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Infant feeding

Get advice and support with infant feeding from other users here.

Original poster

Advice on making formula

20 replies

GirlOutNumbered · 13/03/2013 10:03

Hello
Just bought my first box of formula (infasoy). It gives detailed instructions on the back about leaving the kettle to cool for 30 mins then mixing and serving immediately.
Do I have to do it that way? I have seen mums tip powder into what must be cold water when I am out and serve it that way.
Can i do that?

thanks!

OP posts:
MrsMushroom · 13/03/2013 10:36

I used to do that but my baby was used to it...the water was boiled and cooled and brought out in the bottle all ready to go.


If your baby isn't used to cold formula, I wouldn't do that. Also it mixes badly in cold water...you get lumps that wont go in.

I sometimes used cold water ready boiled and then topped it with a splash of boiling to make it up to the right level...but you must shake it very well and be sure it is not hot.

ginmakesitallok · 13/03/2013 10:43

You should NEVER make up formula with cold water- whether boiled or not.

breatheslowly · 13/03/2013 11:38

Formula powder is not sterile. It can contain bacteria which can make babies very ill. The over 70 degree water kills the bacteria.

vamosbebe · 13/03/2013 11:43

Many people do this:
Boil kettle, make up bottles for the day (6 for example) WITH milk, store at the back of the fridge.
When you need a bottle, warm up in a bain marie/pop in microwave very briefly/allow to warm up to room temperature naturally (eg half hour before you need it). Whichever is easiest for you.

Some babies like cold milk, some warmed up, some room temperature. Make whatever suits you and your baby.

MrsMushroom · 13/03/2013 12:30

I never put the powder in till I needed the bottle. I filled a bunch of bottles with warm, previously boiled water, then kept them on a tray in the kitchen.

They were used only that day...if they were too cold, I'd sit them in a jug of boiling water then add powder to warm water.

As I said bot my DDs turned out fine/.

Original poster
GirlOutNumbered · 13/03/2013 12:30

Thanks for answers. He wasn't particularly interested in it warm, maybe I will try it cold.

OP posts:
MrsMushroom · 13/03/2013 13:32

Maybe he just didn't fancy it? How old is he? If he's been breast fed he may be a bit Hmm about a bottle whatever the temp.

JiltedJohnsJulie · 13/03/2013 13:55

What ^breathe* said. The NHS guidelines are here and includes some information on the bacteria found in formula and why you shouldn't make it up with cold water.

Original poster
GirlOutNumbered · 13/03/2013 13:58

He's 6 months... It was in a sippy cup, which he can drink from.

OP posts:
ginmakesitallok · 13/03/2013 18:03

MrsMushroon - and my grandad smoked til he was 80 and he was fine too...

MrsMushroom · 13/03/2013 19:13

yes, yes. A chilly bottle doesn't risk lung cancer though. Not a good comparison.

stargirl1701 · 13/03/2013 19:15

Formula can contain salmonella bacterium. The water above 70 degrees will kill it. Babies can die from salmonella.

WickWackThurso · 13/03/2013 19:18

Yes, but it risks severe gastro infections, dehydration, hospitalisation etc. I think gin was pointing out that just as her grandad took a risk, and you took a risk and were fine, it doesn't mean your behaviour wasn't risky.

The near boiling (>70degrees) is to kill the bacteria in the milk powder, how the baby prefers it temp wise is separate matter.

MerryMingeWhingesAgain · 13/03/2013 19:19

Have you been medically advised to give him a soy based formula? There are good reasons to avoid it, especially for a boy.

Stropzilla · 13/03/2013 19:23

Agree with Merry. My HV said to avoid soy formula for at least under 6 months. And please make up with fresh boiled water, it's not the water that needs steralizing it's the formula as it can't be heat treated for nasties.

I cheat, I put the full amount of formula I need in half the boiled water, shake and add the remaining amount in cold. A tip I picked up on here, and means it's ready immediately. Apparantly still within guidelines and saves loads of time!

Original poster
GirlOutNumbered · 13/03/2013 19:38

He can't have dairy, he is prescribed nutramigen, but it's disgusting. Dietician said to try soy. It's only for the odd bottle, I just want to have my hair cut, go out for a meal etc!
I'm rubbish at expressing milk.

OP posts:
Stropzilla · 13/03/2013 20:01

Ah my DD can't have dairy, she has Pepti Jr which isn't disgusting. Or at least, not that bad! Try and get that if you can, it's been a lifesaver.

Original poster
GirlOutNumbered · 13/03/2013 20:10

Pepti junior? Never heard of that one. Will call in the morning, I can't believe anyone can drink nutramigen. Even the smell makes me want to throw up!
Thanks for the info.m

OP posts:
Stropzilla · 13/03/2013 20:21

No, they don't like prescribing it because it's pricey. But it's better for them than soy, and given when they won't accept nutramigen.

Original poster
GirlOutNumbered · 13/03/2013 20:42

I will push that I go back to work soon and need him to drink something! She suggested that I put vanilla essence in it, but that didn't even do it for him.

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