HiPP Formula Stages Explained: PRE, 1, 2 and 3 by Your Baby's Age
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If you've just started looking at European formula, the numbers on the box can be confusing. HiPP sells the same organic Combiotik formula in several βstagesβ β PRE, 1, 2 and 3 β and the right one depends mostly on your baby's age. Here's a simple guide.
The quick answer
- From birth: HiPP PRE or HiPP Stage 1
- From 6 months: HiPP Stage 2 (optional β see below)
- From 10 months: HiPP Stage 3
Always check the age printed on the pack, and talk to your pediatrician before changing formula.
HiPP PRE β from birth
PRE is HiPP's first infant formula. Its only carbohydrate is lactose, the same sugar found in breast milk, which gives it a thinner consistency. Many parents start here, especially when combining formula with breastfeeding. PRE can be used for the whole first year β you don't have to move on from it.
Shop HiPP Bio Combiotik PRE β
HiPP Stage 1 β from birth
Stage 1 is also a first infant formula suitable from birth. In the German version it contains a small amount of starch in addition to lactose, so it is slightly thicker and described as more filling. Some parents switch from PRE to Stage 1 when their baby seems hungrier between feeds; others stay on PRE. Like PRE, Stage 1 can be used throughout the first year.
Shop HiPP Bio Combiotik 1 (600g) β Β· 800g Dutch version β
HiPP Stage 2 β from 6 months
Stage 2 is a follow-on formula, designed for babies from 6 months who are also starting solid foods. It is adapted to the needs of an older baby, for example with more iron. Moving to Stage 2 is optional: many pediatricians are happy for babies to stay on a first infant formula until 12 months.
Shop HiPP Bio Combiotik 2 (600g) β Β· 800g Dutch version β
HiPP Stage 3 β from 10 months
Stage 3 is a follow-on formula for babies from 10 months, alongside a varied diet of solid food. The German version is thickened with organic starch for a more filling consistency.
Shop HiPP Bio Combiotik 3 (600g) β Β· 800g Dutch version β
What stays the same across the stages
- All HiPP Bio Combiotik formulas are EU-organic certified.
- They contain natural lactic acid cultures and GOS, a prebiotic fibre from organic lactose.
- They are made to the EU's strict rules for infant and follow-on formula.
How to switch stages
If you and your pediatrician decide to move up a stage, many parents do it gradually over a few days β for example by replacing one bottle a day with the new stage, then two, and so on. Always prepare each formula exactly according to the instructions on its own pack, because the scoop sizes and water amounts can differ between products. Never mix two different formulas in the same bottle.
What about HA, Comfort and Anti-Reflux?
These are separate HiPP ranges rather than stages. HA (hypoallergenic) formulas have partially hydrolysed protein, while Comfort and Anti-Reflux are special formulas. Read our guide to HiPP HA vs Combiotik, and please use the special formulas only on your pediatrician's advice.
Still not sure?
Write to us at hello@tenderstage.com with your baby's age and what you're using now β we're happy to explain the options. For medical questions, your pediatrician is always the best person to ask.
This article is for general information only and isn't medical advice. Breastfeeding is best for babies. Always follow the preparation instructions on the pack and consult your pediatrician before starting or changing a formula.