
When selecting imported baby formula, it's crucial to check the product barcode. For canned imported formulas, ensure they have accompanying labels and usage instructions in Vietnamese from reputable import and distribution units in the market.
Parents can refer to some barcode formats: Vietnam's is 893, China's is 690–691, Japan's 450–459 & 490–499, Switzerland's 760–769 GS1; Germany's is 400–440, France's is 300–379,... When purchasing baby formula, parents need to carefully inspect information from manufacturers and choose reputable and longstanding ones.
3. Examine the nutritional components of the formula before purchase
To differentiate and choose the right formula for your child, inspect the packaging and brand: check the levels of nutritional components such as fat, protein, vitamins, DHA, ARA,... so that the child develops well in height, weight, cognitive abilities, strengthens the immune system, and reinforces the digestive system – these are crucial factors for the best possible start for the child.
Choose formulas that meet the nutrition and food hygiene standards of reputable national medical organizations, pediatric nutrition from organizations such as CODEX (International Food Standards Commission), JECFA (FAO/WHO Expert Committee – Food and Agriculture Organization/World Health Organization), EFSA (European Food Safety Authority,...

The nutrients of Wakodo formula are printed on the product packaging.
4. Determine which nutrients your child needs to supplement
In addition to common nutrients such as fat, protein, carbohydrates, essential vitamins, and minerals,... baby formula also supplements some nutrients to support body functions such as DHA, choline, prebiotics,... with appropriate levels.
Below are some nutrients parents should pay attention to when choosing baby formula
- DHA, ARA: help improve nerve cells and develop retina, helping babies see better and be smarter. Choline, Taurine: Help develop cognitive abilities and enhance memory for babies
- Prebiotics (FOS),…: Help support babies' digestive system: Infants and young children have delicate digestive systems so when choosing baby formula, respect your baby's digestive system, choose easily digestible formulas, with nutrients that improve and support the nutrient absorption process for babies such as Prebiotics,... reducing the risk of constipation, balancing gut microbiota for babies
- Vitamin A, C, E, Zinc, Selenium and various B vitamins,… help support immune system function, enhance immunity for babies
- Calcium, vitamin D, C help strengthen bones and teeth, promote height growth for children
- Zinc, Magnesium, Vitamin A, Phosphorus: help metabolize substances in the body to help babies grow in both height and weight…

Choose the right baby formula for your baby's age
5. Choose formula suitable for your baby's age
Formula is researched to provide nutrients suitable for each stage of a baby's development. So choose the most age-appropriate formula for your baby. If you notice signs that your baby likes the formula, continue use; otherwise, switch right away.
The biggest concern when using formula for babies is whether it's good for their digestion, whether it causes constipation or diarrhea? Because only when babies absorb nutrients can the formula be effective... To avoid this, consult with nutritionists as they understand the effects of nutrients on each baby's condition and which nutrients complement each other for maximum benefit.
Mothers should prioritize choosing formula for babies made from 100% pure milk powder which is better for babies. Pure milk powder is milk directly from farms, transferred to factories, and made into baby formula within 24 hours without storage or preservation.

That's why choosing formula made entirely from pure milk powder will retain the full nutritional content and fresh flavor of milk. The milk will dissolve quickly and the baby will absorb it easily, absolutely safe for the delicate digestion system of the baby.
7. Distinguish between good and poor quality formula
To buy high-quality formula for babies, choose products with intact packaging, no signs of tampering, no deformation, clear images, sharp letters, not blurred. When using the formula, observe the color and taste. Good baby formula smells naturally fresh when opened, smooth milk, pale yellow color, not clumpy, while poor quality formula has a strong smell, unnatural color, and clumped powder.
8. Choose the flavor your child enjoys
Each baby has different preferences, so choosing formula based on the flavor your baby likes is also very important because only when the baby accepts it can they absorb the nutrients.
9. Price of formula for babies
Formula is an essential source of nutrition for babies during their early months and years. It's a long period, so the cost of buying formula for babies accounts for a large portion of the family's living expenses. Therefore, besides the criterion of choosing the best quality formula for your baby, choose products with reasonable prices according to your income while still ensuring your baby's health and development is also a matter of concern.
- TOP 5 best baby formulas in Vietnam 2019
- Guide for mothers to choose baby formulas that aid in brain development for 1-year-olds
- Check out 5 best baby formulas for constipation
