Parents Choice Gentle Formula

Finding Comfort for Your Baby’s Sensitive Tummy Without Breaking the Bank

When I held my daughter for the first time, I had grand visions of our breastfeeding journey. Fast forward three weeks, and there I was, standing in the formula aisle at 2 AM, bleary-eyed and overwhelmed by choices. My perfect little bundle was struggling with gas, fussiness, and what seemed like constant discomfort. That night changed everything—it was when I discovered Parent’s Choice Gentle Formula, and honestly, it felt like finding hidden treasure in the most unexpected place.

If you’re reading this, chances are you’re on a similar journey. Maybe breastfeeding didn’t work out, or perhaps you’re supplementing. Whatever brought you here, I want to share everything I’ve learned about Parent’s Choice Gentle Formula—from what makes it special to how it compares to premium brands that cost nearly twice as much.

What Is Parent’s Choice Gentle Formula?

Parent’s Choice Gentle Formula is Walmart’s store brand of infant formula designed specifically for babies with mild digestive sensitivities. When I first picked up that purple container, I was skeptical. Store brand formula? For my precious baby? But desperation and a pediatrician’s reassurance led me down this path.

This formula is essentially Walmart’s answer to premium gentle formulas like Enfamil Gentlease or Similac Pro-Sensitive, but at a significantly lower price point. The gentle designation means it’s partially broken down (technically called “partially hydrolyzed proteins”) to be easier for sensitive tummies to digest.

Parent’s Choice Gentle Formula is designed to reduce fussiness, gas, and crying while providing complete nutrition for your baby’s first year. This was exactly what my daughter needed, and I suspect it might be what your little one needs too.

The formula contains partially broken-down milk proteins, reduced lactose content, and essential nutrients like DHA (for brain development), choline, vitamin E, and a blend of nutrients that mimic those found in breast milk as closely as possible.

Is It Really Good for Sensitive Stomachs?

When my daughter was struggling with what seemed like constant discomfort, I was willing to try anything. The first night after switching to Parent’s Choice Gentle, I noticed a subtle difference. By day three, the change was remarkable. Her fussiness decreased dramatically, and those painful gas episodes that had her pulling her legs to her chest and screaming became less frequent.

The reason this formula works well for sensitive tummies is multifaceted:

1. The proteins are partially broken down, making them easier to digest
2. It contains reduced lactose compared to standard formulas
3. The fat blend is designed to be gentle on developing digestive systems

Every baby is different, but in our case, this formula was genuinely transformative. My daughter went from a fussy, uncomfortable baby to a content little one who actually started sleeping longer stretches (hallelujah!).

I’ve since spoken with dozens of parents in my mommy groups who have had similar experiences. One mom, Jessica, told me her son had been diagnosed with mild reflux, and this formula made a noticeable difference within days. Another friend switched after trying three premium brands with no success and finally found relief with Parent’s Choice Gentle.

Parent’s Choice Gentle vs. Enfamil: The Honest Comparison

Let’s talk about the elephant in the room—how does this budget-friendly formula compare to the big names that pediatricians often recommend first?

When my pediatrician first suggested trying a gentle formula, she mentioned Enfamil Gentlease. At nearly $35 for a container that wouldn’t even last two weeks, I was hesitant. Then she casually mentioned, “The Walmart version is very similar if cost is a concern.”

After extensive research (late-night Google sessions while nursing a fussy baby count as research, right?), I discovered something interesting: Parent’s Choice formulas are manufactured by Perrigo Nutritionals, which makes store brand formulas for many major retailers. These formulas must meet the same FDA nutritional guidelines as the name brands.

Here’s what I found in comparing Parent’s Choice Gentle to Enfamil Gentlease:

• Both contain partially hydrolyzed proteins
• Both have reduced lactose content
• Both include DHA and ARA for brain and eye development
• Both have a similar vitamin and mineral profile
• The most significant difference? Parent’s Choice costs about 50% less

In terms of performance, my daughter couldn’t tell the difference. When we temporarily switched to Gentlease during a road trip (it was the only option at a small-town grocery store), I noticed no change in her comfort level or satisfaction.

The biggest difference was in my wallet—and my peace of mind knowing I could actually afford to feed my baby without financial strain.

Is Parent’s Choice Gentle Formula Safe for Newborns?

This was my first major concern. I remember standing in the aisle, reading the label over and over, wondering if I was making the right choice for my tiny two-month-old.

The answer is yes—Parent’s Choice Gentle Formula is safe for newborns and can be used from birth through the first 12 months. It contains all the required nutrients that your baby needs to grow and develop healthily during this crucial period.

That said, always consult with your pediatrician before making any formula changes, especially for very young babies. When I made the switch, I had a detailed conversation with our doctor first, who reviewed the ingredients and gave us the green light.

All infant formulas sold in the United States must meet strict FDA guidelines for safety and nutritional content. Parent’s Choice is no exception. The formula is manufactured in FDA-inspected facilities and undergoes rigorous quality testing.

Does It Help with Colic?

Colic—that mysterious condition that makes otherwise healthy babies cry inconsolably for hours—was something we fortunately only experienced in a mild form. But several parents in my online support group have shared dramatic improvements after switching to Parent’s Choice Gentle.

While no formula can claim to “cure” colic (and if it does, be skeptical!), gentle formulas like this one can help address some of the digestive discomfort that may contribute to colicky symptoms.

The partially hydrolyzed proteins and reduced lactose content can make digestion easier, potentially reducing gas and discomfort that might trigger colicky episodes. For many babies, including my friend Maria’s son who screamed for 4+ hours every evening, the switch to this formula brought noticeable relief within a week.

If your baby is experiencing true colic, formula is just one piece of the puzzle. Other soothing techniques, proper burping, and sometimes medical intervention may be necessary. But many parents report that a gentle formula is an important part of their colic management strategy.

A Deep Dive into the Ingredients

When I first started formula feeding, I became obsessed with ingredients lists. I wanted to know exactly what I was putting into my baby’s body. Here’s what you’ll find in Parent’s Choice Gentle Formula:

The primary ingredients include:

• Nonfat milk (with reduced lactose levels)
• Vegetable oils (palm olein, soy, coconut, and high oleic sunflower oils)
• Partially hydrolyzed whey protein concentrate
• Corn syrup solids
• Lactose

The formula also contains important nutrients like:

• DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) for brain development
• Choline for nervous system development
• Vitamin E, an antioxidant
• Iron for healthy blood cells
• A complete vitamin and mineral blend

Some parents express concern about ingredients like corn syrup solids, but it’s important to understand that in infant formula, these serve as a carbohydrate source that provides essential energy for your growing baby. All formulas, including premium brands, use similar carbohydrate sources.

The partially hydrolyzed whey protein is what makes this formula “gentle”—these proteins have been pre-broken down somewhat to be easier for immature digestive systems to process.

Preparing Parent’s Choice Gentle Formula: Tips from a Formula-Feeding Pro

After months of formula preparation, I’ve developed a system that works well for us. Here’s how to prepare Parent’s Choice Gentle Formula properly:

1. Always wash your hands thoroughly before preparation
2. Use clean bottles and nipples (I run everything through the dishwasher on the sanitize cycle)
3. Boil water for 1 minute and let it cool to about 100°F (no more than 30 minutes of cooling)
4. Add the exact amount of water to the bottle first
5. Add one level scoop of formula powder for each 2 ounces of water
6. Cap the bottle and shake well until all powder is dissolved
7. Feed immediately or refrigerate prepared formula for no more than 24 hours

One tip I wish I’d known sooner: the Dr. Brown’s formula mixing pitcher was a game-changer for us. I could make a batch for the entire day and store it in the refrigerator, eliminating middle-of-the-night formula measuring.

For on-the-go feeding, I pre-measure water in bottles and carry formula in the dispenser compartments. This made travel and outings so much more manageable.

It’s worth noting that Parent’s Choice Gentle mixes easily—I’ve never had issues with clumping or difficulty dissolving the powder, which was occasionally a problem with some other brands we tried.

Where to Buy and What You’ll Pay

The most obvious place to purchase Parent’s Choice Gentle Formula is at Walmart stores or Walmart.com. It’s exclusively a Walmart brand, so you won’t find it at Target, Amazon, or other retailers.

In terms of pricing, this is where Parent’s Choice truly shines:

• A 33.2 oz container typically costs around $19.98 (prices may vary slightly by location)
• This makes it approximately 40-50% less expensive than comparable name-brand gentle formulas
• A container this size lasts about 10-14 days for an exclusively formula-fed baby

When my daughter was exclusively formula-fed, we went through about 3 containers per month, costing roughly $60. The same amount of Enfamil Gentlease would have cost us closer to $120.

During my formula-feeding journey, I discovered that Walmart occasionally offers special promotions on their baby products. Signing up for their baby registry (even after your baby is born) can sometimes get you coupons for formula. I also started using the Walmart app to order formula for pickup, which saved me from dragging a fussy baby through the store when supplies ran low.

Is Parent’s Choice Gentle Formula Lactose-Free?

This is a common question, and the answer is no—Parent’s Choice Gentle is not completely lactose-free. It contains reduced lactose compared to standard formulas, but some lactose is still present.

For babies with true lactose intolerance (which is actually quite rare in infants), Parent’s Choice does offer a completely lactose-free formula called Parent’s Choice Sensitivity. The Gentle formula, however, is designed for babies with mild sensitivities who can still process some lactose.

My daughter seemed to do well with the reduced lactose content of the Gentle formula. If your baby has been diagnosed with lactose intolerance or has severe reactions to any amount of lactose, you’ll want to choose a completely lactose-free option instead.

The Gas Question: Does It Cause or Cure?

Let’s address another common concern: gas. When my daughter was at her gassiest, it was heartbreaking to watch her struggle with discomfort. Those little legs would pull up, her face would turn red, and the crying was intense.

Parent’s Choice Gentle Formula is specifically designed to reduce gas and the discomfort it causes. In our experience, it delivered on this promise. Within days of switching, those painful gas episodes became less frequent and less severe.

The formula’s easier-to-digest proteins and reduced lactose content help minimize gas production in the digestive system. However, it’s important to note that some gas is normal for all babies, regardless of feeding method. Even breastfed babies experience gas as their digestive systems mature.

If you switch to this formula and still notice significant gas, consider these other factors that might be contributing:

• Swallowing air during feeding (try different bottles or nipple flows)
• Feeding position (keep baby’s head higher than stomach)
• Inadequate burping (try burping more frequently during feedings)
• Food sensitivities (if you’re combination feeding, something in your diet might be affecting breast milk)

For us, the combination of switching to Parent’s Choice Gentle and using Dr. Brown’s anti-colic bottles made a tremendous difference in my daughter’s comfort level.

The Transition: How to Switch Your Baby to Parent’s Choice Gentle

When I decided to switch formulas, I was worried about upsetting my daughter’s already sensitive system. My pediatrician recommended a gradual transition over several days:

Day 1: 75% old formula, 25% Parent’s Choice Gentle
Day 2: 50% old formula, 50% Parent’s Choice Gentle
Day 3: 25% old formula, 75% Parent’s Choice Gentle
Day 4: 100% Parent’s Choice Gentle

This gradual approach worked well for us and minimized any additional digestive upset during the transition. Some babies, however, do fine with an immediate switch—you know your baby best.

Signs that the transition is going well include:

• Continued normal diaper output
• Reduced fussiness
• No increase in spit-up or vomiting
• Normal sleep patterns (or improved sleep!)

If you notice any concerning symptoms during the transition—like significant constipation, diarrhea, or excessive vomiting—contact your pediatrician right away.

Does Parent’s Choice Gentle Help with Spit-Up?

While Parent’s Choice Gentle isn’t specifically marketed for reflux or spit-up issues, many parents (myself included) notice an improvement in these symptoms after switching.

My daughter was what pediatricians affectionately call a “happy spitter”—she spit up frequently but didn’t seem bothered by it. After switching to Parent’s Choice Gentle, I noticed the frequency and volume of spit-up decreased somewhat. This makes sense given that easier digestion can lead to less regurgitation.

For babies with more severe reflux or excessive spit-up, Parent’s Choice also offers a formula called Parent’s Choice Added Rice Starch, which is specifically designed to be heavier and stay down better. Some parents in my groups have had success combining approaches—using the Gentle formula during the day and the Added Rice Starch formula for the last feeding before bedtime.

As with all aspects of baby feeding, what works for one infant may not work for another. If spit-up is your primary concern, discuss with your pediatrician whether a gentle formula or an anti-reflux formula would be more appropriate for your baby’s specific needs.

The Benefits Beyond Digestion

While improved digestion is the primary benefit of Parent’s Choice Gentle Formula, there are other advantages worth mentioning:

1. Complete nutrition: Despite being easier to digest, this formula still provides all the nutrients your baby needs for healthy development during the first year.
2. Brain development support: The inclusion of DHA and choline supports cognitive development, which was important to me as a parent concerned about optimal brain growth.
3. Financial relief: The significant cost savings compared to name brands allowed us to allocate more of our tight budget to other baby necessities (and maybe the occasional takeout dinner when cooking was just not happening).
4. Accessibility: Being able to find this formula at any Walmart made it convenient, especially during those early months when leaving the house felt like organizing a military operation.
5. Peace of mind: Knowing my baby was comfortable and getting proper nutrition gave me one less thing to worry about during an already overwhelming time.

Several parents in my community have shared that the switch to Parent’s Choice Gentle coincided with their babies sleeping longer stretches at night. While there’s no scientific evidence directly linking this formula to better sleep, it makes intuitive sense that babies with less digestive discomfort might sleep more soundly.

Parent’s Choice Gentle vs. Similac: Another Comparison

While Enfamil Gentlease was our original alternative, many parents also consider Similac Pro-Sensitive or Similac Pro-Total Comfort when looking at gentle formulas.

When comparing Parent’s Choice Gentle to Similac options, I found:

• Similac Pro-Total Comfort uses partially hydrolyzed whey protein, similar to Parent’s Choice Gentle
• Both contain DHA for brain development
• Similac contains their patented OptiGRO blend of DHA, lutein, and vitamin E
• Similac tends to cost approximately twice as much as Parent’s Choice

In terms of performance, babies who do well on Similac gentle formulas often transition smoothly to Parent’s Choice Gentle. My neighbor’s son had been on Similac Pro-Total Comfort but switched to Parent’s Choice Gentle at 4 months due to cost, with no negative effects.

The major difference most parents note is the price point, not the performance. For families on a budget, this can be a significant factor in the decision-making process.

Stocking Up: Availability at Walmart

Since Parent’s Choice is Walmart’s store brand, availability is generally reliable at most Walmart locations. However, during the formula shortage of 2022, even store brands became difficult to find at times.

Based on my experience, here are some tips for ensuring you can find Parent’s Choice Gentle when you need it:

1. Use the Walmart app to check stock at nearby stores before making a trip
2. Consider ordering online for pickup or delivery when available
3. Don’t wait until you’re on your last scoop to buy more—I learned to restock when I opened my last container
4. If your local store is out, ask customer service when they expect the next shipment

I typically found the formula well-stocked at our local Walmart, but occasionally during busy times (like holiday seasons), inventory seemed to dip. Having a backup plan—like knowing which other formulas your baby tolerates well—is always wise.

Feeding Guidelines: How Much and How Often

One question I had when switching formulas was whether the feeding amounts would be different. The good news is that feeding guidelines for Parent’s Choice Gentle are similar to other formulas:

Newborns (0-1 month): 2-3 ounces every 2-3 hours
1-2 months: 3-4 ounces every 3-4 hours
2-4 months: 4-6 ounces every 4 hours
4-6 months: 6-7 ounces 5-6 times per day
6+ months: 7-8 ounces 4-5 times per day, plus solid foods

These are just guidelines, and your baby’s specific needs may vary. My daughter always seemed to need slightly more than the recommended amounts, while my friend’s baby consumed less. The best approach is to follow your baby’s hunger cues rather than forcing them to finish every bottle.

Signs that your baby is getting enough formula include:

• Steady weight gain
• 6+ wet diapers per day
• Contentment after feedings
• Normal development milestones

If you’re concerned about your baby’s intake, tracking feedings for a few days can provide valuable information to share with your pediatrician.

Safety First: What About Recalls?

Safety is paramount when it comes to infant formula. One concern some parents have about store brands is whether they’re as closely monitored for quality and safety as name brands.

Parent’s Choice formulas, like all infant formulas sold in the US, are subject to strict FDA regulations and regular testing. The manufacturer, Perrigo, has a strong safety record.

While there have been recalls of various formula brands over the years, Parent’s Choice Gentle has maintained a good safety record. It’s always wise, however, to register your formula purchases with the manufacturer when possible and stay informed about any potential recalls.

You can check for current recalls by:

• Visiting the FDA website
• Signing up for recall alerts
• Following Parent’s Choice on social media for announcements

During the 15 months I used this formula, we never experienced any recall issues with Parent’s Choice Gentle specifically. However, always inspect formula containers for damage, check expiration dates, and trust your instincts if something seems off about the powder’s appearance or smell.

Special Circumstances: Premature Babies and Special Needs

If your baby was born prematurely or has special nutritional needs, you’ll want to consult closely with your pediatrician before choosing any formula, including Parent’s Choice Gentle.

While this formula provides complete nutrition for most full-term infants, premature babies sometimes require specialized formulas with higher calorie counts and additional nutrients to support their catch-up growth.

Parent’s Choice does offer a formula specifically for premature babies who have been discharged from the hospital (Parent’s Choice Premium Infant Formula for Premature Babies), which might be recommended by your doctor after your preemie has reached certain milestones.

For my friend whose twins were born at 34 weeks, her pediatrician recommended starting with a premature-specific formula and then transitioning to Parent’s Choice Gentle around 3 months actual age (not adjusted age) when their digestive systems had matured further.

The Practical Details: Storage and Shelf Life

Proper storage of formula is important for maintaining its quality and safety. Here’s what you need to know about storing Parent’s Choice Gentle:

Unopened containers:

• Store in a cool, dry place (not the refrigerator)
• Check the “use by” date on the bottom of the container
• Typically good for about 1 year from manufacture

Opened containers:

• Keep tightly sealed
• Continue to store in a cool, dry place
• Use within 30 days of opening
• Write the opening date on the lid as a reminder

Prepared formula:

• Refrigerate prepared bottles immediately if not using
• Use refrigerated prepared formula within 24 hours
• Never save formula from a partially consumed bottle

I found that an unopened container of Parent’s Choice Gentle typically had a use-by date about a year from purchase. Once opened, I was strict about using it within 30 days, though we rarely had a container last that long.

Making the Decision: Is Parent’s Choice Gentle Right for Your Baby?

After sharing all this information, the question remains: Is Parent’s Choice Gentle the right choice for your baby?

Consider these factors when making your decision:

1. Does your baby show signs of mild digestive sensitivity?
2. Has your pediatrician recommended trying a gentle formula?
3. Is budget a significant concern for your family?
4. Do you have easy access to a Walmart store?
5. How important is brand name to your peace of mind?

For us, Parent’s Choice Gentle was truly a lifesaver. It addressed my daughter’s digestive issues, fit our tight budget during my maternity leave, and gave us one less thing to worry about during those challenging early months.

Remember that every baby is unique. What works wonderfully for one may not work for another. Don’t hesitate to try different options (with your pediatrician’s guidance) until you find what works best for your little one.

My Final Thoughts: One Mom to Another

Looking back on my formula-feeding journey, finding Parent’s Choice Gentle was a turning point. It transformed my fussy, uncomfortable baby into a content little one who could focus on growing and developing rather than fighting digestive discomfort.

Beyond the practical benefits, this formula gave me something priceless: peace of mind. As a new mom already struggling with the emotional weight of not being able to exclusively breastfeed, finding an affordable formula that actually helped my baby feel better lifted a tremendous burden.

If you’re standing in that formula aisle right now, feeling overwhelmed and uncertain, I hope my experience helps you. Remember that fed is best, and the right formula for your baby is the one that keeps them healthy, comfortable, and growing—regardless of what’s printed on the label or how much it costs.

Trust your instincts, work with your pediatrician, and know that you’re doing an amazing job navigating the complex world of parenthood. Whether you choose Parent’s Choice Gentle or another option, what matters most is the love and care you’re providing alongside that bottle.

Your baby is lucky to have you as their parent, and finding the right formula is just one of the many ways you’re already advocating for their needs. You’ve got this!