Breastfeeding is best.

If an infant is not breast-fed, an iron-fortified cow's milk-based formula should be used until 9 to 12 months of age.

• Make sure to choose a formula that is iron-fortified, because some brands are not. The iron stores each baby is born with will start to run out by about 4 to 6 months of age.
• A soy-based formula should only be used for infants who cannot take cow's milk-based formula for health reasons, or due to religious, personal or cultural beliefs. All soy-based formulas are iron-fortified in Canada.
• A child who is on soy-based formula should continue on it until 2 years of age.

For more information on formula feeding, talk to your Medical Doctor, Dietitian, or Public Health Nurse.