and challenging topic. While breastfeeding is often seen as the go-to and most natural choice, parents have a choice about whether to breastfeed or not. Breastfeeding comes with its own set of challenges, both physically and mentally, and things like latching issues, low milk supply, and birth recoveries make it even harder.

If you’re thinking about introducing formula to your baby or switching your older infant to formula, that’s totally okay! I believe that making sure your baby is well-fed is what matters most, regardless of the method.

Even with support from lactation consultants and others, a large percentage of moms eventually turn to formula for some part of their baby’s feeding journey. Personally, breastfeeding was one of the toughest parts of being a new mom for me. When my daughter was eight months old, I made the decision to switch her to formula.

When I made that choice, I did a ton of research online, talked to doctors, reached out to other moms and friends, and learned a lot about the formula industry to find the best option for my daughter. I’ve continued to stay up to date on formula trends and top brands, like ByHeart, hoping to make the research process easier for other parents.

For new moms worried about their baby’s health as well as their own mental and emotional well-being, finding a formula brand you can trust is really important. I get it, because I’ve been there!

To make your life easier and ease your mind, I have developed a working list of the best organic baby formulas that meet the highest standards and guidelines.

And good news, ByHeart is one of the best formulas, it is made with organic grass-fed whole milk and certified clean ingredients. While they may be considered a newer brand, they’ve really impressed me with their certified-clean ingredients and dedication to making the best formula possible to meet babies’ nutrition needs. 

In this ByHeart Infant Formula review, I’ll give you all the details you need to decide if it’s the right fit for you and your baby. I will go over potential drawbacks to consider, answer common questions, and more. Keep reading to learn about what makes ByHeart formula so special! 

But First, A Disclaimer

As a board-certified health coach and certified nutritionist, I support products and ingredients that are rooted in science and are evidence-based. Using my background in nutrition, along with extensive research (see below for details), consultations with experts, and my own personal experience giving my two kids formula, I have reviewed ByHeart’s Formula and recommend it highly. 

I may receive a commission (at no extra expense to you) if you purchase through the links provided. I only recommend brands that I have evaluated, believe are the highest quality, would give to my own two children, and that can do the most to help you and your family. By purchasing any of these products from the links below, you help keep this blog running, so thanks for your support!

Keep in mind that every baby & situation is different, so please consult with your pediatrician first, especially when starting or switching to a new formula. My recommendations are not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Never disregard or delay in seeking professional medical advice because of something you read here!

The Verdict: ByHeart Formula Is The Best Whole Milk Infant Formula Made In The US*

If you’ve been wondering, “Is ByHeart formula good?,” I am here to say YES! When it comes to the best infant formula made in the US with certified-clean ingredients, ByHeart is definitely one of my top choices! Many American baby formulas contain corn syrup, hexane-derived DHA, soy, and GMOs, but ByHeart baby formula is setting a higher standard! Their Whole Nutrition Infant Formula has received the Clean Label Project Purity Award, and organic, grass-fed whole milk and lactose are the first ingredients!

You can get ByHeart Formula on their website with a one-time purchase or subscribe & save option (more on this below). It is also available at Thrive Market, Publix, or Target. As you will see in this ByHeart review, there are so many reasons to love this US-made* infant formula with certified-clean ingredients.

*with globally sourced ingredients. 

Shop ByHeart Infant Formula

• Made with organic grass fed whole milk
• Clean baby formula ingredients
• Clean Label Project Purity Award.
• Whey-to-casein ratio that mimics breast milk
• Lactose is the primary carbohydrate source
• Contains prebiotics for gut health

What Is ByHeart Formula?

ByHeart Whole Nutrition Infant Formula is a milk based powder formula made with organic, grass-fed whole milk, and is intended for healthy, full-term babies 0-12 months of age.

The brand’s story begins back in 2016 as they started to recruit pediatric researchers, breast milk scientists, and world-class doctors to help build a new recipe from scratch. In 2017, they dove into research and development, intentionally raising standards on sourcing, ingredient integrity, and quality testing, and began the manufacturing process. They then went on to do a clinical trial (which I will expand upon later), were given the first-ever Clean Label Project Certification for a US infant formula (with globally sourced ingredients), and officially launched after registering with the FDA!

ByHeart works only with suppliers that they know and trust, and do not believe in taking any short cuts. The formula is certified pesticide free through the Clean Label Project and the company owns end-to-end manufacturing so they can have full control over the high quality and strict standards that they set. 

One look at ByHeart formula ingredients, and you’ll know that you can feel good about feeding it to your little one! Made with organic, grass-fed whole milk and non-GMO ingredients, this baby formula might be a newer player in the American market but definitely holds its own.

This amazing formula includes a patented protein blend that contains proteins alpha-lac and lactoferrin, the two most abundant proteins found in breast milk, and alpha-lac is at the same levels as breast milk. The formula contains lactose as the primary carbohydrate source and adds in gut healthy prebiotic fiber.

Most importantly, ByHeart doesn’t contain any palm oil, maltodextrin, gluten, or artificial growth hormones. (Note: No significant difference has been shown between milk derived from rbST-treated and non-rbST-treated cows).

Instead, it is made with only certified-clean ingredients that you’ll want when choosing an infant formula:

Organic Grass-Fed Whole Milk

ByHeart formula is made with organic, grass-fed whole milk, and they are the only American-made* baby formula to do so (most formula companies use skim milk). When compared to the vegetable oils that make up some formulas, whole milk has more fatty acids like palmitic acid that are more easily absorbed when in certain positions. 

Patented Protein Blend

ByHeart is the only American-made* baby formula company to add both alpha-lac and lactoferrin as separate ingredients, the two most abundant proteins found in breast milk. The formula also uses lactose as its primary carbohydrate, rather than maltodextrin or corn syrup like other formula brands. 

DHA & ARA Omega-3’s & Healthy Fats

ByHeart baby formula includes the Omega-3 fatty acid DHA and the Omega-6 fatty acid ARA. Their DHA is sourced from the algae plant schizochytrium sp. oil. They do not use hexane-extracted DHA. A combination of organic high oleic sunflower oil, organic low erucic rapeseed oil, organic coconut oil, and organic sunflower oil make up the rest of the fat content of this infant formula in addition to their organic, grass-fed whole milk. As noted above, the formula is made without any palm oil or soy oil!

Key Nutrients

ByHeart’s formula includes added iron, which is important in brain development (source). Additionally, you will find other essential vitamins and minerals such as Vitamin A, Vitamin D, Vitamin B6, Vitamin B12, calcium, and magnesium. The formula also includes a lactose-derived, prebiotic GOS (galacto-oligosaccharide), which helps support a healthy gut microbiome (source).

Check out ByHeart’s full ingredient list for complete formula nutrition facts and ingredients.

Here is what really sets ByHeart Whole Nutrition Infant Formula apart from the rest:

1. Clinically Proven Benefits

ByHeart ran the largest clinical trial by a new infant formula brand in 25 years! The trial included 311 babies over a 6 month time period. They are also the only new brand to add a comparison to breast milk, which I think is very valuable and important when trying to get as close to breast milk as possible—they were the first new infant formula brand to do this! The formula is clinically proven** for easier digestion, less spit up, softer poops, enhanced nutrient absorption, and more efficient weight gain. At 4 months of age, they also found there to be longer stretches between nighttime feeds.

**vs. a leading infant formula

2. Clean Label Project’s First 1,000 Day Promise Certification

ByHeart is the only US-made* infant formula to receive Clean Label Project’s First 1,000 Day Promise Certification! This is their highest tier, achieved thanks to rigorous third-party contaminant testing that covers 700 contaminants (versus the required 400). You know you are getting the highest quality of ingredients and nutrition when you choose ByHeart baby formula.

*with globally sourced ingredients 

3. Gentle On Tummies 

The formula uses a combination of whole and partially broken down proteins. The broken down proteins are gentler on tummies, while the whole proteins may have  added benefits. They also add in prebiotic GOS and the alpha-lac protein at breast milk levels, shown to support digestion (source). Their formula is clinically proven (source) and easy to digest!

4. Lactose Is The Primary Carbohydrate

ByHeart infant formula is made with lactose, which is the naturally occurring sugar in both breast milk and cow’s milk. You won’t find any added sugars or artificial sweeteners in this formula like corn syrup, sugar solids, or maltodextrin.

ByHeart Whole Nutrition Infant formula uses an algae-based DHA, without hexane for extraction. DHA Omega-3 is a key nutrient that helps support the growth and development of the brain in infants (source).

6. Small Batch Blending

They prioritize the integrity of the healthy fats in their formula by using a small batch process. Exposing the fats at a high heat for an extended duration of time can impact color of the formula, which is not ideal. 

7. Easy To Try Out With Their ByHeart Promise

You can start out with a one-time purchase before committing to a subscription (and you can continue with one-time purchases every time if preferred). If you are not happy with the product you can receive a refund on your first order thanks to their ByHeart Promise!

Drawbacks Of ByHeart Infant Formula

While there are so many amazing things that stand out about ByHeart, there are a few drawbacks I want to share with you. I do believe the pros outweigh the cons overall, but let’s take a look at some areas that could be improved:

• Does not include added probiotics. While the formula does have a prebiotic, there are no added probiotics. However, you can talk to your doctor about supplementing with an infant probiotic if needed.
• On the pricier side. For an American-made formula, it is on the higher end for cost. However, it is a larger can than some others on the market and obviously a higher-quality option. It comes in at $1.75/oz.
• Is not a hypoallergenic formula. While it is made without allergens like soy protein, it is made with cow’s milk (like many formulas). If your baby has known food allergies, this may not be a good option for you.
• Only one stage. ByHeart has just one stage for ages 0 to 12 months. While this is common for US formulas to have one stage, there are many European options that offer different stages of formula with subtle changes to ingredient amounts. 
• Doesn’t have the official USDA Organic Certification: While ByHeart may not have the official USDA Organic Certification, their ingredients are certified-clean with highest quality nutrition and screened for over 700 contaminants. 

How Does It Work?

Now that you know everything about ByHeart Formula and what makes it stand out amongst the rest, I am going to break down how and where to purchase this formula, how to mix it, and cost details.

How Does The ByHeart Subscription Model Work?

You can purchase ByHeart Infant Formula on their website as a one-time transaction, or you can sign up for their subscription service. When placing a subscription order, you have the option to purchase 4, 6, 8 or 12 cans.

With the Subscribe & Save service you save $3 per can, receive dedicated Sleepless Squad support, and can cancel or pause your plan at any time. They offer free shipping and a risk-free guarantee on your first order.

The subscription option can be a great choice for busy parents, ensuring you always have enough formula on hand and reducing the list of things you have to remember to do. If you have questions or concerns, reach out to their Sleepless Squad using their website chat box, text or call at 1-833-4BYHEART, or email at hello@byheart.com. 

Can You Purchase ByHeart Formula In Stores?

Yes! ByHeart formula is available to purchase at Target and Publix. I love that this makes it more accessible if you happen to run out of formula and need it quickly!

How To Mix ByHeart Formula

Now let’s get into ByHeart formula preparation. While ​​a few parents reported that the formula can be difficult to mix, most seem to have no issues when following the directions for preparation and use. Here are the ByHeart formula mixing instructions:

1. Sterilize the bottle and utensils. Your doctor can advise if sterilizing water is necessary. Wash hands thoroughly before preparing the formula.

2. Pour the desired amount of water in a bottle. Add powder according to the Mixing Guide. Use only the scoop provided. Store dry scoop underneath the cap.

3. Cap bottle and SHAKE WELL. Feed immediately. Once feeding begins, use formula within 1 hour or discard.

What Does It Cost?

At the time of this article’s publication, ByHeart is sold on their website for $42 per 24 oz can ($1.75/oz), or $39 per 24 oz can when you subscribe. It goes for $38.99 for the same size can on Thrive Market.

Every 680g can of the formula mixes up to around forty to forty-four 4-fl oz sized bottles. 

What Do Parents Say About ByHeart Formula?

Overall, parents seem to be very happy with their experience using ByHeart formula! Check out some of the recent ByHeart baby formula reviews from verified customers of the brand, shared on the ByHeart Website: 

Easy Transition: “I recently finished my breastfeeding journey and have switched my baby to ByHeart. We did a gradual switch to get her used to the taste, but now that she is fully on formula we are having no issues. She looks forward to feeds, no spit-up, good digestion! Gaining weight and growing.” – Lucie

Great For Combo Feeding: “As a mom who is doing a bit of both (formula and breastmilk), I find that this is an easy formula for my son to transition to and from. Easy on the tummy. No spit up. Leaves him full and comfortable. Happy Baby, Happy Mommy!” – Isabella

No Added Junk: “I’m so thankful I found this product online. ByHeart doesn’t have junk in it. I feel better formula feeding now because of it.” – Aria

Gives Peace of Mind: “I chose ByHeart because I feel good about the ingredients that are (and aren’t) in it. It gives me peace knowing I’m feeding her the best I have to offer.” – Kamri

Great Customer Service: “We subscribed for a few months before he switched fully to solids, and interacted with the By Heart team on a few of the orders – really thankful that they always had quick answers to our questions and great customer service!” – Josh

How Does ByHeart Compare To Other Formula Brands?

ByHeart Formula vs. HiPP Formula

ByHeart is American made (with globally-sourced ingredients) and HiPP is European, with manufacturers in the Netherlands and Germany. Both brands of formula are made with organic whole milk, have high-quality ingredients, and contain DHA & ARA. You won’t find any added sugar, corn syrup, or other sugar solids in either of these formulas!

Here are the high-level differences between ByHeart and HiPP:

• ByHeart is made in the US with globally sourced ingredients, HiPP is made in Europe
• ByHeart has one stage of formula for babies 0-12 months of age, and depending on the country of origin HiPP has up to 4 stages
• ByHeart is made with whole milk, HiPP is made with skim milk
• ByHeart is FDA regulated, HiPP is regulated by the European Commission
• ByHeart has no added probiotics, HiPP does have probiotics
• ByHeart has no palm oil, HiPP contains palm oil

ByHeart vs. Bobbie

Both Bobbie and ByHeart are manufactured in the US and focus on promoting shame-free feeding journeys for all babies and their parents. Each of their formulas are non-GMO, certified pesticide-free, made with organic grass-fed milk, and are made without corn syrup, gluten, hexane-extracted DHA, and palm oil. They are also both Clean Label Project Purity Award winners and are known to be good for easy digestion.

Bobbie differs from ByHeart in that it contains organic nonfat milk. Since the formula is made without whole milk (like ByHeart), Bobbie uses more vegetable oils to create a nutritionally complete infant formula that meets FDA standards. These added vegetable oils aren’t harmful, but formulas made with whole milk do have more milk fat itself, as breast milk does.

ByHeart vs. Similac

ByHeart and Similac are both American-made formulas. ByHeart is made with milk from grass-fed cows and is non-GMO. ByHeart also has no palm oil, syrup solids or added sugar, and lactose is the primary carbohydrate. Similac has some formulas made with milk from grass-fed cows and some non-GMO options. Not all of Similac’s formulas has lactose as the primary carbohydrate (Similac also uses maltodextrin in some formulas).

With Similac you are more likely to find nonfat milk and soy in their ingredient list, while ByHeart contains whole milk and no soy. Similac does have organic formula options in their product line but they do not use whole milk. 

ByHeart vs. Enfamil

ByHeart and Enfamil both contain DHA and stay away from added sugars. Here are some of the main differences between the two brands:

• Enfamil is well established and has a large variety of formulas to meet your specific needs. ByHeart only has one, all-in-one infant formula and is considered a newer brand.
• Enfamil contains palm oil, but ByHeart does not.
• Enfamil contains maltodextrin, ByHeart does not.
• Enfamil organic has a 20:80 whey-to-casein ratio, while ByHeart has a 80:20 whey-to-casein ratio that mirrors colostrum and early breast milk.

ByHeart vs. Kendamil

Even though Kendamil is made in the UK, both brands meet FDA requirements. Both brands use grass-fed whole milk and include DHA, while avoiding palm oil, sugar, and syrup solids.

But only one Kendamil product includes added alpha-lactalbumin, and neither of their US products add lactoferrin, which ByHeart does have. Kendamil only includes whole proteins, while ByHeart includes a combination of whole and broken down proteins for easy digestion. Kendamil has two formulas sold in the US – one that’s certified Organic by the Soil Association, and one that’s not. ByHeart is not organic.

ByHeart Formula FAQs

Final Thoughts

I hope this ByHeart baby formula review has been a helpful tool for you on your journey to find the right choice for your little one! I am always staying updated with the best formulas on the market, and hope that my knowledge and experience can provide the insight you’ve been looking for!

Overall, I find ByHeart to be one of the best US formulas and I am so happy that they use whole milk. I really appreciate their high standards, which are backed by their clinical testing and Clean Label Project Purity Award. With small batch manufacturing and patented protein blend, they really are unlike anything else on the market today. 

Of course, there are some drawbacks you might consider but there is so much to love about ByHeart! I think ByHeart infant formula is a solid choice for healthy, full-term babies and parents say it is a great formula to transition with or combo feed. Plus, you really have nothing to lose since they offer a money-back guarantee on first time purchases!

If you have more questions about ByHeart, or want to share your personal experience with this formula, feel free to comment below or send me a message. I am happy to help and look forward to reading your comments!

More Helpful Baby Formula Guides!