Is Raw Milk Safe for Babies?
December 31, 2001Francis M. Pottenger, MD and “The Hazards of a Health Fetish”
January 1, 2002By Sally Fallon Morell
To help you with any questions you may have about the recipes below, please refer to our:
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) on Homemade Baby Formula,
- Diet for Pregnant and Nursing Mothers,
- FAQ on Diet for Pregnancy, and
- Homemade Baby Formula Testimonials.
VIDEO: Chapter leader Sarah Pope has posted videos about making both the raw milk and liver formulas:
- Milk-Based Formula Video: thehealthyhomeeconomist.com/video-homemade-milk-based-baby-formula/
- Liver-Based Formula Video: thehealthyhomeeconomist.com/video-hypoallergenic-baby-formula/
Many of the ingredients for these recipes are available from Radiant Life, 888-593-8333, www.radiantlifecatalog.com.
Jump to:
- Raw Milk Baby Formula
- Variation: Goat Milk Formula
- Liver-Based Formula
- Fortified Commercial Formula
- Egg Yolk for Baby
- Homemade Whey
- Breast Milk and Homemade Formula Nutrient Comparison Chart
Raw Milk Baby Formula
Makes 36 ounces
Our milk-based formula takes account of the fact that human milk is richer in whey, lactose, vitamin C, niacin, and long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids compared to cow’s milk but leaner in casein (milk protein). The addition of gelatin to cow’s milk formula will make it more digestible for the infant. Use only truly expeller-expressed oils in the formula recipes, otherwise they may lack vitamin E.
The ideal milk for baby, if he cannot be breastfed, is clean, whole raw milk from old-fashioned cows, certified free of disease, that feed on green pasture. For sources of good quality milk, see www.realmilk.com or contact a local chapter of the Weston A. Price Foundation.
If the only choice available to you is commercial milk, choose whole milk, preferably organic and unhomogenized, and culture it with a piima or kefir culture to restore enzymes (available from G.E.M. Cultures 707-964-2922).
Ingredients
- 2 cups whole raw cow’s milk, preferably from pasture-fed cows
- 1/4 cup homemade liquid whey (See recipe for whey, below) Note: Do NOT use powdered whey or whey from making cheese (which will cause the formula to curdle). Use only homemade whey made from yoghurt, kefir or separated raw milk.
- 4 tablespoons lactose1
- 1/4 teaspoon bifidobacterium infantis2
- 2 or more tablespoons good quality cream (preferably not ultrapasteurized), more if you are using milk from Holstein cows
- 1/2 teaspoon unflavored high-vitamin or high-vitamin fermented cod liver oil or 1 teaspoon regular cod liver oil3
- 1/4 teaspoon high-vitamin butter oil (optional)1
- 1 teaspoon expeller-expressed sunflower oil1
- 1 teaspoon extra virgin olive oil1
- 2 teaspoons coconut oil1
- 2 teaspoons Frontier brand nutritional yeast flakes1
- 2 teaspoons gelatin1
- 1-7/8 cups filtered water
- 1/4 teaspoon acerola powder1, 2
1. Available from Radiant Life 888-593-8333, www.radiantlifecatalog.com.
2. Earlier versions of this web page called for 1 tsp of bifidobacterium infantis and 1 tsp of acerola powder–these were typos.
3. Use only recommended brands of cod liver oil. See our recommendations here.
Instructions
- Put 2 cups filtered water into a pyrex measuring pitcher and remove 2 tablespoons (that will give you 1-7/8 cups water).
- Pour about half of the water into a pan and place on a medium flame.
- Add the gelatin and lactose to the pan and let dissolve, stirring occasionally.
- When the gelatin and lactose are dissolved, remove from heat and add the remaining water to cool the mixture.
- Stir in the coconut oil and optional high-vitamin butter oil and stir until melted.
- Meanwhile, place remaining ingredients into a blender.
- Add the water mixture and blend about three seconds.
- Place in glass bottles or a glass jar and refrigerate.
- Before giving to baby, warm bottles by placing in hot water or a bottle warmer. NEVER warm bottles in a microwave oven.
Variation: Goat Milk Formula
Although goat milk is rich in fat, it must be used with caution in infant feeding as it lacks folic acid and is low in vitamin B12, both of which are essential to the growth and development of the infant. Inclusion of nutritional yeast to provide folic acid is essential. To compensate for low levels of vitamin B12, if preparing the Milk-Based Formula (above) with goat’s milk, add 2 teaspoons organic raw chicken liver, frozen for 14 days, finely grated to the batch of formula (or, 1/4 teaspoon dessicated liver per batch). Be sure to begin egg-yolk feeding at four months.
Liver-Based Formula
Makes about 36 ounces
Our liver-based formula also mimics the nutrient profile of mother’s milk. It is extremely important to include coconut oil in this formula as it is the only ingredient that provides the special medium-chain saturated fats found in mother’s milk. As with the milk-based formula, all oils should be truly expeller-expressed.
Ingredients
- 3-3/4 cups homemade beef or chicken broth
- 2 ounces organic liver, cut into small pieces
- 5 tablespoons lactose1
- 1/4 teaspoon bifidobacterium infantis2
- 1/4 cup homemade liquid whey (See recipe for whey, below)
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil1
- 1/2 teaspoon unflavored high-vitamin or high-vitamin fermented cod liver oil or 1 teaspoon regular cod liver oil3
- 1 teaspoon unrefined sunflower oil1
- 2 teaspoons extra virgin olive oil1
- 1/4 teaspoon acerola powder1,2
1. Available from Radiant Life 888-593-8333, www.radiantlifecatalog.com.
2. Earlier versions of this web page called for 1 tsp of bifidobacterium infantis and 1 tsp of acerola powder–these were typos.
3. Use only recommended brands of cod liver oil. See our recommendations here.
Instructions
- Simmer liver gently in broth until the meat is cooked through.
- Liquefy using a handheld blender or in a food processor.
- When the liver broth has cooled, stir in remaining ingredients.
- Store in a very clean glass or stainless steel container.
- To serve, stir formula well and pour 6 to 8 ounces in a very clean glass bottle.
- Attach a clean nipple and set in a pan of simmering water until formula is warm but not hot to the touch, shake well and feed to baby. (Never heat formula in a microwave oven!)
Fortified Commercial Formula
Makes about 35 ounces
This stopgap formula can be used in emergencies, or when the ingredients for homemade formula are unavailable.
Ingredients
- 1 cup milk-based powdered formula1
- 29 ounces filtered water (3 5/8 cups)
- 1 large egg yolk from an organic egg, cooked 3 1/2 minutes (See recipe for egg yolk, below)
- 1/2 teaspoon unflavored high-vitamin or high-vitamin fermented cod liver oil or 1 teaspoon regular cod liver oil2
1. We are sorry to report that the Mead Johnson (Enfamil) Low Iron formula we previously recommended is no longer available. In fact, all commercial formula now contains iron, by FDA decree. The best choice for commercial formula today seems to be Baby’s Only Organic Dairy Formula. It contains iron but otherwise contains higher quality ingredients than any of the other commercial formulas. It is also the only brand on the market at this time without the Martek DHASCO and ARASCO additive. If you are forced to use commercial formula, make sure that baby is getting cod liver oil, either added to the formula or given with an eye dropper or syringe. As soon as possible, introduce solid foods like egg yolk, liver, meat and bone broths.
2. Use only recommended brands of cod liver oil. See our recommendations here.
Instructions:
- Place all ingredients in a blender or food processor and blend thoroughly.
- Place 6-8 ounces in a very clean glass bottle. (Store the rest in a very clean glass jar in the refrigerator for the next feedings.)
- Attach a clean nipple to the bottle and set in a pan of simmering water until formula is warm but not hot to the touch, shake well and feed to baby. (Never heat formula in a microwave oven!)
Egg Yolk for Baby
Egg yolk should be baby’s first solid food, starting at 4 months, whether baby is breastfed or formula-fed. Egg yolks from pastured hens will contain the special long-chain fatty acids so critical for the optimal development of the brain and nervous system. The whites may cause an allergic reaction and should not be given to baby until he is at least one year old.
Ingredients:
- 1 organic egg from a pasture-fed hen
- 1/2 teaspoon grated raw organic liver, frozen for 14 days Note: It is VERY important that the liver be frozen for 14 days before using.
Instructions:
- Boil egg for 3 1/2 minutes.
- Place in a bowl and peel off shell.
- Remove egg white and discard.
- Yolk should be soft and warm, not hot, with its enzyme content intact.
- If you wish to add liver, grate on the small holes of a grater while frozen. Allow to warm up and stir into egg yolk.
Homemade Whey
About 5 cups
Homemade whey is easy to make from good quality plain yoghurt, or from raw or cultured milk. You will need a large strainer that rests over a bowl.
If you are using yoghurt, place 2 quarts in the strainer lined with a tea towel. Cover with a plate and leave at room temperature overnight. The whey will drip out into the bowl. Place whey in clean glass jars and store in the refrigerator.
If you are using raw or cultured milk, place 2 quarts of the milk in a glass container and leave at room temperature for 2-4 days until the milk separates into curds and whey. Pour into the strainer lined with a tea towel and cover with a plate. Leave at room temperature overnight. The whey will drip out into the bowl. Store in clean glass jars in the refrigerator.
Source: Nourishing Traditions by Sally Fallon with Mary G. Enig, PhD.
Breast Milk and Homemade Formula Nutrient Comparison Chart
Based on 36 ounces.
These nutrient comparison tables were derived from standard food nutrient tables and do not take into account the wide variation in nutrient levels that can occur in both human and animal milk, depending on diet and environment.
| Breast Milk | Cow’s Milk Formula |
Goat Milk Formula |
Liver-Based Formula |
|
| Calories | 766 | 856 | 890 | 682 |
| Protein | 11.3g | 18g | 18g | 15g |
| Carbohydrates | 76g | 79g | 77g | 69g |
| Total Fat | 48g | 52g | 54g | 36g |
| Saturated Fat | 22g | 28g | 30g | 16g |
| Mono Fat | 18g | 16g | 16g | 12g |
| Poly Fat | 5.5g | 5.6g | 5.7g | 5.6g |
| Omega-3 FA | .58g | 1.3g | 1.2g | 1.0g |
| Omega-6 FA | 4.4g | 4.2g | 4.4g | 4.5g |
| Cholesterol | 153mg | 137mg | 166mg | 227mg |
| Vitamin A* | 946IU | 5000IU | 5000IU | 20,000IU |
| Thiamin-B1 | .15mg | 1.05mg | 1.1mg | .19mg |
| Riboflavin-B2 | .4mg | 1.2mg | 1.2mg | 1.9mg |
| Niacin-B3 | 1.9mg | 2.5mg | 4.4mg | 14.2mg |
| Vitamin B6 | .12mg | .51mg | .60mg | .65mg |
| Vitamin B12 | .5mcg | 1.9mcg | 2.8mcg | 39mcg |
| Folate | 57mcg | 236mcg | 284mcg | 159mcg |
| Vitamin C | 55mg | 57mg | 59mg | 62mg |
| Vitamin D | 480IU | 450IU | 525IU | 460IU |
| Vitamin E*** | 9.9mg | 6.2mg | 4.7mg | 4.9mg |
| Calcium | 355mg | 532mg | 548mg | NA** |
| Copper | .57mg | .38mg | .58mg | 1.9mg |
| Iron | .33mg | 1.4mg | 2.2mg | 5.4mg |
| Magnesium | 37.4mg | 91.3mg | 96.1mg | 34.5mg |
| Manganese | .29mg | .034mg | .12mg | .24mg |
| Phosphorus | 151mg | 616mg | 729mg | 344mg |
| Potassium | 560mg | 949mg | 1228mg | 750mg |
| Selenium | 18.8mcg | 15.4mcg | 18.7mcg | 31.1mcg |
| Sodium | 186mg | 308mg | 320mg | NA** |
| Zinc | 1.9mg | 2.8mg | 2.7mg | 2.5mg |
* Vitamin A levels in human milk will depend on the diet of the mother. Nursing mothers eating vitamin A-rich foods such as cod liver oil will have much higher levels of vitamin A in their milk. Commercial formulas contain about 2400 IU vitamin A per 800 calories.
** Calcium and sodium values for homemade broth are not available.
*** Vitamin E values are derived from commercial vegetable oils. The vitamin E levels for homemade formulas will be higher if good quality, expeller-expressed oils are used.
299 Comments
Hi Cindy, the chart in the article is referring to the nutrient values of the FORMULAS. So the B12 value for the Goat Milk Formula is higher because that recipe includes a small amount of grated raw liver, which has a high amount of B12 (as you can see by the much higher B12 value for the liver-based formula). If the goat milk formula didn’t have the liver it would be lower in B12 than the human milk or the cow’s milk formula. Hope this clears up the confusion!
(Also the liver is included in the goat milk formula recipe not only for the B12 but also for the folate, which is very important. Babies exclusively on goat milk sometimes develop folate deficiency.)
I ran your question by Sally Fallon Morell: “Yes, at age one, or even starting around age 8 months if the baby is mature enough, you can wean to straight raw cows milk. Sally”
Would goats milk be just as good or better to wean to?
Reply from Sally Fallon Morell: “Goats milk is low in folate and B12, so if it is used in weaning, be sure that baby is getting lots of folate- and B12-rich foods, like liver. Sally”
why 8 months?? can the baby have some raw milk before then? maybe not full bottle but maybe part of the bottle? I mean the formulas are based off raw milk, can baby have some in small doses?
Sally Fallon Morell replies: The raw milk formula is diluted with whey and has more lactose added to mimic mothers milk. So while you probably could give raw cows milk, the formula is better for the infant.
Hi i just made a batch of it from Radiant Life. I put it in the fridge and the entire thing coagulated. Not sure what to do with it now.
My sons is liking the raw milk formula, he has been in it 3 weeks now. The problem is at the last ounce he starts to cry and push bottle away. This happens at almost very feeding. Is there something in the formula that could be causing this? He’s 2 months and was on babys only organic and earths best before we started the raw formula he was also doing this but it was worse and he was severely constipated. Now his BM are loose.
Thank you
I showed your comment to Sally Fallon Morell, who said, “Since he was doing this on both types of formula, I can only imagine that he is telling you that he is full.”
We just put my daughter on pasturized goats milk b/c she cannot take any other type formula, even the neocate. she is finally sleeping and not crying constantly but we are now concerned (from what we are reading) that we need to supplement the goats milk with folic acid and b12. what formula would we use to add to her goats milk? Can you ehlp with this? Thank you so much!
I shared your comment with Sally Fallon Morell, who replied: “Really, they need to be giving the daughter the RAW milk formula, preferably cows milk. But if raw goat milk, then add the liver as per instructions, or feed it separately (if the child is 4 months or older) She will be missing a lot more than folic acid and B12 if only pasteurized raw milk is given. -Sally”
My son is 1 year 9 months now . Recently he is been passing his motion 4-5 times a day which is not normal for him as he used to pass motions only once a day. It also had foul smell something like I can relate to curd like smell. We did blood occult test on doctor’s recommendation n the test suggested just positive for blood occult, so his paediatrician is recommending he should not be given milk and milk products forever. Is this diagnosis correct. I can’t think of not offering yogurt n fresh milk as he just loves both. I also want to know how can we offer milk without heating to retain its full goodness. Thank you
What kind of milk or formula was he getting up to this point? Raw or pasteurized?
I live in Ohio where it is illegal to buy any raw milk. We have researched and found a local dairy that does not homogenize and uses low temperature pasteurization (145degrees for 30 min). I realize raw milk would be best, but it appears we don’t have that option here. Will this milk suffice? The dairy says this process only kills the harmful bacteria, but keeps the good qualities suck as the enzymes intact. If this will suffice, is there anything additional that should be added to the formula?
Thank you.
Raw milk is widely available in Ohio via cowshares. (It’s not illegal anywhere to BUY raw milk; the restrictions in place in each state dictate the conditions under which it may be SOLD. And in cowshares, you are not buying the milk at all; you are buying a cow or share of a cow or herd, and paying the farmer to take care of your animals and milk them for you. You are drinking the milk from your own animals; not buying the milk).
Check for the closest local chapter of the Weston A. Price Foundation here: http://www.westonaprice.org/local-chapters/find-local-chapter#oh and look into getting raw milk. It is much, much better than any kind of pasteurized milk.
You didn’t answer the question. Is it acceptable to use unhomogenized lightly pasteurized milk?
Sally Fallon Morell replies: Better not to, especially for very small babies. Raw milk is available almost everywhere. Contact your nearest local WAPF chapter.
I’m in Ohio where did u find the raw milk I can’t find anywhere
Webmaster note: I am adding this comment from Sally Fallon Morell to the comments I can find that discuss low temperature pasteurization (in other words her reply is not in direct response to your comment–it’s to an email I received, but I thought it would be informative and so wanted to share):
Sally Fallon Morell note: “Low temperature pasteurization” is just old fashioned pasteurization, heating the milk to 160 degrees. This is enough to destroy all or most of the enzymes. It might be better than the modern UHT pasteurization, which heats to 230 degrees and totally wipes out anything benefits in the milk, but it is still pasteurization. –Sally
Can I freeze the cows milk formula like breast milk? Thinking I could make a larger amount of formula then freeze some? How long does it stay good in the fridge after it’s made?
Yes, you can freeze it. And will stay good in fridge 3-4 days. But best to get into the habit of making it fresh daily or every other day. Sally
I have been trying to get an answer to this for some time. Sorry for the delay. Sally is looking for someone to survey all the commercial formulas. If I get an answer I’ll update this page.
Hi, my daughter is 9 months old and has been exclusively breastfed since day one, I am expecting baby #2 and have found my milk supply has dipped as I enter my 10th week of pregnancy. I want to avoid commercial formula at all costs, and am interested in supplementing some with either raw goat or cows milk. Would it be best to make the formula or would it be alright to give it to her alone? I’m hoping to make it to her first birthday with just supplementing 1-2 feedings per day. Thanks in advance for any advice!
From Sally Fallon Morell: “At nine months, it is fine to give the raw milk alone. And she needs solid foods–egg yolk, pureed meat and liver, custards, banana, etc. It really would be best to gradually wean her so your body can concentrate on building the next baby.”
I’m still a little nervous about giving my 6 month old baby raw milk. Unfortunately due to medical reasons my baby only breastfed for a very short time.
Do you think the “raw” milk formula would still be beneficial if I flash pasteurized the milk on the stove-top and then added back bifidobacterium infantis? Here is a method that I was using to flash pasteurize donor milk:
http://www.berkeley.edu/news/media/releases/2007/05/21_breastmilk-video.shtml
Sorry forgot to request to be notified about follow-up comments
If the health reasons are no longer an issue, and you want to, you can begin breast feeding again. I had weaned my daughter, and had stopped producing milk, but upon my daughter’s pediatrician’s recommendation, resumed (she had health problems that breastfeeding provided a solution to as opposed to gama globin injecitons). It is not difficult and I’d be happy to answer any questions you have if you’re interested in resuming breastfeeding. It saved my daughter’s life.
Hi Donna,
Does this mean you did what’s called “re-lactation”? Where your supply drops to nothing, and then you get it going again? In my case my supply is down to about half a teaspoon in each breast per day. I’d like to restart breastfeeding, but don’t know if I can get my supply back. Any guidance or advice?
Sally Fallon Morell replies: You might be able to relactate by giving the formula with the lact-aid, but it might not work for the liver formula–the tube might be too small.
Hi Sally. How much of the homemade liver based formula can I give my 7 mth old, 20 lb baby? I’ve read that you’re only supposed to give 2 x teaspoons of liver once a week. I’m concerned about Vitamin A and iron toxicity.
I’m concerned about vitamin A toxicity with liver formula. Is this a real issue with the formula? Is it less if using chicken liver?
From Sally Fallon Morell: “You can use chicken liver if you are concerned, this would be fine. We have had a number of babies brought up on this with no signs of vitamin A toxicity. Sally”
Hi Sally,
My baby is 10 and 1/2 months old and I was wondering if it was good to give my baby raw milk formula at that age? Also, how long should a baby be on the raw milk formula?
You may want to look at the raw milk formula FAQ on the Weston A Price Foundation site (see link at the top of this page). One of the FAQ says:
Q: At what age can we switch from formula to plain raw milk?
A: The answer to this depends on the age, weight and maturity of the child. A child that was premature, very small or delayed in development may benefit from taking the formula in a bottle well past the first year. But a child who is growing well, sitting up, eating solid foods and able to sip from a cup can probably transition to raw milk sometime after the 8th month.
So if you are using the raw milk formula now, you may want to consider beginning switching to just raw milk and solid foods.
In answer to the question of arsenic in Baby’s Only Formula, after researching this, I found that the arsenic levels were never at a harmful level (<1 ppm), but due to the controversy, the makers of this formula worked very hard to re-work the processing of the brown rice sugar and now have no detectable arsenic. https://www.naturesone.com/pdf/N1-Organic_Formula_Manufacturer_Leads_in_Eliminating_Arsenic_3-13.pdf#view=FitH,0
check the ingredient list at Vita Cost – could not get from any other place – tried to get a label. Toddler powder has
4 sources of msg – see the “Truth About Vitamins” online. Vitamins today are not the way they used to be – made from petroleum. cj fake vitamin e – I do not trust any company that will not provide a list of ingredients.
I am starting my two month old on the milk homemade formula. My pediatrician recommended using flash pasteurized non homogenized milk instead of raw to cut down on risk of infection. If I do this do I need to reculture the milk? And if so, what is the reasoning behind it? Thank you!
Sally Fallon Morell replies, “Do NOT flash pasteurize the milk, you will put your baby at much GREATER risk of infection and ruin all the good things in the milk. Sally”
how does flash pasteurize the milk put the baby at a great risk of infection?
Sally Fallon Morell replies: When you pasteurize milk, you kill all the components in milk that kill pathogens. For example, there has never been a case of illness from listeria from raw milk, but many cases and even deaths from listeria in pasteurized milk.
I am having trouble with ingredients settling at the bottom of the bottle and clogging the nipple making my baby frustrated. Is it OK to let the batch of formula settle then strain through mesh strainer or does anyone have tips on how to get everything to dissolve well?
From Sally Fallon Morell: When my daughter made this formula for my grandson, she mixed it in a blender and had no trouble with the ingredients clogging the nipple. But you could strain it if you want. Alternatively, leave out the yeast and see if it is easier for your baby.
We love the raw cow’s milk formula. My baby is a robust 6 month old. So much so that there have been some concerns by family about her robustness. (I think she’s fine, she’s just shy of 20lbs at 6 months and 26 inches, she’s not yet crawling, and I feel that when she starts crawling and is more mobile it’ll all be moot) Anyhow what can to show them or say to them to get them to stop nagging me, and to address their fears?
Sally Fallon Morell replies, “Is the baby getting solid food yet? I would be introducing food (along our guidelines) and cutting back on the formula.”
thanks for the reply!
I just started her on egg yolk, and she’s loving it. I’ll start liver very soon too. And I’ll reference the Nourishing Baby book for more ideas. I wonder if also using the liver formula would be beneficial?
Does a probiotic need to be added to the fortified commercial formula along with the cod liver oil?
can unsulphered blackstrap molassis be used for iron in place of liver in the goats milk variation? Also when raw milk is unavailable is Meyenberg powdered goats milk okay?
As long as it is prepared as recommended what is the better milk to offer, Goats or Cows as far as goats being more similiar in casein to whey as breastmilk wouldnt it be easier to digest or is this not true for raw cow milk?
If baby is allergic to cow milk will she be allergic to raw cow milk?
Reply from Sally Fallon Morell: (replying to each question in turn) “1) Liver is still better than blackstrap molasses. 2) We don’t recommend powdered goats milk. 3) As we have explained, goats milk is deficient in folate and B12, so cows milk is really better for babies. But if baby finds goat milk easier to digest, then you would need to add some liver to the formula to provide folate and B12. 4) Not necessarily, in fact the majority of babies and people “allergic” or intollerant to pasteurized milk do fone on raw milk.”
Why does the chicken liver need to be frozen for two weeks? My daughter is now 9 months, and at her last Dr. visit we found she was significantly anemic. I was supplementing about 1 bottle a day of raw goat milk from 6 months on, due to struggling with my milk supply. So I am now looking at using the raw goat milk formula. Can I make a first batch or two without freezing the livers for two weeks?
The recommendation for freezing the liver for two weeks is that the USDA says that freezing raw meat for two weeks kills any parasites that may be present. Sally Fallon recommends this step for all her raw meat dishes in the cookbook Nourishing Traditions.
My 3 month old has been using the raw milk formula for about a month and a half. He ha become pretty chroniclly constipated. Has anyone else had this problem. And can I add something to the formula to help. I was thinking I doubling the cod liver oil? But don’t want to mess with te nutritional content to his detriment. I would love your thoughts. Thank you.
Hi Rosalyn,
I wanted to know what you tried and if it worked. I saw your comment and my little 3 month old has also had a constipation problem after going on the Raw milk formula. Did you add something to the formula to help? I saw a comment from Sarah Pope that she suggested trying Kefir instead of Raw milk. All I could find was the skim milk raw kefir…I wasn’t sure if it needed to be whole milk kefir. help please.
I saw your comment and I have had the same issue. I just started my 4 mo old on the raw milk formula on 6/8/15. She has been constipated this week. I am planning to make my own kefir using kefir grains (they are reusable too), per the recommendation. However, I did consider weaning her off the commerical formula that she was eating before the switch. I am little concerned that the sodium content is too high and there is not enough water in the recipe. Is there anyone that can reply and add information?
Sally Fallon Morell replies: There are many solutions for constipation in The Nourishing Traditions Book of Baby & Child Care. For a stop gap measure, use a child suppository.
Hello, I tried this formula this morning with my 3 month old? I’m unable to nurse and she has been having issues with all the formula I’ve tried, her Ped think maybe a dairy allergy. So my question is, after trying this formula my daughter took a short nap, when she awoke she had terrible chest congestionwhich she’s never had before. You could hear all the mucus with every breath. It did clear up after a few hours, do you think this is a sign that dairy is just not for her??? And if so, what can I use???
Thanks for any help.
Sophie
Reply from Sally Fallon Morell: “No, I think it is a sign that the raw dairy is clearing her system of congestion. I would continue. Probably she will become congestion-free after a week or so. Sally”
Wondering if you kept feeding and what was the outcome?
Cream means heavy whipping cream. Half and half is whole milk and heavy cream. We call it cream but it’s not really *just* cream.
hi,
can someone please advise if i can make the the beef broth for the liver based formula weekly? sunday to sunday? will it keep in the fridge alone and/or made up into the formula?
just hoping to be able to make weekly batches on the weekend. r would it be best to make every 3 or 4 days?
any help would be great!
neisha
Sally Fallon Morell replies: Yes, you can make weekly batches of beef broth (it can also be chicken broth)
Hi,
Can you tell me how to 1) avoid the raw cows milk formula from separating in the fridge after I make it? It’s hard to get the oils to redistribute evenly. I was told that the white blood cells and enzymes in breast milk were very fragile and not to agitate the formula too strongly. Does it affect the homemade formula’s nutritional benefits to blend vigorously? 2) How do I best reheat the formula? What temp is too hot and kills the cells/denatured the proteins? I was looking for reheating directions on the recipie and in the Quick and A but didn’t see there.
My 8 1/2 month old baby girl tried and lived the cows milk formula today : )
Thank you!
Sally Fallon Morell replies: There is no other option but to blend it well and you can reblend if the formula has separated. Reheat by setting in a pan of simmering water, or in a bottle warmer. If it burns to the touch, it is too warm. Heat to just about body temperature. Glad your little girl liked it, most babies thrive on this formula.
The liver formula seems to be clearing up my 3 month old daughter’s eczema…that said, I can barely feed her, even with y or tri cut nipples, the formula is so thick (I use a blender and blend the heck out of the cooked liver and broth and then add the other ingredients, blend some more, and then pour the blended formula immediately into 4 oz glass bottles, pulsing each time I get ready to pour so ingredients do not settle to bottom of blender pitcher). I’m terrible at cutting y cuts or tri cuts into my avent nipplets and the pre cut y-cuts on the playtex drop in nurser bottles don’t accommodate the thick formula. I just wnt to keep feeding this stuff to my little girl, does anyone -anyone? – have any suggestions? Thanks…
I had originally posted a question about bottle nipples that accomodate the liver formula. ..seems as if I have found an answer (for the mixture using beef liver. I will be trying chicken liver beginning Monday and anticipate the nipples will accomodate that variation as well). FYI, as a tip to help whoever out there is making the meat based formula: while I have found that neither the fast flow nipples nor y-cut or tri-cut nipples from playtex drop in liners accomodate the thicker meat formula, however the variable flow “natural” nipples that fit the 4 and 8 oz. avent glass bottles work, as long as I really liquify the meat and broth to the point the meat turns into almost a foam. Hope that helps!
Sally Fallon Morell replies: Thanks for this input. Yes, that liver formula has helped lots of babies who couldn’t do any milk.
Hi! I have make the homemade raw milk formula for my daughter today! The first batch turned out great but the second one I think I didn’t blend it long enough because I made a bottle for her and there was all this stuff flowing on the bottom. I do have a question: what is the consistency of the formula…is it water and a little lumpy before you warm it up and if so is that how it is made and I made it right? Also, can you mix formula with breastmilk? And how long can it be in the refrigerator?
Sally Fallon Morell replies: The consistency should be smooth. If you have stuff on the bottom or lumps, blend again. Yes, you can mix the formula with breast milk. Best to use up within 3 days.
I have a comment about mixing formula and breast milk. If you have only a small amount of breast milk, it is best not to mix it with formula, for the sake of making sure that the breast milk all gets into the baby. What I did was prepare two bottles (or Lact-Aid nursing trainors), one with a few ounces of breast milk, and the other with formula. The baby would drink all of the breast milk, first and then, if he was still hungry, he could have the formula.
I have a question : the egg yolk for baby said that start giving at 4 months? But then it says to give after a year?….so..which is it? And would you feed with a spoon TBS, TSP..cup? or put in formula mix and blend …either why…how much?
Sally Fallon Morell replies: Egg yolk should start at 4-6 months, depending on the maturity of the baby. The egg is cooked 3 minutes, the white discarded. Salt is added and also some grated frozen liver if you want. Baby might only take less than a teaspoon at first, building up to the whole yolk.
I know this was over a year ago but with respect, I just want to address this. As long as you are healthy, and your pregnancy is normal/healthy, there is no reason to wean your child if you both still wish to continue your nursing relationship. You don’t need to wean so your body can “concentrate on building the next baby.” Both of your babies can get what they need, nature is awesome like that! If your supply drops significantly and your baby is too young for solids then it makes sense to supplement, but no need to fully wean. I continued to nurse my 16 month old through my pregnancy, and now I tandem nurse her and her brother. Her brother was extremely healthy (as is she) and even over a pound bigger than she was at birth, no nutritional deficiencies whatsoever. I also was healthier through my second pregnancy and postpartum. Raw cow and goat milk is absolutely awesome, but it isn’t custom made for your baby (or toddler) the way raw mama milk is. If you can, and want, to continue breastfeeding through your pregnancy and beyond, you can do so safely! And real raw milk will be an excellent boost to your own nutrition 🙂 See the fantastic Kelly mom website for great info on nursing while pregnant and tandem nursing. http://kellymom.com/pregnancy/bf-preg/official-tandem-bf-faq/
HI SALLY. I NEED TO KNOW WHAT YOU RECOMMEND FOR THE NUTRITIONAL YEAST. RADIANT LIFE IS OUT OF STOCK ON THE FRONTIER NUTRITIONAL YEAST AND THEY HAVE NO IDEA WHEN THEY WILL GET ANY, ALSO ALL OTHER WEBSITES I’VE TRIED ARE THE SAME OUT OF STOCK. I HAVE MY GRANDDAUGHTER ON THE COWS MILK BASED FORMULA AND IM CONCERNED ABOUT HER GETTING THE NUTRIENTS THAT SHE NEEDS IF I CAN NOT FIND ANY YEAST. PLEASE LET ME KNOW WHAT I CAN USE. I HAVE TO USE REGULAR WHOLE MILK FROM THE STORE SINCE I LIVE IN ARIZONA AND THERE IS NO WAY TO GET RAW MILK, NOT EVEN ORGANIC HOMOGENIZED. I WOULD APPRECIATE IT.
THANK YOU,
GIA
Sally Fallon Morell replies: Do NOT use pasteurized milk, your baby cannot digest it. You can get raw milk in Arizona, contact the WAPF chapter nearest you. Just make the formula without the nutritional yeast until they get it in stock.
My 6.5 months daughter is allergic to cows milk protein so the GI gave her pureamino formula but after finding out it was all gmo based and after she started having eczema I tried the goat milk formula. She loved the taste but her stool was watery from day 1 so thought it could be an allergic reaction and switched to the liver formula ( using chicken liver, dextrose, whey and rest of ingredients) and her stool became normal. She was doing well for a week but then decided to try beef liver and lactose and her stool became watery again. Have reverted back to chicken liver and dextrose but no improvement after few days so don’t know what to do anymore as I don’t want to go back to the commercial formula. Could it be the whey that she is reacting after some time? Could it be too much liver that causes diarrhea? I am traveling to Europe for a month in September so hoping to find a solution so I can organize all the ingredients for the formula while away. Many thanks.
Sally Fallon Morell replies: Have you tried the raw milk cow formula? I would do that first, perhaps leaving out the yeast and gelatin at first. Your daughter may do just fine on raw cow’s milk.
Hello, my daughter is 5 months old. I am needing to give her formula once I start my new job. I’ve pumped before but I don’t make as much milk anymore and wanted to find the best formula I can give her when I’m not there to breastfeed. Which of the homemade formulas would be best for just a bottle or two while I’m at work. She also eats homemade baby food so she gets the nutrients she needs, I just need something she won’t reject and is still good for her. I’m interested in the egg and meat based formula because I want breast milk to be the only actual milk she gets until she’s older when then I hope to give goats milk. Also, can any formula you make be frozen for later use? Thanks.
Kristin- if it’s helpful, I started may daughter on supplemental raw milk formula about 5 months. It’s gone great. I usually make 2 batches at a time and freeze. I’ve made up to 4 batches at a time (1/2 gallon milk makes 4 batches). I generally stick to 2 at a time and make it 2x/week based on how much I use. It has worked great to freeze and she tolerates it great- really seems to enjoy it.
Hi! How long do you freeze it for? I’m needing to plan ahead for vacation.
My baby is 1 1/2 months old. I breast feed but have to supplement with formula because I don’t have enough milk to satisfy him. I have tried every type of formula but everything gives him severe gas and colic. I don’t know what to do. Do you think the gas is due to milk allergies/lactose intolerance. I imagine if this is the case he won’t do well on a raw milk formula. Help!
Sally Fallon Morell replies: You can only try. There are lots of things in commercial formula that would be causing the gas and colic. Start with the raw cows milk formula and see how that works.
Is the cream you use the same you buy at the grocery store, used in deserts?
I want to make the goats milk formula but don’t want to add the chicken liver, is it ok just to omit?
Is there a metric version if the recipe (mls and liters) as I am in Australia and I think some of our measurements are different?
My daughter is 3 months old and not doing well on formula
Sally Fallon Morell replies: Please use the formula just as it is given. You can add 1/4 tsp. desiccated liver in place of the fresh liver if you want. Try to get the best cream you can. Pasteurized is OK, not ultrapasteurized. Contact your nearest chapter leader in Australia to help you find the best cream.
Hi there. My baby seems to have a sensitivity to casein.
We are also vegetarian.
Is there another substitute for the liver if I use goats milk?
And can it be pasteurized?
I cannot find a raw goats milk here in Durban South Africa
Why cant you microwave goat milk formula?? I mean yes, microwaving isn’t good for you, but every once in a while I have cold formula and a screaming baby who is waiting for it to warm up in a waterbath. Is every once in a while ok?
Sally Fallon Morell replies: NO, NO, NO. Absolutely not. Use a water bath.
My son is just days from 7 weeks, I have to stop breastfeeding due to inflammatory breast cancer.
Of the past 6 weeks I’ve noticed my son has a small intolerance to dairy in my diet. Should I start with the raw cows milk formula or just skip it and go for the liver?
Thank You
Our daughter, Ally Rose, was born March 21st of this year. She is adopted. After trying to get my milk flowing with a breast pump (did this for months before she was born), but having no success, we turned to the idea of using this formula. We had to use powdered formula for the first two weeks, as we waited in Pennsylvania (where she was born) for them to allow us to bring her home to California. We used the Baby’s Only Organic formula for these first two weeks. The day after we got home to California, I mixed the first batch of formula using our goats’ milk. I have been adding the yeast flakes (though I did have to reduce the amount to 1 tsp per batch due to some of the clogging issues that are mentioned). I was adding the liver at first, but we discovered that this upset her stomach and caused some constipation. After some research, we decided to add a raw egg yoke instead of the liver. I only added the liver/egg yoke every other day. Whenever I add the egg yoke, I also add 1 oz of prune juice to help counteract the constipation. This is working beautifully. Ally Rose is 5 1/2 mos old and the doctor says she is very very healthy. She is our chunky monkey and so happy! We have begun egg yolk feeding, which has taken some time for her to get used to. I mix the yolk with a bit of raw, fresh goat’s milk to make it creamy. I also freeze the formula by pouring 6 oz into a small half pint canning jar and sealing it with the metal lid and ring they come with. I use brand new jars that have not been heated. The rings can be reused indefinitely, but the lids can only be reused about 6 times. The jar fits into the bottle warmer and takes about 10 – 12 minutes to warm up instead of the 5 minutes that the formula from the fridge takes to warm up. We are so happy to have found this for our baby and, if God gives us another little one, we will definitely use it again! Thank you so much!!
I just want to add that this raw egg yolk is from eggs from our free range, organically fed chickens. So we know there is no contamination and we know that the eggs are healthy.
I am in search of a lactose and soy free formula for my 10 week old. He has been diagnosed with lactose intolerance. But I don’t want to give him a soy based formula. I was directed here by my doula. She recommended the goats milk recipe, and my question is, is that you include lactose in the recipe. Should I remove that if it needs to be lactose free?
I imagine you’ve found something by now, but thought I would comment! Did your doctor say that your baby had a genetic condition, called primary lactase deficiency? It is extremely rare, and is the only thing that causes long-term lactose intolerance in infants. The vast majority of people who are lactose intolerant develop that when they are older. Infants can also have temporary lactose intolerance, due to an inflammation of the GI tract, or to extreme overfeeding. Lactose free formulas can be helpful, temporarily, but a return to milk containing lactose is usually best.
I hope your and your baby are doing well!
I have started the raw cows milk formula as of yesterday. I supplement two feedings per baby in 24hrs. My babies are 1 month old. Seems as if their bowel movements have slowed up since. Is this normal and ok? What can I do to help them pass if they are constipated?
Sally Fallon Morell replies: OK for baby to have 1 bowel movement per day. If constipated, use a suppository.
can I put on my formula half milk and half cream? because my raw milk is thin.
Sally Fallon Morell replies: Maybe not half cream, but 1/4 cream.
Hello – unfortunately I’ve had a tremendously difficult time breastfeeding. Would like to implement one of these alternative baby formulas. Is the raw cow milk or raw goats milk best? Also, should only egg yolks be introduced at 4-6 months of age or are there any other foods that are beneficial? How much egg yolk should they be receiving per day at these ages? Thanks so much!
Sally Fallon Morell replies: Cows milk is best. See The Nourishing Traditions Book of Baby and Child Care for infant feeding schedules.
Started giving the raw milk formula at 2weeks. she developed eczema and a nasty diaper rash. She is now 4 months and still has eczema and the diaper rash. Nothing as helped including soaking in the tub, spraying her with grapefruit seed extract at diaper changes , coconut oil, and even Lotrimin. So this past Sunday I decided to give the liver formula a try and it seems as if the diaper rash is worst! Not sure what to do any advice? Could it be the lactose? if its a yeast diaper rash?
Sally Fallon Morell replies: Could be the lactose. Leave it out of the formula for a few days and see.
If using desiccated liver instead of frozen liver in the goat’s milk variation, how much do you recommend adding per batch?
Sally Fallon Morell replies: It is 1/4 teaspoon per batch.
Hi, I am living in El Salvador and have a 4 month old baby girl. I wanted to exclusively breastfeed her, but I do not have enough supply and I can’t pump since my baby had tongue and lip tie and we could not correct it on time because she refuses to nures. I cannot get safe goat or cow’s milk here and I cannot get organic liver. I want so badly to make her formula, but the best I can do is order powdered goats milk. Do you think it is okay to try this formula with the powdered goat’s mlik without the liver? What can I add besides liver? I hate feeding her commercial formula and she is constantly struggling to poop. I have started feeding her egg yolks – she even prefers that to the bottle. Thank you!
I forgot to check to notify me with follow up comments. 🙂
Sally Fallon Morell replies: I would use commercial formula for awhile, but introduce homemade baby foods as soon as possilbe. Give her pureed liver, even if it is not organic.
With the homemade whey im wondering if it can get the baby sick? And when putting it in the glass jar to sit out for a couple nights do you put a lid on it?
Sally Fallon Morell replies: The whey can drain overnight, but after that it goes into the fridge.
HI. I’m wanting to make the liver formula. How do I make the beef stock? I have the marrow bones. I bought 3 pounds. How much water do I add to the three pounds. Do I add water as it simmers? I read in one blog on a different site to let it simmer for 12 hours. Can I freeze the broth so it will last longer? How long does broth last in the frig? Also, the one site said to add some vinegar to the broth as it cooks. How much do I add? Thanks
Sally Fallon Morell replies: Please use the recipes in Nourishing Traditions. You can also use chicken stock.
Our son turned 1 year on 10/20. His blood work showed hemoglobin at 9.4 hemotocrite 29.4. He was born early – due date was 11/20.
He recently has been drinking raw milk and breastmilk. Prior to this he was drinking goat’s milk and breastmilk – at times 50/50. The goat’s milk was not made into the formula. Was guided by holistic pediatrician at the time and we did not know of this recipe.
We are considering making the formaula for him? He does eat solids, drink from a cup and sitting up? He’s not crawling but walking with assistance. We were giving him liver regularly but have not in some time. Are starting to do so again. We do not want to give him presription iron replacement. We are planning to give dandelion root and yellow dock.
We need some guidance and help.
Should we provide this formula as the supplement to breastmilk instead of plain raw milk?
Thank you
Sally Fallon Morell replies: At one year, you can give him raw milk, no need to do the formula. Yes, he should get liver–preferably poultry liver made into pate. Cod liver oil will help also–you cant’ absorb iron without vitamin A.
When making the liver formula are the broths meat or bone broth? when I am making the broth can I make as normal with meat , bones, onions, garlic and other veggies, lemon or ACV, and salt and pepper?
Sally Fallon Morell replies: Should be both meat and bone. I’d leave out the garlic.
Hello,
Thanks for such a wonderful and informative website. I have read through all the Q&A on Westen A Price page and also all the comments and replies on this site, but I have a few additional questions I’m really hoping you can answer for me.
1) Can I mix half formula and half human breast milk in feedings? (I have a month’s worth of breast milk in my deep freeze that I was able to save before my milk supply ended.)
2) Can the formula be left out at room temperature for a certain amount of time after being warmed? For example breast milk is ok at room temp for 6 hours.
3) What kind of symptoms would indicate a reaction and how quickly would they appear after starting the formula feeding?
4) Can I freeze the raw milk, cream, and yogurt/whey in the recipe increments then thaw and make formula fresh every day (as to avoid several trips to the store a week)?
5) Can I mix the egg/liver/salt combination into the formula?
6)Does the yogurt need to be raw? I have not been able to find raw yogurt, but I found pasteurized yogurt from grass fed cows.
Thank you so much for a response and for all the support!
Sally Fallon Morell replies:
1) Can I mix half formula and half human breast milk in feedings? (I have a month’s worth of breast milk in my deep freeze that I was able to save before my milk supply ended.)
Yes, that is fine.
2) Can the formula be left out at room temperature for a certain amount of time after being warmed? For example breast milk is ok at room temp for 6 hours.
Maybe an hour or so, but I would not take a chance with leaving it out longer, due to the other ingredients.
3) What kind of symptoms would indicate a reaction and how quickly would they appear after starting the formula feeding?
Crying/colic, digestive (diarrhea/constipation) and skin problems (rashes). Crying/colic would show up right away, the others might take longer.
4) Can I freeze the raw milk, cream, and yogurt/whey in the recipe increments then thaw and make formula fresh every day (as to avoid several trips to the store a week)?
Yes this is fine.
5) Can I mix the egg/liver/salt combination into the formula?
Better to feed on a spoon, it will clog the nipple of the bottle.
6)Does the yogurt need to be raw? I have not been able to find raw yogurt, but I found pasteurized yogurt from grass fed cows.
Yes, that is fine.
Sally,
My baby has been diagnosed with the following allergies: dairy, egg, fish, shellfish and peanut, tree nuts. I am nursing so I have cut all these things out of my diet as well (dr.’s orders). I’m concerned about his nutrition…I guess mine too. What are some things you recommend we eat.
Sally Fallon Morell replies: What about raw dairy? it’s worth trying to see whether baby reacts to that. Otherwise, follow our dietary guidelines. Make lots of chicken liver pate, using ghee instead of butter. LOTS and LOTS of bone broth. Would be good if you could at least take cod liver oil.
How do you keep the oils from separating? Is that what the gelatin is for?
Sally Fallon Morell replies: When you make the formula, blend well in a blender. Make fresh every day. Before serving a bottle, shake very well.
I’m an adoptive mother of six adopted kids (and four grandkids!). I breastfed, and produced milk, but still had to supplement with formula. I made formula from raw goat milk, with my youngest son, born in 1993. The only commercial formula he could, or would, take, was soy. I induced lactation by providing supplement at the breast, with the Lact-Aid, so that my breasts (and senses) got the stimulation to produce milk. I’m allergic to soy and having my breasts bathed in soy formula was like pouring acid on them. The choices were to either bottle feed soy, or nurse him, and find some alternative to commercial formulas. I decided on goat milk. I couldn’t find a recipe, except the one from the Meyenberg company, which only added water and corn syrup to it, and one in a century old medical book. I came up with something that worked, but I didn’t have information about what oils to use.
I had actually used goat milk with my fourth baby, but I didn’t make a formula out of it, because she was older when I got her. She was very underweight. While thinking of what all to feed her, I remembered that the woman I was buying that goat milk from had said to shake it up before using it. That gave me an idea of a way to come up with goat milk with a higher fat content. Goat milk is largely naturally homogenized, but not completely. If you put a quart in a tall, glass, bottle overnight, then hold it up to a light, you will see that the top part is more opaque than the bottom part. I started putting it in bottles with narrow necks, upside down. In the morning, I held it over a bowl, opened the cap and drained out some of the skimmer milk, which I save for another use, and fed my daughter the higher fat milk. She grew into a happy, chubby, little thing!
I wondered if someone might be able to use that information, to have more cream in the raw, organic milk, rather than adding cream from cows!
my baby of 1 year doesn’t want to eat, only take raw milk formula hit with banana and sweet potato, cream cheese with butter and yolk and liver hit with yogurt and broth. What do you think about that?
Sally Fallon Morell replies: This sounds OK. Gradually try to give other foods.
OK, I’m calmer, but another question, my baby just wants to hit the bottle instead of a spoon. what you say about it? But it’s a very healthy baby, never got sick.
I’m sorry, by “hit the bottle” you’re saying the baby wants only to drink formula (with the stuff you’ve added) and not eat solid foods? She’s a year old, and you’re asking whether she ought to be interested in solid foods, is that right?
That’s right, 1 year old and just wants to take the bottle with the food. Not solid.
Sally Fallon Morell replies: Have you tried setting baby at the table with the rest of the family eats–so she can see others eating and wants to imitate?
I’m not sure if you’re still experiencing problems with solid foods, but if you are, look into Sensory Processing Disorder. Your baby could have a sensory aversion to the feel of solid food, or even the spoon, or both. My daughter has SPD, without feeding issues, but my friend’s son has SPD and at 2 1/2 still only wants liquids with occasional purees. An occupational therapist can help make a smooth transition (early intervention will usually provide one for free up until 3 years old), but if that isn’t possible you can also find tips online. I hope this helps if you’re still struggling!
Yes, I tried everything you can imagine. The only thing that eats solid yolk with cream cheese, but liver, sweet potatoes, fruit, liquefied only in a bottle with formula of raw milk and yogurt.
Sally Fallon Morell replies: How is the baby doing healthwise? If the baby is healthy, I would not worry about it. Eventually the baby will stop using a bottle and eat with a spoon and fork.
the baby is very healthy, never got sick, perfect teeth, very smart, but people are talking about him not eating like the other spoon, so I worry. Follow your book correctly, my only problem is eating solids.
Thanks sally, so I don’t have to worry anymore?
Because people criticize about him not eating properly with the spoon and solids.
There is no problem in beating the liver with yogurt and formula?
my baby is very healthy, never gets sick.
Follow correctly your book, but my only problem has been eating solids and spoon, bottle only.
Sally Fallon Morell replies: The good health is the main thing. No need to worry. The first time he goes to a 2-yr-old birthday party, he will get the idea that he shouldn’t be using a bottle.
I’m wondering if you have heard about holle organic formula? And what your thoughts are about it? I have had to supplement with formula for the last 4 months because my milk supply is not enough, probably be cause I’ve has to pump because he refuses to breast feed, but I try and get as much breast milk as possible I usually now only get about 2 ounces out evry 6 hours, then give the rest formula. What do u think about that brand? And if I should be adding any supplements to it?
Sally Fallon Morell replies: This formula is a highly processed product (see ingredients below). The worst thing about it is that it has NO saturated fat!! Best to make the baby formula.
Sylvia P. Onusic, PhD, CNS, LDN, board-certified and licensed nutritionist, writer and researcher, replies: Holle Organic Formula is a German product. Its ingredients are: Skimmed milk**, whey powder* partly demineralised, vegetable oils*, maltodextrin*, calcium carbonate, potassium chloride, sodium chloride, vitamin C, vitamin E, ferrous lactate, zinc sulphate, niacin, Calcium-D-pantothenate, copper sulphate, vitamin A, vitamin B1, vitamin B6, manganese sulphate, vitamin B2, potassium iodate, folic acid, vitamin K, sodium selenate, vitamin D. *from organic farming **from biodynamic farming
Where are the saturated fats? Vegetables oils; who knows what kind. It’s highly processed of course. I am not certain what demineralised means, but it can’t be good. Skimmed milk. The selenium is a poor selenium salt, any supplement that is oxide or sulphate is not absorbed, if at all. Zinc poor source.
My opinion is that she could do much better with the WAPF formula. Sarah Pope’s videos, etc. This is a highly processed product with inadequate nutrition to raise a healthy baby.
My baby is 6 months old and we just introduced her to egg yolk mixed with a little homemade chicken broth. She loves it! I was wondering if would be appropriate to follow her egg yolk dinner with a bottle of straight broth. I exclusively breastfeed, and my supply is just enough for her, but it would be nice to have Daddy give her a few ounces of broth between feedings. What do you think? Thank you!
Sally Fallon Morell replies: Yes, that would be great for your baby–and also for Mom!
Hello,
We made the raw milk baby formula for our baby because he does not get enough from my breast milk but he got an allergic reaction (bumps on face and neck similar to eczema). We’ve been reading goats milk is a good alternative but we also read if baby is allergic to cow milk he will also be allergic to goats milk because they contain similar proteins. What do you suggest?
Sally Fallon Morell replies: Try the goat milk and see how he does. Also, try the cow milk formula without the yeast flakes or gelatin and see if this helps.
Your article states that the nutritional yeast flakes are essential for providing sufficient enough folic acid — is there something that can be substituted for the yeast flakes? After trying to eliminate/change out other ingredients, our eczema problem remains and is worsening. Suspicious of the yeast flakes at this point.
Sally Fallon Morell replies: Yes, take them out. As soon as baby is 4-5 months old, try giving the egg yolk or pureed liver, which will supply folate.
Sally,
reading some of your articles, I am faced with a doubt strong.
I live in Brazil, unfortunately, do not have access to raw milk and pure, finding only raw milk from cows that consume organic corn and undergo the milking machine, I have a 1 year old son who takes this raw milk, go ahead with this milk or not?
Sally Fallon Morell replies: Yes this milk is fine–all cows are milked with a milking machine, and organic corn is fine. This would be a great food for your son.
I was wondering if the formulas could be used with peg tubes or if they are too thick? I was also wondering if they were safe for all babies. For example a premie or a baby who is developmentally challenged? I am just interested in healthier options for infants with peg tubes than the can feeds.
Sally Fallon Morell replies: What are peg tubes? But the formula can probably be used with them. For a premie, I would try to get raw mother’s milk. But if that is not available, you could certainly try the raw milk formula.
Hello,
With all effort to birth my breech baby naturally I ended up with emergency c section. Breastfeeding was very difficult, we had various issues from the beginning. I breastfed for 4 mths than had to give formula. We recently discovered the raw milk formula and have started her on it. She is7 mths. We also started her on egg yolk and bone broth which she loves. She has seemed very happy and more alive on these nutrients. Just recently she began getting eczema on her back. Could this be a potential detox from the commercial formula? Shall I be alarmed or continue and keep my eye on it? She is so healthy otherwise. Just hoping to give her gut the best possible going forward.
Sally Fallon Morell replies: I would not worry about it–much more important that she seems happy on her new foods. See The Nourishing Traditions Book of Baby & Child Care for treatments for the eczema. Another thing I have discovered recently is apple cider vinegar topically on the rash–this can often clear up eczema.
Is it absolutely necessary to put the cream in the raw cow milk recipe?
Sally Fallon Morell replies: No–if baby is doing well, it is not necessary.
Hi Sally- my baby is a week shy of her first birthday. I was exclusively breastfeeding her until about a month ago when I started supplementing with commercial formula 🙁 She is a tiny 1 year old (14.5 lbs). Her doctor is now pushing me to start her on products for toddlers such as Pediasure (ie sugar water). Should I try her on the raw milk formula or is there a different recipe for toddlers? She needs more calories than just raw milk. Thanks!
Sally Fallon Morell replies: You baby needs solid food!! No traditonal culture in the world does exclusive breastfeeding past 6 months. Yes, they often breastfeed for many years, but not exclusive breastfeeding. Please see our recommendations for feeding babies–start with liver puree and egg yolk. Mashed banana and avocado will also help your baby gain weight. And at her age, you can just give raw milk, perhaps with cream added, formula is not necessary . The extra calories should come from solid food–with plenty of fats. She should also be getting cod liver oil.
Some links to start:
http://www.westonaprice.org/health-topics/feeding-babies/
http://www.westonaprice.org/health-topics/nourishing-a-growing-baby/
http://www.westonaprice.org/health-topics/foods-to-tantalize-toddlers-preschoolers/
More articles here:
http://www.westonaprice.org/childrens-health/
She absolutely is eating solids! Sorry, I meant she was exclusive of formula until about a month ago. We are seeing a GI doc bc of chronic constipation and failure to thrive. She suggested she needed more fluids/calories from formula bc she thought I was likely not producing enough milk. She isn’t even on the growth chart anymore 🙁 So for catch up, she recommended we switch to Pediasure. Solids would be secondary to the supplementation. Your thoughts?
I know you advise no need to do the formula after 1 year, just raw milk, but isnt there still nutritional benefit in continuing it? I order some grass fed beef and free range soy free chicken from the Amish and make my bone broth from that and try to only buy organic vegetables but I would say about 50% of what I buy is just from the grocery store. I was thinking continuing the formula would “fill in the nutritional gap”…. Or no?
Sally Fallon Morell replies: The raw milk is very nutritious for your baby, you really don’t need to make the formula. Be sure to give cod liver oil separately, and at least one egg yolk per day, also liver puree 2-3 times per week.
Hi, I recently switched my 6 mo old to the raw milk formula (but with cultured milk) and he is loving it but not drinking nearly as much formula as he was breastmilk (about 30 oz when he used to eat 40 or more). I am concerned because he used to be such a voracious eater. I know formula fills little tummies up more, but how much would you recommend he eat during the day? I still breastfeed him at night when he wakes up but it’s mostly for soothing.
Sally Fallon Morell replies: Just keep track of his weight and if he is gaining, then it should be fine. And at this age he should start getting solid food, such as egg yolk and pureed liver.
Thank you Sally! He is eating plenty of solids, fruits and veggies only though, I haven’t tried egg yet and I haven’t been able to find a reputable source of chicken liver. He’s not losing any weight but the sudden decrease made me nervous.
Hello, my 1 year old baby has diarrhea makes 5 continuous days, what’s best for her? I tried potato, carrot, coconut water, whey and broths and not getting results.
Sally Fallon Morell replies: You need to take her to a holistic physician. Check with your nearest local chapter of the Weston A. Price Foundation for recommendations.
We adopted a little girl that just turned 5 weeks old and we had been feeding her commercial formula (we didn’t know better) for a month and just switched from commercial formula to the raw milk formula. She was drinking between 850-950 ml a day on commercial formula and would mostly drink the whole bottle. We have been giving her the raw milk formula for 3 days and two things have changed, each of the days have only been around 650 ml and she drinks the bottle down easy and happy until the last half oz…then she gets crazy mad and won’t take it. Is it the oils? Is the less food ok because of the better nutrients?
Sally Fallon Morell replies: You will need to watch her weight carefully. If she is gaining weight, then the lesser amount is fine. Are you making the formula in a blender? This should take care of the oils separating.
Yes her weight is gaining steadily and she is vibrant, looks so healthy and has grown in her intake per day. I think she just needed time to adjust to the raw milk, after a bout 7-10 days, she was eating the whole bottle and even asking for more. We noticed that she has less nasal congestion and less gas. We have been on the milk based formula for 4 weeks now and we noticed that she has really struggled with pooping. Her little body is absorbing almost everything in the formula but bowel movements seem to be painful and constipated. They are coming out too hard to form, almost like deer/rabbit poop or little rocks, even a little blood once. We have been adding a little prune juice but do you have a good suggestion for a long term solution? Thank you for taking so much time to answer questions.
Sally Fallon Morell replies: For immediate treatment, give her a baby suppository. Give the prune juice separately. Also, try giving her a little broth. There is also a “digestive” tea for constipation in the Nourishing Traditions Book of Baby & Child Care.
Sally, I wanted to comment on your reply that human milk and formula can be mixed. I am an IBCLC. Human milk should NOT be mixed with formula, any formula, because the lactoferrin in human milk will be overwhelmed by the added iron, even from liver. Lactoferrin “soaks up” excess iron in the gut which prevents bacteria from using it for fuel. When using human milk and formula, I recommend to my clients that they breastfeed or breast milk feed first, then supplement with formula. If supplementing at the breast, it is better to start a feeding without the supplementer in place, then add it after some time, which will vary depending on the baby. If the amount of human milk is very small, like just a small puddle in a container, then I tell clients they can add formula to it, just because the human milk would not otherwise get into the baby.
Also, I like Earth’s Best formula (vs. Baby’s Only) because its sugar is lactose, rather than syrup. Lactose is brain food, and babies need it.
Sally Fallon Morell replies: Many, many people have mixed breast milk with formula, including myself and my daughter, and did not have any problems with anemia–the babies all had rosy cheeks. There is lactoferrin in ALL milk.
Sally,
my baby is 1 year, can beat in milk in the morning a whole raw egg (yolk and white)
I live in Brazil and I’m moving out of the city, where they live, I no longer have access to raw milk in this city only sells organic not pasteurized. How do I do?
Sally Fallon Morell replies: By one year, your baby should be EATING the egg yolk (NEVER give raw white) and eating a lot of solid foods, such as pureed liver and meat. Follow the guidelines in The Nourishing Traditions Book of Baby & Child Care. Can you get raw milk occasionally? If so, it is fine to freeze it. If you can’t get raw milk, just give baby water, and make sure he gets plenty of cheese, good quality yoghurt, etc.
Hello,
I saw a link on here that had detailed instructions on how to travel with the formula (specifically flying). I cannot find it now (I’m probably just overlooking it somewhere). I have searched your site with different terms, but I’m still not seeing it. Help please.
Thank you so much!
You may have clicked through to the FAQ we have on the Weston A. Price Foundation site (http://www.westonaprice.org/health-topics/faq-homemade-baby-formula/). If you search the page for “travel” you’ll see these Q&A:
Q: Can I freeze the formula? What is the best method to thaw? I am guessing warm water. I would freeze the formula in mason freezer jars that are 8-ounce capacity.
A: We recommend making the formula fresh daily—this is part of your new baby routine. The exception might be when you are traveling and yes, you can set the jars in warm water to thaw. However, raw milk may be frozen with no ill effects. Many parents must drive long distances to pick up their raw milk, and the solution to this is to obtain it in large quantities and freeze it. When the raw milk thaws, there will be small clumps of cream that can be smoothed out with a whisk or by putting the milk in a blender.
Q. What is the shelf life of the formula? Do I have to prepare it daily?
A. Daily is better but you can make it every other day if you need it while traveling or if your baby only takes a small amount.
Q. Can the formula be left out at room temperature for a certain amount of time after being warmed? For example breast milk is ok at room temp for 6 hours.
A. I would not leave it out too long, because of the other ingredients. If you are traveling, keep it in a cooler.
I have been using the raw cow’s milk formula for a little over a month and just recently started to add in the homemade whey. It works well MOST of the time but sometimes when i pre-make the formula into jars and go to use the last bit of formula before I make a new batch it curdles when i heat it up on low..? It wastes the last batch and I am considering not adding the whey. Am i doing something wrong? from what I understand the whey can have a pretty good shelf life.. They formula in my fridge that curdles when heated is usually only in the fridge for less than a week! Is there a substitute I can use? If the curdling normal? SOS
PS BEST formula for baby we have tried yet and we are sticking with it.
Sally Fallon Morell replies: You need to make the formula every day! Not leave it in the fridge for a week! Also, be sure you are using whey made from yoghurt or kefir, and not from cheese–cheese whey will make it curdle.
Sally Fallon Morell, I have been making the formula for almost 3 months now and do not use whey from cheese. I also make a fresh batch everyday. What else could cause the formula to curdle within 10 minutes of making it? The batch I made this morning curdled and this is a new developement as I have not had any issues till now. Nothing (that i know of) has changed. I follow the recipe for raw cows milk when making the formula.
I’m wondering, could the formula curdle if the gelatin is not dissolved enough?
SFM replies: This is mysterious. You are using raw milk, right? Yes, keep out the gelatin and see if it works better.
In regards to the writer asking about their formula curdling: that happened to me after months of successful use and I realized that it was the cream in the recipe. It became very sensitive to reheating and when I would heat one of my baby’s bottles it would curdle. I don’t know why it was fine for months, but my baby was well on her way to sturdiness so I was not worried about a little less fat! I would be afraid to remove the gelatin as I understand that it is necessary to aid digestion of the raw milk.
Also..DO I need to put the mixture in the blender every time before serving to baby? Or will shaking suffice?
Sally Fallon Morell replies: Shaking should suffice.
Hi Sally, my baby is now 11 months and I breastfed him for nearly 11 months. He is allergic/intolerant to diary, wheat, coconut , almond, sugar and soy. I am currently finding a suitable formula to replace my breastmilk. Do you recommend that I make the raw milk formula or is it sufficient to give him just raw cows milk? My boy likes his solid food very much including chicken broth.
Thanks Sally
Fiona
Sally Fallon Morell replies: At this age you can just give the raw milk–hopefully this will work for him
I have a daughter that is 100% gtube fed. She is 8 months old and just last week I switched her to raw goats milk (had terrible intolerance to every formula she has tried). I am planning to start her on a blended diet and wondered what kinds/quantities of foods can I give her now that will have enough folate and the other missing nutrients that she needs instead of adding all of this stuff to her milk? I have already introduced oatmeal, sweet potatoes and mango which she tolerates very well. I also plan to start her on egg yolks later this week. Thank you.
Sally Fallon Morell replies: I would make the formula with the added liver–that will give her plenty of folate.
Hello, my husband and I just adopted a baby born 3 weeks ago. After she was started on Enfamil in the hospital, we transitioned her to raw cows milk formula when she was 5 days old. She had some constipation at first due to the switch but regular BM’s now. I am concerned about a couple things, wondering if it’s just infancy or reaction to cows milk. She is pretty consistently fussy each day (usually evenings) or if she’s hungry. During feedings she cries a lot when we try to burp her in the middle of a 3 ounce bottle and roots, so I know it’s b/c she is still hungry. But sometimes after a bottle she still cries and I can’t tell if it’s gas or she is still hungry (because sometimes she still roots). She also recently broke out in baby acne all over her face. No apparent rash anywhere else though. Overall she seems to drink the formula really well. Sometimes drinks it too fast and then spits up. Any thoughts as to whether her demeanor is b/c she is only 3 weeks old and growing or if it could be that she isn’t tolerating the cows milk? Thanks!!
Sally Fallon Morell replies: Hopefully by now she has settled down. Remember, you do not know how the mother of your adopted baby ate, so your baby might have some digestive issues. If problems persist, try the goat milk formula or the liver formula. Be SURE not to tell the adoption agency that you are giving the homemade formula, and if possible, avoid all vaccinations.
Hi there! Babies develop facial acne when they are several weeks old; it is completely normal and nothing to worry about. It will go away shortly.
As this is a nutrition site (unless I am mistaken), I’m not sure why Ms Morell is advising against vaccinations.
Sally Fallon Morell replies: See our position statement here: http://www.westonaprice.org/uncategorized/wapf-position-on-vaccinations/. Our upcoming summer journal issue will focus on vaccinations.
HELP!
I started my baby on the homemade formula with the raw cow milk a week ago i thought everything was going good 2 days after starting the formula her tummy was getting super bloated and she was throwing up some gushy things and a lot of it. I took out the yeast completely and only added one teaspoon of gelatin when it calls for two. Her belly was still getting bloated but not as much and she was not throwing up so thought i would keep an eye on it. Today my daughter threw up a lot with chunks of some white things when i picked it up and felt it was super hard and it felt like rubber. I can’t believe my baby had that stuff in her belly and that it passed through her throat. It is very scary. I really want this homemade formula to work i don’t want to go back to commercial formula and I’m not able to breastfeed. Does anyone know whats causing this? Which ingredients could possibly be causing this? How can i start the process of elimination and how does it work? Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thank you
Sally Fallon Morell replies: Are you using RAW milk? This could very well happen with pasteurized milk. But if it is happening with raw milk, I would switch to the liver formula.
Hello
Looking into making baby formula. Most call for raw milk which I can’t get here in Toronto. What else can I use? Thank you
We do know of some providers in Ontario and Toronto. Visit this web page for more information: https://www.realmilk.com/real-milk-finder/other-countries/#can
My son is 1 and a half, this weighing 22libras and 30inches. The pediatrician said that it is small. But like everything correctly as the book, many egg yolks, cod liver oil, raw milk, don’t eat many solids, refuses to many foods for babies, livers.
Do you offer variations on this formula to accommodate for the changes in baby nourishment needs that occur during the first year? I.e. that they have different nutritional needs in the first three months, second three months, 6mos – 1yr, etc. Thanks!
Sally Fallon Morell replies: No we don’t offer variations. What we do insist on is that by 6 months, baby is given iron-rich solid food like liver, meat and egg yolks. Baby will not get enough iron from either breast milk or formula after 6 months.
I am not making enough milk for my almost 9-month old baby, and my stash of frozen milk is almost out. Depending on the day, I need to supplement with anywhere from maybe 1-4 ounces. Would I be fine with going straight to raw milk, especially since I’m only supplementing a little bit? She is on the smaller side, probably about the 25 percentile and she is not crawling yet, but otherwise developing normally. Does it matter if it is A1 or A2? Thanks 🙂
Also, is there a reason that I would need to warm the milk if she is fine with drinking it cold?
Sally Fallon Morell replies: Yes, fine to use just raw milk, it should help her grow. I wouldn’t worry about A1 or A2 as long as it is whole raw milk from pastured cows.
Regarding the temperature: Baby has to put a lot of energy into warming that cold milk. Just set the bottle in a pan of simmering water to warm it.
I made the formula, i guess it was to thin because he wanted more than the 4-5 oz that he normally takes. Also, when it sits in the fridge after awhile it seperates, what can I do about that. Please help, I really want him on the best formula.
Sally Fallon Morell replies: You can cut back on the whey a little bit but it sounds like your baby is just hungry, so fine to give him more. As for separation, make the formula every morning using a blender. It should not separate much during 1 day, but if it does, just shake it vigorously.
I have a 10 month old baby. She is eating solids and has been on breast milk only. I plan to fed her until 1 year old but recently I have noticed that I am loosing mire than normal and I am extremely tired and I am loosing a lot od weight. My OBGYN recommended that I stop breastfeeding and switch to formula but I can’t do that to my baby. I saw your receipi about Raw Milk Baby Formula but I wanted to know if I could jyatr give her the raw milk instead without the other ingredients?
Sally Fallon Morell replies: Yes, at this age you can just give her whole raw milk, you don’t need to make the formula. Follow the feeding guidelines in The Nourishing Traditions Book of Baby and Child Care.
Our four month old baby has been on the raw milk formula since the end of her 2nd month. She has responded extremely well! As she approached her 4th month she was needing so much formula to keep her satisfied that we consulted w/ her pediatrician and decided to start solids – namely egg yolk and avacado (not at the same time). She loved it and ate it well, but as the quantity increased (up to 1 yolk a day after 2 weeks) her diapers became very liquidy. She also appeared to be in distress only 4 days after beginning the solids, but I thought it was teething related (not sleeping well, yanking on her ear, and much fussiness – which is not her norm). We figured out that it was the solids and as soon as we stopped them she returned to normal. I assume that her little body just doesn’t quite have the digestive enzymes required yet and I plan to wait to restart this. My husband is concerned because she had very little weight gain from her 2nd week through her 7th week due to my lost milk supply (which I did not realize). So, even though she’s gaining wonderfully now, he’s concerned and wants me to try something else. I don’t want to put her in distress again – she was miserable! Do you have any thoughts – either reinforce the waiting, OR any other food suggestions? Thank you for all your work and research – I’m learning so much right now!
Sally Fallon Morell replies: She’ll catch up her weight. I would wait about 2 months before carefully trying solid foods again.
Hi Sally, Thanks for your response. HELP! I just found out the whey I have been getting from my farmer was made by adding citric acid and rennet to the cows milk! Yikes! No wonder my baby is fussy and spits up sometimes! I hope this hasn’t harmed her in any way!! She is now 2 months old, Any advice? Also, if making whey using commercial brand yoghurt like five farms, how do we make it? Drain yogurt in cheesecloth overnight? Thanks!!
Sally Fallon Morell replies: The recipe for making the whey is in Nourishing Traditions and the Nourishing Traditions Book of Baby and Child Care. Use a good quality commercial yoghurt to make the whey.
Hi Sally,
My daughter was diagnosed with a milk allergy at 8 months. She was only taking 20 oz a day on my BM and my ped suggested only BM because that has the most cal. Long story short she didn’t gain wt. we started fortifying my BM to get her more cal per oz, and this is where we found out she does not tol any formula. We moved all the way up to elecare, and she took less than even my BM, even fortified cal total less. We were told we need to discuss a feeding tube. I knew she just didn’t like the formula, as she puked daily on it.
This is where I researched about raw milk, talked with a guy who own a store who sells all the homeopathic “stuff”. I tried just plain raw goat milk, as he suggested, and she took it. She was doing really well on it too, about 16 oz a day, plus food with added extra cals. This week I started feeding her egg yokes and she started puking her food up after this. Last night she started with her milk too. What could be causing this. I stopped the egg yokes, and stopped putting nutritional yeast on her food. Didn’t know if this what was causing it. She is also teething, with a runny nose.
My question is, my daughter needs to catch up wt., she is 10 months and 15lbs 6 oz, which she mostly gained within the last 2 weeks. Should I start making the formula? She was tol the goat milk for about 2 weeks, this is new to her. I did stop her reflex med because she was doing so well, I slowly tampered it off, but that was last week. When she does puke the milk is in a curdled consistency. Which I thought was normal because of how the milk breaks down the proteins for her. Could it be her body with the full strength milk? She hasn’t had it any other way. I was worried about the diluting and the kidneys, but she has wet diapers and stools are normal. No pain. How can I amp up her cals in the milk?
Sorry long post, so many questions, this is my 4th baby and I have never had to go through this, other children were fed BM and with my twins they supplemented with Similac. I just and getting the guilty look from my peds about raw. I need to know I’m doing the right thing for her!
Thank you from a desperate mom.
Sally Fallon Morell replies: Certainly you should try the raw milk formula–many babies supposedly with a milk allergy do fine on it. And hold off on the egg yolk for awhile, but do try some pureed liver and some banana.
WHEY HELP: Hi Sally, I need your advice for whey. I have been getting my whey from my farmer, but found out it’s the leftover whey from making cheese, so it has rennet and citric acid in it. It hasn’t been causing the formula to curdle necessarily, but I figure it can’t be good for the baby? I tried twice now, making my own whey with 1/2 gallon of the cows milk, but after 6 days it still didn’t separate enough. I have some whey from draining 7 farms plain yogurt, but I don’t want to rely on commercial yogurt. Any advice? Thanks!
Sally Fallon Morell replies: The recipe for making the whey is in Nourishing Traditions and the Nourishing Traditions Book of Baby and Child Care. Use a good quality commercial yoghurt to make the whey.
Hi Sally!
Will be making formula for the first time tomorrow. Right now I do a combo of breastfeeding and pumping, supplementing a bit of Holle formula In the bottles of expressed milk. I usually put baby to the each breast and then offer bottle after. We’ve had many issues due to tongue and lip tie and even though they’ve been corrected he still does not get enough off the breast to satisfy. I would still like to give him as much breast milk as possible and supplement with this formula as needed. So if I have 2oz of expressed milk is it ok to just add 2 more oz of this formula in the same bottle? Or should I just give them separately?
Sally Fallon Morell replies: Yes, you can mix the two. My daughter did this very successfully.
we plan to have adopted baby,, Since we live in indonesia, some of the ingredients listed above for making homemade baby formula cant be found here. There are bifidobacterium infantis, cod liver oil and acerola powder. What are the subtitutes for them? Is it ok if we feed the baby with colostrum kefir?
Sally Fallon Morell replies: The main thing is to be able to get the raw milk. I don’t know about colostrum kefir–normally babies get colostrum only for a few days, so it might be too rich. Make the formula as best you can for now but order the ingredients from Radiant Life, which can ship them to you.
At what age can you give Raw Goats milk plain, no dilution.
Sally Fallon Morell replies: Probably around ten months, and at that time, baby should be eating some solid food.
Hi,
Our baby was thriving off of this formula for the first 2 months but for the past couple weeks she seems to be spitting a lot of it up. We took out the nutritional yeast but that did not seem to help. We are wondering if it’s all the oil and fat that could be making her throw it up? I understand the fat is essential for the baby but I’m wondering if it would hurt to take some of it out? We use raw milk from Guernsey cows which apparently have 30 percent more cream in their milk than other cows, so is it necessary to still add the 2 tablespoons of heavy whipping cream? Could we take that out? Any suggestions? (just to add, we know that she couldn’t be lactose intolerant because she has done just fine on the Baby’s Only Organic Dairy formula.)
Thank you!
Jud
Sally Fallon Morell replies: Yes, take out the cream and the other oils, maybe cut the cod liver oil in half for the moment and see how she does.
I have been feedingt baby the homemade raw milk formula and she loves it. I have been making up a new formula every day but it would be very helpful if I could make it up every other day. I know you mentioned that it’s best to make up a new batch every day but I’m wondering if that is because of the raw milk or all the ingredients together that will spoil. Does this mean I should be buying fresh raw milk every day? Or can I use raw milk multiple days. I’d have to buy a half gallon every day which would be very expensive at $6 per half gallon. If I can use the milk multiple days, couldn’t I also mix the formula and use it multiple days. I would assume the milk would be the first thing to spoil? I appreciate any help on this!!
Sally Fallon Morell replies: You can buy a week’s worth of milk, that is fine. And if you want to make it for two days, that should be OK. But we don’t recommend making many days’ worth at one time. The formula should be freshly made.
Raw milk and raw chicken liver will kill an infant!
Sally Fallon Morell replies: Hmmm. . .we have had about 20,000 babies on this formula, with only good reports. No dead babies.
Dare not to try raw milk but I am more on formula milk for my DD because of the nutrition but it will cause my DD constipated. Thanks to my sister recommended Mamil to me and currently feeding my DD with Mamil because of the DHA level is high and also another ingredient named prebiotic are effectively in preventing constipation. It only took me one week to see the result. No more hard stool and I find that she has no more constipation in this few months. I am happy with that.
Wondering why the WAP website says to not introduce solids (besides egg yolk, liver, banana) until around 10 months old?
Sally Fallon Morell replies: The idea is to introduce foods slowly–you can introduce them sooner if the baby is mature and growing well, but introduce new foods one at a time.
my baby is 1 year and 6 months with weighs 14 kg. is this normal?
everyone thinks he’s fat. But he only feeds nourishing traditions.
Another question is: how I live in Brazil, I don’t think meat and pork grass fed, can feed as well?
He never ate whole/cereal and sweeteners (honey) should I enter?
Sally Fallon Morell replies: Usually stout babies like this grow into tall, muscular adults. Plenty of whole dairy products for him–preferably raw. And no refined carbs. Just do the best you can on the meat. And he should get liver regularly
great article
I would rather take Cow Milk, my kids just dun like Goat milk, probably due to the smell.. They prefer cow milk. Now I letting my kid drink this milk brand- Mamil Dumex. They just like it!
Sally Fallon Morell replies: The ingredients look pretty artificial–and they are in a foreign language. Best to give real food!
i had ask mamil for trial pack and they gave it to me. so i try to switch my formula milk for my daughter from the old one to mamil. so far its okay and there is no issues with mamil
Sally Fallon Morell replies: The ingredients look pretty artificial–and they are in a foreign language. Best to give real food!
i loved mamil cause it contained softner stool. can promote good bowel movement for my kid so it can prevent constipation.
Sally Fallon Morell replies: The ingredients look pretty artificial–and they are in a foreign language. Best to give real food!
When I put my son on the goat milk formula(or plain raw goats milk), he is very constipated and and has hard, yellow stool. When he is on the cow milk formula, he has a non stop runny nose. He just turned 1 year but I feel uncomfortable putting him on either raw milk straight up. Should I try the liver formula for a while? He’s not eating enough food yet to get the proper nutrition I feel he needs. Hoping there is not a milk allergy, but think it is probable. We are pretty sure he has the MTHFR gene mutation.
Sally Fallon Morell replies: Yes, goat milk can be constipating. Yes, you can try the liver formula for awhile, gradually introducing solid foods and then in a few months, try the raw cows milk as an addition to the solid food diet.
Is it essential to use the lactose in the raw cow milk formula? I am concerned that the lactose is not from organic grass fed cows.
Sally Fallon Morell: Lactose is important for neurological development. We really don’t know where it comes from, but it really is fine.
thanks for sharing~~~~
is it normal for my baby is below the stature eating so well?
Follow all the guidelines regularly.
He doesn’t get sick, it’s healthy, sleep very well. But it’s a bit below the stature.
Sally Fallon Morell replies: I think as long as the baby is growing steadily, it should be fine.
thanks for sharing~~~~~~~
The cream comes from the top of a different container of milk then the one you are using for the formula base.
My almost 9 month old seems to be losing interest in her bottles recently (pulling away, trying to sit up, squirmy). She is getting 4, 8-ounce bottles per day of the cows milk formula, along with some puréed food. She hasn’t been finishing her bottles either. Could it be that she is weaning from the bottle? Any suggestions for how to deal with this? And what age can she be transitioned to the cows milk straight? Thanks!
Sally Fallon Morell replies: Some babies do wean early, so cut back on the bottles and introduce more foods. First foods should be egg yolk and pureed liver.
Thanks for sharing Sally. My LO is 3 months old and he just started the homemade formula a week ago. Before that he was on Enfamil and pumped breastmilk. He had eczema on his cheeks and it disappeared 2 days after starting the homemade formula and I was really happy to see that. On Day 6, his poop started smelling acidic. I don’t think he is sick because he is happy and feeds well. Is it the lactose that he is having issues with? If so, should I adjust the amount and increase it gradually?
Thanks
Sally Fallon Morell replies: You can cut back a little on the lactose, but if he is doing well otherwise, I wouldn’t worry about it.
Hi Sally, my daughter is turning 1 in February, and up until now has only had the raw milk formula, and solids consisting of eggs, meats, fruits and veggies. I want to have a birthday cake for her, but am unsure of what to have, as she has not been exposed to grains yet (she is currently 10 1/2 months). Any suggestions of a birthday cake recipe that won’t wreck her current healthy diet? Thanks! 🙂
Sally Fallon Morell replies: Try a flourless cake made with lots of eggs. Or, you can make a pie using the coconut crust.
I exclusively breastfeed my 8 month old, and I began feeding her the recommended foods starting at 6 months. I made the raw milk formula for the first time today, and she loved it. If I take a probiotic daily and still nurse her five times a day, and I give her one bottle of formula because she’s on the smaller side, do I still need to add the probiotic to the formula? She also eats yogurt mixed with her breakfast fruit each morning.
Sally Fallon Morell replies: No, you don’t need to add the probiotic. Actually, at 8 montns old, and getting the other recommended foods, you really do not have to make the formula. Just give her full-fat raw milk.
Sally, my son is very healthy, take Sun every day, play outdoors, sleeping 12 hours, eat liver, eggs, raw milk, vegetables, organic vegetables. But I took him to the pediatrician is 4 cm less than average table. all friends are higher.
From Sally Fallon Morell: This is definitely unusual–what about the family members, are they of average height or tend to be short?
I was unable to find BLue ice FCLO in liquid form or gel at where I live, only in capsule form. How much of those can I use to make the fortified commercial formula? I cannot afford to get all the ingredients in the raw milk based formula. Thank you!!
also my 6 months son is exclusively breastfeed until recently that I do not produce as much as he drinks. I need 4oz to 6oz of formula to supplement. Thank you again.
From Sally Fallon Morell: You could open 3-4 capsules and put it in the formula. But at six months, you could probably just supplement with raw whole milk.
My child is 9 months old and diagnosed with severe eczema and failure to thrive. He has severe allergies, especially to egg and dairy. He has been on breast milk this whole time though he was recommended/prescribed Elecare formula (which my baby refuses to drink). I was recommended to try the homemade formula. After giving him the raw dairy formula, he broke into hives all over his face and head and his eczema seems worse. Has anyone had this reaction to homemade raw milk formula? What should I do? Continue the formula? or what modifications can I make to it to see if its really the dairy he is allergic to? Thank you for any advice/recommendations.
Sally Fallon Morell replies: It could be any of the ingredients in the formula. I would try a small amount of raw whole cows milk, and if that doesn’t work, then raw, whole goat milk, without the other ingredients. I think you really need the help of a holistic practitioner. Where do you live? I would recommend a telephone consultation with Biodynamic Wellness in San Diego.
I have been drinking raw milk since 1970. When my first two babies were born, (late 70’s) I was unable to build a sufficient supply of breast milk. So, I made a formula from raw goat milk following a recipe from Adelle Davis. With one baby it caused constipation which I rectified by adding Aloe. My children were incredibly healthy; rarely sick. I was able to successfully nurse later babies. All of my children were raised on either raw goat or cow milk and now some of my grandchildren are too. There was a period of time in the 90’s,when raw milk was extremely hard to find in California. I went without drinking milk, at that time, rather than partake of the commercial Pasteurized variety.
My kids have 2 and a half years. Eat a lot and the weston price. Could you tell me if I’m prospering well with this menu:
-morning: pressed beet juice, carrot, Apple, banana milkshake, kefir and gem.
-lunch: rice and beans sprouted in bone broth, meat and vegetables.
-snacks: they’re not hungry
-dinner: 3 beaten egg yolks with raw milk
Reply from Sally Fallon Morell: I think they need a bit more meat and especially liver. Also lots of butter–butter on everything!
Thank you, but it helps me, he doesn’t like meat, how do I? the juice in the morning Deveria take? Has any suggestion that I can make? He is very fond of rice.
I’ve been feeding the raw milk formula to my baby since we got home from hospital at two days she was doing fine with some little constipation issues which we dealt with. But now she is almost 12 weeks and has started to refuse the milk. Instead of drinking more she is taking less. She develop a rash and seems to be colicky wich it wasn’t an issue before. I read a post someplace else that suggested putting many things amongs them karo syrup ,Splenda I end up using vanilla extract but it has alcohol she seems to have like it. I also put a drop of stevia with vanilla flavor and she seems to like. I really don’t want to change to other formulas. She use to eat 3 to 3 1/2 oz now if she drinks 2 is a lot and will start screaming with hunger but refuses the milk after an once if I don’t put some flavoring. Any help will be appreciated. Sorry for the long post
Reply from Sally Fallon Morell: I think vanilla extract would be fine, or you could add powdered vanilla. For sure NOT karo syrup and especially not Splenda!! I would also try adding a little extra cream. You could also give the cod liver oil separately, not mixed with the formula.
Imeant to write back before but I totally forgot. Fortunately the milk was not the problem, I did not realize that the bottle I’ve been using advised to change nipples every month not every three like most so I did that and problem solve she started eating normally Again with out putting any flavoring. Go figure now I am starting to feed egg yolks I hope she does ok. But so far I’ve have a very happy healthy baby feeding raw milk formula and trying to follow your recipes and for that I thank you. Best regards Sally Fallon
I noticed in the case that someone uses commercial formula you have Baby’s Only as a recommendation. I tried to breast feed and it seems that my breast milk causes my daughter to have stomach issues as she cries while she drinks it and continues to cry afterwards and has a lot of gas. I switched to Baby’s Only LactoRelief and she seems to be doing a bit better but the rosary carbohydrate is Brown Rice Syrup. Baby’s Only has another formula that I wanted to switch to as it has Organic Lactose and Whey Protein in it as opposed to the Brown Rice syrup.nThe only thing is that the Dairy Whey Protein formula has more Calcium and Phorsphorous than most other commercial brands of infant formula. It has 110 mg Calcium and 75 mg phosphorous per 100/k compared to 88 mg Calcium and 64 mg phosphorous in most infant formulas. Baby’s Only claims that the levels of calcium and phosphorous are still within range for an infant (my daughter is almost 2 months old) although my pediatrician, who doesn’t know much about nutrition,said it may be too high. I also have a couple of coworkers who have used this formula. Any thought on the Calcium and Phosphorous content of the Baby’s Only and if it may be too much for an infant? Thank you !
Reply from Sally Fallon Morell: No thoughts on this, but it is SO much better to make your own formula out of raw milk, using our recipe. Then you know that the calcium and phosphorus will be efficiently absorbed.
How long does the liquid whey last in the fridge after making it?
I find it lasts for months in the fridge. Anyone else?
Hi,
I’m making the hypoallergenic formula with liver but the probiotic recommended contains dairy and soy which my son is allergic to. I want to use a non-dairy option that I found but it has other probiotics in it as well but doesn’t contain any of the things my son is allergic too which are: wheat, soy, dairy, peanuts, lactose, and eggs. Would this be okay? Any help please and thank you!!
Here’s the website:
https://www.seekinghealth.com/probiota-infant-60-servings
Anna
Sally Fallon Morell replies: Yes, this would be fine. Hopefully your son will grow out of his allergies as he matures.
Hi,
I posted this question piggy baked to somebody else’s post from 2013 above, but I gotta make sure I get an answer so I’m reposting in my own comment.
I’m making the hypoallergenic formula with liver but the probiotic recommended contains dairy and soy which my son is allergic to. I want to use a non-dairy option that I found but it has other probiotics in it as well but doesn’t contain any of the things my son is allergic too which are: wheat, soy, dairy, peanuts, lactose, and eggs. Would this be okay? Any help please and thank you!!
Here’s the website:
https://www.seekinghealth.com/probiota-infant-60-servings
Anna
Sally Fallon Morell replies: Yes, this would be fine. Hopefully your son will grow out of his allergies as he matures.
Thank you so much!
He is loving the liver formula! In taking it slow because I’m trying to gage if he’s going to have a reaction to the sunflower oil since he has a peanut oil but I have one more question….
Any ideas on why only 24oz would come out and not the 36oz even though I’ve measured everything correctly. The only thing that I left out is the whey but that wouldn’t make that big of difference in the oz amount. I’m worried now because I put the measurements for what the recipe calls for. Do I need to throw out these batches or it’s still OK to give to him?
Help please and thank you so much!
Anna
Sally Fallon Morell replies: I am not sure why you are getting the discrepancy, but if baby is doing well, just keep on.
Hello my 3-year-old son feeds very well, somemte eats foods permitted by WAPF. Never had sugar and refined, never had problems of health. Every day she takes raw milk, it’s been a week since she started coughing and vomiting every time she takes the milk, and I have two other daughters who also take the same milk and nothing happens. He’s been taking this same milk since he was born.
Sally Fallon Morell replies: The first thing would be to go off the milk and see if this clears up. Give him broth–even if just a spoonful at a time, that should help her get over this.
I am following your goat milk formula recipe and adding 1/4 teaspoon desiccated liver to the formula. In the nourishing traditions book it ask for 1/2 teaspoon. Which is right? I am hoping that i am not causing a deficiency in my daughter. She has been drinking this formula since 4.5 months old and she is not 9 months.
Sally Fallon Morell replies: I’d put in 1/2 teaspoon. At nine months she should also be getting pureed liver, egg yolks and other foods. Within a couple of months, she can go to just raw milk.
Hi
My 10meses son is hard to eat, take a lot of formula, raw yolk, cream cheese, bone broth, bananas. It has been difficult for other foods she liked soaked oats porridge. Can continue to give?
Sally Fallon Morell replies: You can gradually transition to raw whole milk in addition to the other foods.
Hello, question re: the goat’s milk formula recipe… when you add, “add 2 teaspoons organic raw chicken liver, frozen for 14 days, finely grated to the batch of formula.” I assume we are to be leaving it raw? The 14 days freezing time destroys any harmful bacteria that may be living on the raw meat in its fresh state?
Sally Fallon Morell replies: Yes, that’s right.
Hello,
I am trying to make hommade formula with using pasteurized milk. Could you please suggest any brands? The ONLY brand I found in the market is Organic Valley grass fed milk, non homogenized, whole, pasteurized cow milk with cream on top, would it be ok? and as it is already cream on top, is it ok to avoid putting cream from the receipt?
Also, at the receipt, for pasteurized milk it was written to culture with piia or kefir, but there is no exact description how it should be cultured? Would you please describe how to culture it properly?
And one more question, in case of possible constipation, should it be switched to goat milk, or there is a way how to avoid constipation?
Thank you
Sally Fallon Morell replies: We do not recommend making the formula with pasteurized milk. Raw milk is available almost everywhere–contact your nearest WAPF chapter leader for a source. For sure don’t use Organic Valley–it is ultrapasteurized and will really harm your baby.
hi Angie,
i am also thinking of using non raw milk, would you please share with your experience, how it was working? and how did you culture this milk with a piimaor kefir culture?
thank you
I’m lactose intolerant and as a baby I was too. When I became pregnant, my lactose intolerance became worse (throwing up within the hour…even using lactase pills.) But, here is the kicker…I am perfectly fine with raw milk and raw cheeses. No reaction, perfectly fine. I’m also a biologist with a background in media making so, I get it. Actually didn’t surprise me…so, I was excited to see the raw milk recipe but then dismayed to see the added lactose powder. I made the recipe this morning, stuck to the recipe. Took two lactase pills and then downed about half a cup this morning…totally got sick. Now, I know this doesn’t mean my baby will react the same but why the added lactose? It doesn’t make sense to use these high quality ingredients like raw milk which…thankfully is easy to find in San Diego, CA…and then add extra lactose. I don’t think the enzymes in the raw milk compensate for the added lactose. Insight would be appreciated, thanks. Contemplating making a lactose free batch as a backup.
Sally Fallon Morell replies: We add lactose because raw milk contains lactose and human milk is higher in lactose than animal milk–lactose is important for development of the brain and nervous system. But if baby can’t tolerate it, use plain sugar or maple syrup instead.
We have been supplementing with a slightly modified version of the formula for the past month or so. She is now 4-1/2 months old and doesn’t seem to dislike the formula any more than breast milk. We started the formula as is, but after a few tries we noticed a few things were happening. The whey would cause the formula to curdle. It was so bad in a few batches that it would completely separate to curds and whey/oil mix. She did not appreciate it and it was almost impossible to feed her. We stopped using any whey and it no longer curdles.
The raw milk we get is always fresh, but I could not ever figure a way to have the whey without it curdling. Is the formula still ok without the whey? We also reduced the lactose amount because it seemed to cause it to deteriorate quickly or curdle even quicker when we were using whey.
She is eating solid foods, about 4 oz once a day now, so I don’t think she isn’t getting enough sugars. I would rather use fruit/vegetable sugars rather than cane sugar or maple syrup at the time. She still is eating about 1/2 breast milk 1/2 formula for her liquid diets.
Sally Fallon Morell replies: Are you using cheese whey or yogurt whey? Cheese whey will make it curdle, but yogurt whey should be fine. But if she is doing fine without the whey, then just continue as you are.
Her first foods should be egg yolk and liver, not fruits and vegetables. See my book The Nourishing Traditions Book of Baby & Child Care.
Can you supplement with raw goats milk for a newborn?
Sally Fallon Morell replies:
It’s best to make the whole formula
The raw milk formula is causing severe constipation in my 4 month old. Would adding unsulphured blackstrap molasses be advised, or what would you recommend? Thank you!
Sally Fallon Morell responds:
Yes, we have had several reports that adding a little molasses will help this. Or, you can give diluted molasses separately in a bottle. By the way, are you using goat milk or cows milk. The goat milk formula is more likely to cause constipation. To get baby going again, use a child suppository.
I appreciate you and your work so much! Thank you for what you are doing!
I am about to start my 9 month old on raw goat milk. (Next baby will get the raw formula you suggest from the start!)
Can you recommend a good folate and b12 supplement / company to get these from? What is the proper dose for her at this age and when does that change?
Thank you again. My full support to you!
Shannon
Sally Fallon Morell responds:
At nine months, your baby should also be getting pureed liver, egg yolk and other foods that can supply B12 and folate, so you don’t need to supplement.
Hi so happy to have found this website! Thank you for all the great info, really appreciate it.
I have a 9 month old that I have been exclusively breastfeeding, we are both just tired of it and are ready to switch to raw goats milk. I have been giving her the goats milk for 2 days now, just the goats milk not the recipe you have given. is that okay? or do you recommend doing the recipe? she seems to not mind it. she is getting a little constipated from it do you recommend anything for the constipation? I give her vitamin c and works wonders. Also do you recommend a specific liver brand that I should be giving her? Thank you for your time!
Sally Fallon Morell responds: At nine months, you do not have to do the formula. But be aware that goat milk can be constipating. You might try raw cows milk to see whether that makes a difference. Of course, she should also be getting solid food, especially pureed poultry liver and egg yolks. Best if you purchase your liver and eggs from a pasture-based farm.
My baby is 9 months. If she’s old enough to not need the formula, can I give her raw cow’s milk by itself? Would I add cod liver oil to it? If so, how much?
Sally Fallon Morell responds: If the baby is robust and doing well, yes you can go to raw milk by itself. Give cod liver oil in the raw milk, or separately using an eye dropper or a syringe.
Hello, I have 4 children and have used this recipe for 3 who are dairy intollerant. I use coconut milk instead and skip the wheat. Do you have any ideas for protien substitutes? I’ve nursed my babies until they are 1, but when switching to cows milk they don’t seem to tolerate it well. I like using this hearty formula to aid in their development even though they are eating other foods as well.
Can you tell us which formula recipe you are talking about? None of the formulas listed use wheat (unless you meant whey, but even so, let us know).
My baby has been breastfed since birth but is underweight. We started the raw cow formula and she loves (no gas or colic) but after eating formula she got a couple red spots around her mouth. Is this normal? We were doing 1/2 breastmilk 1/2 Raw cow formula. Should we switch to Goat or keep with cow?
Sally Fallon Morell responds: I’d keep the cow for now, especially if she is doing well otherwise. Have not heard of red spots before but since it is not anything serious, I’d continue as you are. Hopefully they will go away.
I do not have a local farm that I can visit and I have been purchasing raw milk for my almost 11 month old to make th formula. However, I have been feeling really uneasy about it. Can I use pasteurized milk with the added ingredients to make the formula so she is still getting the nutrients form the vitamins and minerals? Why do I need raw milk? I know it is considered to be a healthier option as pasteurization kills the good bacteria. But what would be my next choice if I don’t feel safe giving her the raw milk?
Sally Fallon Morell replies: NO, NO, NO, do not use pasteurized milk. It is very allergenic, difficult to digest and the nutrients are far less available. Thank goodness you have a source of raw milk! It is the safest thing for your baby.