Prebiotics vs. Probiotics in Baby Formula: What’s the Difference?

When choosing the best formula for your baby, you’ve probably come across the terms prebiotics and probiotics. These two gut-friendly ingredients play an important role in digestive health and immune support, but what exactly do they do? And how do they benefit your little one?

At Zen Organic Formula, we specialize in European organic formulas that prioritize natural, high-quality ingredients—including prebiotics and probiotics. In this post, we’ll break down the difference between the two, explain how they support your baby’s gut health, and help you choose a formula that contains the right balance for your little one’s needs.

Prebiotics vs. Probiotics

Though they sound similar, prebiotics and probiotics have different functions when it comes to gut health:

✅ Probiotics = Live, beneficial bacteria that help balance the gut microbiome.

✅ Prebiotics = A type of fiber that feeds and supports the growth of good bacteria.

Think of it this way: Probiotics are the “good guys”—friendly bacteria that help keep your baby’s digestive system running smoothly. Prebiotics are the “food” these good bacteria need to thrive.

Both are naturally found in breast milk and play a key role in developing a healthy gut, which is why many high-quality European baby formulas include them.

 

The Role of Probiotics in Baby Formula

Probiotics are live microorganisms that support a healthy gut microbiome. In newborns, a balanced gut helps with:

✔️ Digestive Comfort – Probiotics promote healthy digestion, reducing the chances of colic, gas, and constipation.

✔️ Immune Support – Since about 70% of the immune system is in the gut, probiotics help strengthen your baby’s natural defenses.

✔️ Reduced Risk of Diarrhea – Some studies suggest that probiotics can help reduce the risk of diarrhea caused by infections or antibiotic use.

The most common probiotic strains added to baby formulas include:

• Bifidobacterium lactis – A strain that’s naturally present in breast milk and helps develop a strong immune system.
• Lactobacillus reuteri – Known to reduce colic symptoms and support digestive health.

While breastfed babies naturally receive probiotics from their mother’s milk, some European organic baby formulas are fortified with these beneficial bacteria to help formula-fed babies build a healthy gut.

 

Do all baby formulas contain probiotics?

Not all formulas contain probiotics, as they are live bacteria and require specific storage conditions. If your chosen formula doesn’t contain probiotics, you can also add them separately in infant probiotic drops—just be sure to check with your pediatrician first.

 

The Role of Prebiotics in Baby Formula

Prebiotics are special plant fibers that nourish beneficial gut bacteria and help them thrive. Babies who are breastfed naturally receive prebiotic oligosaccharides (HMOs) from their mother’s milk, which promotes the growth of good bacteria.

In baby formula, prebiotics can help support gut health by:

✔️ Encouraging the growth of beneficial bacteria – Prebiotics create the right environment for good bacteria to flourish.

✔️ Supporting digestion – They can help soften stools and prevent constipation.

✔️ Boosting immune function – A well-balanced gut microbiome helps strengthen the immune system.

Common prebiotics added to baby formulas include:

🔹 Galacto-oligosaccharides (GOS) – Derived from lactose

🔹 Fructo-oligosaccharides (FOS) – Found in plants like chicory root and added to some formulas for extra digestive support.

Since prebiotics are fibers (not live bacteria like probiotics), they are more stable and easier to incorporate into formula without requiring special storage conditions.

 

Which Type Is More Important for Baby Formula?

Both prebiotics and probiotics offer unique benefits, and the best formula for your baby will depend on their individual needs.

🍼 For babies with mild digestive issues (like gas or constipation), a formula with prebiotics may help promote softer stools and a healthier gut balance.

🍼 For babies prone to colic or digestive discomfort, a probiotic-enriched formula (or a probiotic supplement) may offer extra gut support.

Some premium European organic formulas, like HiPP Dutch, include both prebiotics and probiotics to give babies the best of both worlds!

 

Which European Baby Formulas Contain Prebiotics and Probiotics?

🥛 HiPP Dutch – Contains both prebiotics (GOS) and probiotics (Lactobacillus) to support a healthy gut.

🥛 HiPP Comfort & HiPP HA – Specially designed for sensitive tummies, these formulas contain prebiotics and probiotics to aid digestion.

 

🥛 Kendamil Organic Bio – Uses prebiotics (GOS) only, making it a great choice for babies who need gentle digestion support.

🥛 Jovie Goat & Nannycare – Goat milk formulas that naturally contain prebiotic oligosaccharides for gut health.

The Takeaway

Both prebiotics and probiotics play a key role in digestion, immunity, and overall well-being. While probiotics introduce beneficial bacteria, prebiotics feed and support them, helping to create a balanced gut microbiome.

Many high-quality European organic formulas include prebiotics and/or probiotics to help mimic the natural benefits of breast milk. If you’re looking for a formula that supports your baby’s tummy health, check out our carefully curated selection at Zen Organic Formula.