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Average baby food cost per month


Budgeting for New Baby: Ongoing & One-Time Expenses

The arrival of a new baby can be both exciting and financially overwhelming. A tiny new baby can mean big changes and major expenses for new parents. How much money can you expect to spend on your little one in the first year? What financial tools should you consider creating? Here we'll show you how to financially prepare for your family's newest addition before they arrive.

Key Takeaways

  • One of the largest expenses for new parents can be the delivery—the cost of which depends on the location and health insurance policy.
  • One-time costs often include travel, home needs, and nursing/feeding.
  • Other things to consider include the cost of child care and savings plans.
  • It's important to have an emergency fund if one parent decides to stay home.

One-Time Expenses

In this scenario, we look at the first baby. That means starting from scratch in many areas such as furniture, strollers, and cribs. There is, of course, also the one-time medical expense of delivering a baby in the United States. As we'll see, this expense is by far the hardest to pin down in any meaningful way.

Medical Bills

In the U.S., the average new parent with insurance coverage can expect to pay almost $14,000 for their labor and delivery, according to a 2020 research article published by the Healthcare Cost Institute. Vaginal deliveries can cost from $7,000 in Arkansas to $17,000 in New York. Interestingly, out-of-pocket costs also exhibited a wide range, from $1,000 in D.C. to $2,400 in South Carolina. (2017 was the most recent year for which data was available.)

It is important to keep in mind that the cost of routine birthing care is highly variable based on your location and your insurance coverage. Review your policy to find out what your out-of-pocket costs are for prenatal care, hospital stay, tests, and postpartum care. Unfortunately, it's nearly impossible to make an accurate prediction about how much you'll pay without reviewing your health coverage.

Your insurance policy and location are important factors when determining how much the delivery of a baby will cost.

Baby Stuff

The one-time purchases for babies are as variable as the medical costs above, but for different reasons. This category can go up exponentially depending on the wants of the parent. For example:

  • Travel Needs: To get out and about you will most likely want to purchase a stroller, an infant car seat (required by law), a baby carrier, and a diaper bag. If you plan on being out a lot, a portable playpen and/or bassinet may make sense. Like many of the things on this list, there is a wide range of costs. Buying an adapter, snuggle bags, and another option for some brands of strollers can be a $1,000 price tag without taking in the cost of the stroller itself. On the other end of that range, a seat and stroller combo can still be purchased new for under $150, and used equipment or hand-me-downs can fill in for all the others. It is worth noting that, at the very least, it is worth buying a new infant car seat. There is no foolproof way to ensure a used one hasn't been compromised in a previous accident or through hard use.
  • Home Needs: To keep your child occupied, you may want to consider a portable swing, bouncy seat, play mat, and/or jump seat. You may also want to have a crib and/or bassinet, crib mattress, basic bedding with blankets, changing table, small dresser, rocking chair, monitor, and a diaper pail. Again, this is an area where personal preference dictates cost. Unlike car seats, everything is for use at home, meaning that you can buy it used or even acquire it through one of the many share and swap groups you'll find online.
  • Nursing and Feeding: Feeding costs for your new infant do, of course, vary like everything else based on your particular situation. A birthing parent who is able to stay at home and has no issues breastfeeding around the clock will see very minimal costs for months before a high chair and dishes are required. In that situation, some things like a breastfeeding pillow, burp cloths, or even a cape are more than enough. If the parent will be storing breast milk for use, then items like bottles, nipples, cleaning equipment, and a single or dual breast pump come into play and your budget will increase. If breastfeeding isn't possible, formula feeding will add significant costs to your first year of parenting.

On top of these one-time costs, there is the potential loss of income if you and/or your partner take unpaid leave. Under the Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA), your employer may grant you up 12 work-weeks of unpaid leave for your baby's arrival. Here again, nothing is set in stone as small businesses do not fall under the FMLA. So check to see what type of leave you may qualify for with your employer. If you take unpaid leave, calculate your regular expenses during that period—mortgage, utilities, insurance, groceries, etc.—and determine how you will meet those costs.

Ongoing Expenses

Once your baby arrives, the regular expenses to care for your little one kick in. Factor the following costs into your budget:

  • Child care: If both you and your spouse will work after your baby's arrival, your single biggest budget item will be child care. Your child care costs vary by where you live, the age of your child, how much care you require, and what type of care you use. The Care Index pegs in-center child care costs at just under $10,000 per year. The average cost of a nanny or other in-home care is around $28,350 a year, but again that can be higher or lower based on location and so on. Keep in mind, though, some costs might be offset by various tax credits, such as the child and dependent care credit. Be sure to confirm if you are eligible.
  • Necessities: ​Food, such as Gerber formula, clothing, and diapers make up most of the necessities in the ongoing costs.
  • Clothing: According to the USDA's most recent The Cost of Raising a Child report, it's advised that new parents should estimate clothing costs at around $670 up to $1,110 for the first two years. The amount ranges greatly based on personal preference and budget, but the lower end falls around $56 a month.
  • Diapers: Diapers also vary in cost, but experts advise that you should budget at least $1000 for diapers and $450 for wipes for the first year alone. That's approximately $120 a month. Parents who choose to use disposable diapers should also expect to go through as many as 3,500 diapers in their child's first year alone.
  • Food: Once you begin feeding your child solid food, you can expect to spend roughly $100 a month. The early food costs for children are relatively small compared to what you will see from a teenager.
  • The Doctor Part 2: Plan on six wellness visits the first year for evaluations, immunizations, etc., and a few additional visits for illnesses. Check your health insurance policy for your rates.

If One Parent Stays at Home

If one of you becomes a stay-at-home parent, there are important budget changes to consider—the most obvious is reduced family income. Despite the high cost of child care, the cost of one partner leaving an income behind to commit to full-time parenting can be much higher in terms of lost income, benefits, and investment.

This is compounded by diminished earning potential if that partner decides to resume their career. The decision to stay home can be personal or financial—at lower income levels, even government programs cannot balance the high costs in some regions. If it is for personal reasons, however, a couple can at least try the one-income budget prior to the birth to get an idea for it while building an emergency fund with the second income at the same time. 

Financial Tools to Consider

With your child's arrival, you'll want to create financial tools to help provide for your child's future. Review the following checklist to determine your priorities and begin budgeting:

  • College Savings Tools: According to the College Board Report, the average cost per year for college in 2021 to 2022 ranged between $10,740 to attend a public four-year in-state school and $38,070 for a private four-year education. Start saving now through one of several college education investment tools, such as a 529 plan, Coverdell Education Savings Account, or UGMA/UTMA account. There have also been some changes to the way some accounts can be used—namely the 529 plan. The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) of 2017 and the Setting Every Community Up for Retirement Enhancement Act (SECURE) of 2019 have expanded the use of 529 plans to include K to 12 education, apprenticeship programs, and the ability to pay down student debt.
  • Life Insurance: If you do not have life insurance, now is the time to buy it if you can afford to do so. For just a few dollars a month you can be assured that your child will have financial resources if you and/or your partner were to die unexpectedly. Talk to your employer or insurance agent for options on both life insurance and disability insurance. 
  • Health Insurance: Without health insurance, just one serious accident or illness could deplete your savings and put you in significant debt. Investigate your insurance options if you don't already have coverage, or budget for the increased monthly premium to add your child to your policy.
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs): FSAs enable you to use pretax dollars to pay for important family budget items, like child care and healthcare expenses. Talk with your employer or financial advisor about setting up a dependent-care FSA and/or healthcare FSA. 

Ways to Save Money

No matter your income, however, there are numerous ways to meet your new baby's needs without breaking the bank that we've hinted at throughout. Namely:

  • Consignment/Thrift Stores: Babies grow quickly. Instead of paying full price for their clothing, check out gently used and even new items at your local consignment or thrift store. Many stores will also buy back items after your child has outgrown them for cash or store credit. Online swap groups and parent networks can also provide quality goods for cheap—and sometimes even free.  
  • Family/Friends for Back-Up Daycare: Instead of having to take a day off (possibly without pay) when your child is sick, make arrangements for family or friends to help out with emergency back-up daycare.
  • Borrow Items From Friends: Ask friends with young children if you could borrow items—particularly big-ticket items they're not using, like a crib, high chair, or rocking chair.
  • Baby Shower Gifts: Register so that party-goers can buy what you really need and avoid ending up with multiple baby rattles and photo albums.
  • Downgrading Lifestyle: Having a child is going to change a lot of things, including your financial priorities. After reviewing your new budget, you may not be able to make the numbers add up. Consider closing the gap by downgrading in a few key areas. For example, think about trading in a large car for a more affordable model, shopping at less expensive stores or buying more generic items.

The Bottom Line

Children are a wonderful gift—if sometimes an expensive one. The main thing to keep in mind is that averages don't mean much when the range is as wide as it is with costs around a baby. Good health insurance can protect you from hospital bills for the most part, but only planning and budgeting can help you handle the rest. The Finnish practice of sending birthing parents home with a simple starter box that can double as a baby bed shows that many of the thousands of dollars spent on our children's first years are more for our status than their well-being.

How much does a baby cost per month?

It's hard to figure out exactly how much it costs to have a baby, since it can vary so much depending on where you live and your circumstances. Some of the biggest costs for new parents include healthcare (including birth), diapers, formula, childcare, baby gear, clothes, food, and toys. In fact, you can anticipate spending between $9,300 and $23,380 per year per child. It's scary to think about how to support a baby financially, but there are many ways to save.

How much does it cost to have a baby?

Raising a baby isn't cheap! (Check out our Baby Costs Calculator to see how it all adds up over the first year.)

On average, a child costs two-parent families in the U.S. between $9,300 and $23,380 every year, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. (That number is in 2015 dollars, the latest data available.) This wide range accounts for various factors such as income level, where you live, as well as the age of your child.

Of course, the total cost you can expect to pay also depends on your lifestyle and how much money you choose to spend on necessary items such as housing and food. Certain expenses are out of your control, such as how much childcare costs in your area and the price of your family's health insurance plan (through an employer or otherwise). But there are some simple ways to cut costs; for instance, you may have family nearby who can help watch your child a few days a week, or you may be able to breastfeed to save money on formula.

It's definitely scary to think about having enough money to meet your baby's needs, but luckily, there are ways to make these costs more manageable. Planning ahead and setting a budget as new parents certainly helps; there are also resources available for those in a lower income bracket who need financial help for a new baby.

Cost of childbirth and healthcare

Cost: Giving birth in a hospital in the United States is expensive. The national average as of 2020 was $13,811 with employer-sponsored health insurance, or an average of $3,000 out of pocket for both a mom and her baby's hospital stays. Hospital bills could exceed $10,000 out of pocket if your baby spends time in the NICU.

The exact cost of childbirth is hard to quantify because expenses vary widely based primarily on whether or not you're insured, as well as what state you live in, how long you stay in the hospital, and the type of birth you have. C-sections are notoriously more expensive than vaginal births, costing a national average of about $17,004 vs. $12,235, respectively. Check with your insurance carrier around your third trimester to get an idea of the approximate costs you can expect to pay out of pocket for your baby's birth.

Even with insurance, most pregnant women have to pay for healthcare costs associated with their prenatal care, such as insurance co-pays and deductibles. The labor and delivery itself is the biggest expense in pregnancy, as you (and your insurer) will need to pay for things like the practitioner and the actual hospital fees. The costs may be even higher if you're medically induced, if you have a complicated delivery, or if your baby needs to stay in the NICU.

If you don't have health insurance, having a baby could run you between $9,000 and $17,000 for a vaginal birth or $14,000 to $25,000 for a C-section. Luckily though, many states make it easier for pregnant women to enroll in Medicaid or a state-sponsored health insurance program, through which all of your healthcare would be free or available at a very low cost.

Ways to save: If you're uninsured, look into health insurance options right away. Also, if your pregnancy isn't high risk, you can consider having a midwife rather than an ob-gyn deliver your baby. (Midwifery services are about $2,000 less than an obstetrician's fees, on average.) Before you go this route though, confirm that your insurance (if you're insured) covers midwifery services, as most but not all do. Also, if you're paying out-of-pocket, many hospitals and healthcare providers will work with you on a discounted package rate for your prenatal and labor and delivery services. And always double-check all bills and paperwork to make sure there are no errors or hidden, unexpected fees.

Cost of formula per month

Cost: $400 to $800 is the average monthly cost for powdered formula for babies who are formula-fed exclusively. The cost will be lower if you supplement with breast milk and higher if you give your baby more expensive brands or ready-to-feed formula. Monthly formula costs could spike if your baby needs a special hypoallergenic formula or if there's a formula recall or shortage.

As your child gets older, formula costs will lessen as the amount of formula they'll need daily decreases, especially once you start introducing solid foods around six months of age. By 12 months old, your pediatrician will likely recommend that you switch your baby from formula to regular cow's milk, assuming your baby doesn't have any allergies or health concerns.

Ways to save: Breastfeed if you can. If you're not breastfeeding or are supplementing, use powdered formula, which costs less than ready-to-use or liquid concentrate. Though this may be difficult now due to the nationwide formula shortage, consider purchasing store brand or generic formulas, which meet the same federal nutrient requirements as brand-name formulas but are less expensive.

If you do buy brand-name formulas, sign up to receive coupons or become a rewards member to get discounts on the manufacturers' websites. After you're sure that your baby tolerates a particular formula well, buy it in bulk at warehouse stores or online. You can also ask moms you know or post in a local moms' group on social media to see if anyone is giving away or selling the formula your baby drinks for a discounted price; just make sure the cans or samples you get are unopened and not expired.

Cost of diapers per month

Cost: $70 to $80 per month for disposable diapers, averaging out to about 29 cents each. The cost will vary depending on the brand you use and where you purchase the diapers. Infants require up to 12 diapers a day for the first year and toddlers need about 8, which is a total of about 2,500 to 3,000 diapers a year.

Ways to save: Try to purchase most of your baby's diapers at a "big box" chain store or warehouse store instead of a local convenience store, which is more likely to mark up prices. Buying diapers in bulk online is also a good way to save. Sign up at diaper manufacturers' websites to get coupons, and stock up when diapers are on sale. Alternatively, you may want to consider cloth diapers, which are gaining popularity with many budget-minded parents. They could save you about 27 percent a year vs. disposable diapers, plus there are a lot of cute and convenient cloth diapers on the market to choose from.

Cost of childcare per month

Cost: Varies according to which type of childcare you choose: daycare center, home daycare, relative care, nanny care, babysitter, or au pair. Childcare costs also fluctuate wildly based on where you live, how old your child is, and whether you need part-time or full-time childcare. The average monthly cost of daycare in the U.S. is around $850, while hiring a private nanny costs around $2,450 a month. You or your partner may choose to be a stay-at-home parent, in which case you may not require childcare. (But keep in mind this can impact your career and lifetime earnings potential.) Learn more about the pros and cons of all your childcare options.

Ways to save: For full-time care, consider asking a trusted relative or friend who may charge less than a traditional daycare center. Home daycares and nanny sharing with a neighbor or friend can also save cash. For occasional babysitting, trade time with another parent who's a neighbor or friend, or hire a responsible student. If possible, coordinate work schedules with your partner so you can each cover some of your child's care. Finally, consider enrolling in a flexible spending account for childcare expenses if your employer offers one – this means you can put your pre-tax money toward dependent care expenses.

Cost of baby gear

Cost: Varies according to which items you buy. Babies need a lot of stuff, but some items are must-haves, while others are nice-to-have extras. The basic baby gear you'll need during your baby's first year includes a crib (with mattress) or play yard, a stroller, a car seat, bottles and/or breastfeeding accessories, a baby bathtub, toiletries such as a hairbrush and first aid kit, and toys. As your baby gets older and more mobile, you'll also need safety gear such as babyproofing tools and safety gates, as well as a high chair and other feeding accessories like spoons and cups.

There are plenty of baby gear "add-ons" that are nice to have but not necessary – for instance a bottle warmer, a rocker or glider, a changing table, various baby carriers, and different large baby toys like a bouncer, activity center, and swing. (Of course, for some families these are essentials – the tricky part is knowing what you and your baby will love.)

Ways to save: Create a baby registry so friends and family members can help with the big purchases. Start with the basics – a good car seat, stroller, and play yard with bassinet, for example – and wait to buy other things. You may be able to try out a friend's activity center or swing to see if your baby likes it before buying one. Although it's important to buy your car seat new, check for other items at garage sales and secondhand stores, on community websites, and used from friends and relatives.

Cost of baby clothes

Cost: $20 to $50 (or more) per month on average, depending on where (and how often) you shop. Throughout the first twelve months, babies outgrow clothing very quickly, so you'll be buying more clothes in infancy than when they're older. You'll also need to stock up on baby clothes for the first six weeks, especially comfy pajamas, onesies, and sleepers. To start off your baby's wardrobe, consider getting a few outfits in the 3-6 month and 6-9 month size ranges. There are endless amounts of baby clothes to choose from, but check out our list of the best baby clothing brands to help you narrow it down.

Ways to save: Many first-time parents find they receive enough gifts to keep their baby clothed for the first few months. After that, watch for store sales and online deals, and accept hand-me-downs from friends and relatives. Get gently used items from consignment stores, thrift shops, community websites, garage sales, and sites and apps that sell secondhand baby clothes. If your baby is in between sizes, consider buying clothes one size up so your child can grow into the items and wear them for longer. Finally, treat your baby's soiled clothes with stain remover and wash with a good baby detergent so they can be worn again (or handed down).

Cost of baby food

Cost: $98 to $230 per month after your baby starts solid food. Food costs about 18 percent of the total cost of raising a child, second only to housing. Your baby may eat a lot of the same food you eat, especially if you're introducing solid foods via baby-led weaning, but they'll probably still require some foods that are specific to babies and toddlers. Depending on your baby's age, some packaged foods you may choose to purchase include jarred fruits and vegetables, baby food pouches, teething crackers, and puffs.

Ways to save: If possible, make your own baby food. A hand blender is all you really need to whip up fruits, veggies, and other foods you serve your family into a consistency that's safe for babies. You can even freeze the extras to serve later on. For those times when you do buy prepared baby food, use coupons and buy in bulk, especially if the item is on sale. And if you don't mind, opt for non-organic products, which are less expensive but just as delicious.

Cost of baby toys and books

Cost: $30 to $50 per month on average. Each household is different, but the average family spends about $580 on toys a year, or up to $6,000 before a child reaches their teenage years. Toys aren't a necessity, per se, but play is an important part of your baby's development. There are many games you can play with your baby – with and without toys – to help your little one learn about the world. Reading to your newborn is also an important part of development, and it can help lay the groundwork for vocabulary, reading, and comprehension skills.

Ways to save: Let your child play with safe household items; For example, whisks, containers, pots and pans, and hairbrushes are always a hit with little ones. Buy toys secondhand, borrow books from the library, ask friends for hand-me-downs, and consider setting up a toy and book exchange with friends or neighbors who have babies around the same age.

Some websites let you trade in toys, and you can use that money earned toward newer items. If you do buy brand-new toys, even if just for special occasions like birthdays or holidays, look for sales and manufacturers' coupons for brands you like. Also consider joining the loyalty program at your favorite retailer, or searching the toy section at discount stores.

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The best powdered milk formulas | Rating of Roskachestvo

About products

As part of a rolling study, dry adapted initial milk formulas (as close as possible in chemical composition to breast milk) produced on the basis of cow's and goat's milk, intended for healthy children from 0 to 6 months (18 products) and from 0 to 12 months ( 3 products).

The choice of brands was determined by mothers - the most active audience of the Roskachestvo portal. For a whole year, they sent the names of the brands they were interested in. As a result, experts tested the products of 21 brands in 82 quality and safety indicators. At the same time, the geography of the production of dry milk mixtures turned out to be quite extensive. We tested milk powders from Belarus (1), Germany (2), Denmark (3), Ireland (1), Spain (2), the Netherlands (4), New Zealand (1), Russia (4), Finland (1 ), Switzerland (1) and Estonia (1). The cost at the time of purchase ranged from 53.43 to 288.25 rubles per 100 grams of the product.

According to the results of the study, the powdered milk formula "Bellakt Optimum 1" (Republic of Belarus) met not only the requirements of current standards for quality and safety, but also the advanced requirements of the Roskachestvo standard. However, this product cannot qualify for the Russian Quality Mark, as it was produced abroad.

RUSSIAN QUALITY SYSTEM STANDARD

The standard of the Russian quality system for dry adapted milk formulas for children from 0 to 6 months has tightened the requirements for the content of some components:

  • the mixture does not contain starch;

  • the mass fraction of moisture in a dry product should not exceed 3. 5%;

  • the index of the solubility index of the raw sediment (for dry mixtures) should be no more than 0.2 cm³;

  • the level of active acidity is 6.6–7.4 pH.

  • the required level of product localization for awarding the Russian Quality Mark is at least 25%.

These requirements are not mandatory for manufacturers, however, products that do not meet the specified requirements cannot qualify for the Russian Quality Mark.

Safety first

According to Rosstat, today about 40% of children in the country are bottle-fed. The parents of these babies can easily purchase milk formulas, since there is no shortage of them on the shelves of Russian stores. The choice of the consumer is offered both imported and domestic products.

However, consumers have concerns about this product. For example, it is believed that milk mixtures may contain antibiotics (from raw materials), E. coli, heavy metals, preservatives and impurities that can harm the health of the child.

The experts checked the adapted dry milk formulas (breast milk substitutes) for microbiological safety, for the presence of preservatives and antibiotics.

The mixtures were also checked for the presence of melamine in them. After more than 6,000 babies were poisoned with infant formula in China in 2008 (in those mixtures, the melamine content was 500 times higher than the permissible norm), the very word “melamine” terrifies consumers.

The results of our study allow us to state that there is no melamine in the mixtures.

FOR REFERENCE

How did the chemical get into baby food in 2008?

“According to the most common version, the reason for the Chinese melamine crisis was the deliberate addition of melamine to baby food and dairy products,” explains Dmitry Makarov, senior researcher at VGNKI, Rosselkhoznadzor. - This was done in order to increase the protein value of products. The fact is that the generally accepted method for determining protein does not distinguish between protein and melamine. Apparently, therefore, the manufacturers hoped that their scam would go unnoticed. However, they did not take into account the fact that in high concentrations, melamine causes the formation of crystals in the urinary tract, which leads to disruption of the kidneys.

Based on the results of testing mixtures for safety, it can be concluded that all products are safe. It does not contain antibiotics, heavy metals and toxic elements. Microbiological indicators meet the established requirements. There are no preservatives (including sorbic, propionic and benzoic acids) in the composition.

Special production

Many people think that powdered milk mixtures are made from ordinary milk powder, to which various vitamins, micro- and macroelements are added. This, of course, is not true.

First of all, it must be said that all mixtures are divided into adapted - as close as possible to women's milk, partially adapted and the so-called subsequent formulas - mixtures for feeding children over a year old. Also on the market is a category of adapted milk formulas with average indicators for feeding children from birth to 12 months.

Age distinctions of mixtures are as follows:

  • The prefix "pre" in the title refers to mixtures for premature or low birth weight babies.

  • "1" - for children from birth to 6 months.

  • "2" - for babies from 6 months to 1 year.

  • "3" - for children older than a year.

  • "4" - as a rule, starting from 18 months.

“The choice of optimal nutrition for children in the first months of life seems especially difficult, because the stomach of babies does not yet have the enzymes necessary for digesting food,” says Tatiana Butskaya -pediatrician. - These children often have functional digestive disorders, and they are at high risk of developing various forms of food intolerance.

That is why pediatricians insist on a mandatory consultation with a doctor before transferring a child of the first year of life to full or partial artificial nutrition.

The main principle that must be observed when creating adapted mixtures for children of the first year of life is their maximum approximation (adaptation) to the composition and properties of human milk and compliance with the characteristics of the child's digestion and metabolism. To achieve this, manufacturers are constantly improving blends.

Read HERE about the benefits of breastfeeding and how it affects your baby's health.

What makes formula closer to breast milk?

For the health of the baby, it is important that the mixture is balanced in terms of the content of proteins, fats, carbohydrates, polyunsaturated fatty acids, amino acids, vitamins and minerals, which must be present in the composition of the mixture.

Proteins, fats, carbohydrates

In the course of the study, the experts found that in mixtures of all brands, the content of proteins, fats and carbohydrates complies with the requirements of the law.

Vegetable fats and polyunsaturated fatty acids

– To improve lipid metabolism, milk fat is partially or completely replaced with vegetable oils (corn, rapeseed, soybean, coconut, sunflower, etc.)0003 Head of the Department of the Research Institute of Baby Nutrition of the branch of the Federal State Budgetary Institution "Federal Research Center for Nutrition and Biotechnology" Elena Simonenko.

In this regard, two more consumer fears are worth mentioning:

In our study, soy with GMOs was not found in mixtures.

In addition, experts have dispelled consumer fears about the inappropriateness of vegetable fats in baby food.

– The main essential fatty acid in human breast milk is palmitic. It is found in the fruits of the oil palm. Palm oil is about half made up of palmitic acid. Infant formulas are made as close as possible in composition to breast milk, and palm oil is an important ingredient. The requirements for the indicators of raw materials used in the production of infant formula are established in the technical regulation of the Customs Union "On food safety" (TR CU 021/2011), says Executive Director of the Association of Fat and Oil Producers and Consumers Ekaterina Nesterova.

– It should be emphasized that the level of palmitic acid in breast milk is 25%, and by refusing palm oil in the composition of infant formula, the manufacturer must ensure that its content is close to that of mother's milk. Meanwhile, in some milk "palm-free" mixtures, it is below 10%, - specifies Director General of the National Union of Milk Producers "Soyuzmoloko" Artem Belov.

Also, the child in the process of growth and development requires energy. The body receives a significant part of it from the breakdown of fats.

- Polyunsaturated fatty acids are very important for the baby. These substances ensure the normal development of the organs of vision and hearing of the child, are responsible for the harmonious physical development and behavioral functions. Omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids play a special role in the maturation and functioning of the central nervous system in children and have a direct impact on brain development. They are involved in the construction of the myelin sheaths of the brain and play a critical role in the transmission of signals between nerve cells. All this is extremely important for the development of intelligence, mindfulness, memory, psychomotor function, - clarifies Anastasia Kirillova, pediatrician at the Children's Clinic MEDSI (Moscow).

– It should be noted that polyunsaturated linoleic acid (omega-6 family) is not synthesized in the human body, it is one of the essential nutritional factors, including for young children, therefore it is used in infant formulas and is normalized by technical regulations, – specifies Elena Simonenko .

According to the requirements of TR TS 033/2013, in the dry milk mixture of linoleic acid should be from 14 to 20% of the total fatty acids. The study showed that in milk mixtures Nutrilon Premium (Ireland) and "MD mil SP Goat 1" (Spain) insufficient amount of linoleic acid, which does not meet the requirements of TR TS.

Amino acids

Particular attention should be paid to the presence of taurine in the composition of the mixture - an essential amino acid necessary for the proper development of the child's body, - notes Elena Simonenko .

Our research has shown that all brands of products meet the required taurine content.

Vitamins and minerals

Any adapted milk formula, according to the recommendations of the FAO/WHO Codex Alimentarius Commission, must contain at least 11 minerals and 15 vitamins. We checked whether the content of vitamins and minerals meets the established standards.

According to the results of the study, it turned out that in the product Frisolac (Netherlands) the content of calcium and magnesium in the diluted mixture is below the established norms:

  • According to the requirements, the calcium content in the reconstituted mixture should be 330. 0–700.0 mg/l, in fact it is 300.31 mg/l.

  • Magnesium should be 50.0-150.0 mg / l, and in fact - 6.75 mg / l.

In the products of other brands, the experts did not find violations in terms of the content of minerals.

The level of vitamins in adapted mixtures should be higher than in human milk, on average by 15–20%, since their digestibility is lower than from breast milk. According to the requirements, in the reconstituted adapted mixture of vitamin C there should be at least 55-150 mg / l.

The audit showed that the products of nine brands of vitamin C are less than the established norm TR CU 033/2013: "Kid Istra" (Russia), Bebi Premium (Denmark), Frisolac (Netherlands), Frisolac (Netherlands), Humana Expert (Germany), Nestogen (Russia), Nutricia Malyutka (Russia), Nutrilon Premium (Ireland), Similac (Denmark). However, this cannot be attributed to violations: due to the volatility of dry components, it is incorrect to say that this indicator turned out to be lower due to the fault of the manufacturer, the content of vitamin C could decrease during storage.

Read HERE for how to choose and store powdered milk formula.

Taste, color, smell and texture

Products of all brands fully met the organoleptic requirements.

Smell - pleasant, barely perceptible.

The taste of is delicate, slightly sweet, without foreign aftertastes.

Consistency. All mixtures were a fine homogeneous powder without lumps (or with a small amount of lumps that easily crumble under slight pressure). In the restored form, the liquid is homogeneous.

Color also met the requirements - from white with a slight creamy tint to a light creamy yellow.

We checked the level of active acidity (pH) in the mixtures and whether they dissolve well in water.

The results of the study showed that the products of all brands are highly soluble in water, and the level of acidity (pH) corresponds to the advanced standard of Roskachestvo. This means that all mixtures are well absorbed.

Compliance with marking

And finally, one more concern: many are convinced that the ingredients of powdered milk mixtures declared on the label may not correspond to the actual composition. Our experts have checked whether such concerns are justified.

“According to the requirement of the TR CU for product labeling, the manufacturer is obliged to place information on the composition of micronutrients (they determine the development of the child), as well as the amount of proteins, fats and carbohydrates in the volume in which they are present in the dry milk formula, on the package,” says Elena Saratseva, Deputy Head of the Russian Quality System . – At the same time, it is important for consumers to obtain information about the composition of the mixture in the finished (reconstituted) form in accordance with the recommendations indicated by the manufacturer. It is important to note that the rationing for infant formula is based on the diluted product. Therefore, labeling on mixtures is often put through a fraction or in two columns in the table: on the dry matter contained in this package, as well as on the finished (diluted) product.

During the study, it was found that there are certain discrepancies in the indication of prebiotics, minerals and vitamins in the labeling.

Only one manufacturer indicated absolutely reliable information in the labeling of his product - in the mixture "Bellakt Optimum 1" (Belarus).

“The problem of inconsistencies in labeling may be related to the dry mixing method in production,” says Elena Saratseva. - This method of manufacture does not allow achieving uniformity of the composition. Thus, in almost every package, the actual concentrations of trace elements differ from those declared. This creates an inconvenience when choosing baby food, since, for example, mixtures where a high content of calcium or vitamin C is declared may not turn out to be such, therefore, they will not meet the expectations that the consumer places on it.

At the same time, despite deviations from the information stated in the labeling, the products of most brands will provide a healthy child with the necessary amount of all substances, the content of which is normalized in milk mixtures.

Cost of living in Canada

When moving to a new country, it is very important to understand the upcoming financial expenses, the price level for the main groups of goods and rent. At first, after moving, information about the rent for houses and apartments is usually more relevant, which may vary depending on the province, city and region. We also advise you to pay attention in advance to the mandatory costs of the bills: electricity, water, Internet and others.

The cost of transportation for gasoline or the purchase of a bus pass often has a significant impact on the budget. So we also recommend that these items be included in the list of necessary costs.

We will try to guide you through the main items of expenditure so that you can plan your budget in advance and be fully equipped.

It is known that the largest city in Canada is Toronto (province of Ontario). It is the business, cultural and economic center of the country. In this regard, the cost of living here is one of the highest, but despite this, thousands of immigrants are striving here.

Given the popularity of Toronto, here are the prices for 2020.

Accommodation

The first and most significant item of expenditure is rent.

One bedroom apartment per month: around 2314 CAD

A two bedroom apartment will cost about 2966 CAD

Transportation

Transportation in Toronto is very well established and well thought out. Here you can get around using: trains, metro, trams, buses, Uber.

Transport here is handled by several leading companies operating within their area.

For example:

Presto is a transportation company serving the northern suburbs of Toronto.

A one-way trip for an adult on public transport will cost 3.10-3.25 CAD

Presto pass for students per month: 122.45 CAD

Presto pass for adult per month: 151.15 CAD

For If you like to get around with maximum comfort, here is the cost of an Uber trip:

An Uber trip from the City Center to the Yong and Dundas area costs about 30 CAD round trip.

Products

Food prices actually decreased by about 11% compared to 2019. This is due to the fact that Canadians are increasingly using food delivery apps. Therefore, visiting grocery stores has become less frequent than before.

On average, an adult spends about: 252 CAD per month on groceries

If you consider additional expenses for ordering food to go and visiting restaurants and cafes, then be prepared for the following expenses:

Buy a ready lunch: 10 CAD

Order a dinner to go: 20 CAD

Lunch at a restaurant: 70 CAD

Coffee (latte) to go: 4 CAD

per month: CAD 75

Internet: approx. 0005

Netflix (Standard Monthly Subscription): CAD 13.99

Apple TV+: CAD 5.99 per month (First year free with Apple device)

Disney+: CAD 8.99 per month

21 Sports

It's easy enough to stay in shape at Toronto's gyms and studios.

There are many of them and for every taste.

Monthly gym memberships range from 15 CAD at Planet Fitness to 59CAD to YMCA.

The maximum subscription to Goodlife Fitness will cost up to 69.98 CAD per month.

Kindergartens

We singled out this item of expenditure, as it seriously affects the family budget.

On average, kindergartens cost 800-1200 CAD per month.

Often, one of the parents is forced to take a break from work and stay at home with the child, since it is quite expensive to pay for kindergarten.

Of course, there are still expenses for clothes, gifts, children's entertainment, etc.

When making purchases, everyone proceeds from the budget and the lifestyle to which they are accustomed, everything is very, very individual here.

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