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If you’re a parent in Canada, you’ve likely already discovered that the cost of baby formula can be a significant expense. With so many different brands and types of formula available, it can be challenging to determine which option is the best value for your budget. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the factors that contribute to the cost of baby formula in Canada and offer tips on how to save money without sacrificing quality.
If you’d like to see how formula fits into the overall costs of a new baby – check out our awesome child cost calculator!
Cost of Baby Formula By Retailer
| Retailer (Brand) | Grams Per Tub (g) | Price (CAD) | Cost Per Gram |
| Costco (Kirkland Yellow) | 1,360 | $41.99 | $0.031 |
| Amazon (Enfamil A+ Refill) | 992 | $58.41 | $0.059 |
| Walmart (Enfamil Tub) | 663 | $43.97 | $0.066 |
| Superstore (Nestle Good Start) | 1020 | $50.99 | $0.050 |
Prices updated on July 28, 2023.
Average Cost Of Baby Formula Per Month
The average cost of baby formula per month in Canada is between $130 and $300 per month depending on age and where you buy your formula from. Let’s break that down further.
It’s very hard to work out an average as your baby should only be fed as much or as little as they want to eat. They can go through growth spurts where they eat much more and constipation where they eat less.
Kids Health has a newborn drinking 45-90 mL every 2-3 hours and a 6-month-old drinking 180-230 mL 4-5 times per day. Then at a certain point, your baby will start to eat solids which will drastically reduce and eventually eliminate the need for formula as their nutrients will be coming from solid foods.
But for budgeting purposes let’s take a stab at this as an average of the first 6 months based on Kids Health’s estimates. I am also using 8.6g of formula per 60 mL of water as directed on a Kirkland tub of formula.
Newborn Low-End = 45 mL x 12 feedings = 540 mL = 77.4 g of formula per day
Newborn High-End = 90 mL x 12 feedings = 1,080 mL = 154.8 g of formula per day
6-month-old Low End = 180 mL x 4 feedings = 720 mL = 103.2g of formula per day
6-month-old High End = 230 mL x 5 feedings = 1,150 mL = 164.8g of formula per day
Monthly Average Cost of Formula Feeding In Canada
Let’s take the Costco cost as the average cost you’ll pay for the formula.
On the low end, the average monthly formula cost over the first 6 months is almost exactly 2 tubs of Costco formula. This would be an average cost of $83.98 per month plus your provincial tax.
From personal experience with 3 kids and some formula-feeding experience – this isn’t enough.
On the high end, over the first 6 months, you’ll need an average of 4 tubs of formula each month. That’s equal to $167.96 plus tax from Costco. If you base this off Amazon or Walmart prices currently the formula is going to cost $319 plus tax per month!
Factors that Influence the Cost of Baby Formula in Canada
Type of Formula
The cost of baby formula can vary widely depending on the type of formula you choose. For example, specialized formulas, such as those for infants with colic or reflux, tend to be more expensive than standard formulas.
The most common brands are Good Start, Enfamil, or Costco’s Kirkland.
Brand
Just like with any other consumer product, brand name formulas are typically more expensive than generic or store-brand options.
Packaging
The packaging of baby formula can also affect the cost. For example, ready-to-feed formulas are more expensive than powdered formulas.
Availability
Availability can also impact the cost of baby formula. If a particular brand or type of formula is in high demand and difficult to find, the cost may increase.
Availability is driving many of the price increases this year. Rapid inflation is hurting our wallets across the board and unfortunately, baby formula is no exception. Supply chain shortages are making formula hard to find and when you can – it’s up in price too.
Tips for Saving Money on Baby Formula
Consider Store Brands
Many store brands offer baby formula options that are just as nutritious as brand-name formulas at a lower cost. Be sure to compare ingredients and nutritional information before making a decision.
Buy in Bulk
Purchasing baby formula in bulk can be a great way to save money. Look for sales and discounts on larger quantities to get the best deal.
Use Coupons
Many formula manufacturers offer coupons and other promotions to help parents save money. Check online and in-store for these offers.
Sign Up for Subscription Services
Some retailers offer subscription services that allow you to save money on baby formula by having it delivered to your door on a regular basis.
Consider Powdered Formula
Powdered formula is typically less expensive than ready-to-feed or liquid concentrate formulas.
Conclusion
The cost of baby formula in Canada can be a significant expense for parents, but there are ways to save money without sacrificing quality. By considering factors like type, brand, packaging, and availability, and using money-saving tips like buying in bulk, using coupons, and considering store brands, you can help keep your baby happy and healthy without breaking the bank.
