Skip to Content

Get the perfect Travel Gadget for the jetsetter on your list!

Posts with tag Similac

Freebie deals for moms-to-be (and new moms)

Filed under: Kids and Money, Fantastic Freebies

Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt may score millions for their twins but there are tons of opportunities for non-celebrity new parents to earn rewards. While little Junior (or June) might not generate $14 million, there are numerous freebies offered by large conglomerates that don't include selling the 8lb 7oz tyke. That's right --you can keep 'em. Whether your sleep-deprived brain can focus long enough to find these deals is another matter. That's where we come in. Here are a few of the great freebie finds we've found for you and your newest addition:

Enfamil Family Beginnings program offers free gifts for expectant parents. If you register for free at enfamil.com, or at many doctors offices across the country, new parents will receive a diaper bag with samples, a feeding kit, and a free portrait offer from JCPenney. Parents can also receive up to $60 in formula rebate checks.

Not to be outdone, in May rival formula-maker Similac relaunched its Welcome Addition Club as Strong Moms to connect mothers online. In addition to advice, the Web site provides month-by-month guides on pregnancy and baby development, as well as many free samples of its product.

Whoa, baby! Don't pay extra for this infant formula

Filed under: Food, Shopping, Health

Similac's organic baby formula, which sells for as much as 30% more than the regular version, contains added cane sugar, according to an article in the New York Times.

Mothers who choose not to or can't breastfeed, may opt for the organic formula because they perceive it to be healthier. That may be true of other brands, but Similac's organic formula, which was launched in 2006 by Abbott Laboratories, is the only national brand with cane sugar. Sucrose sweetened formulas have been banned in Europe.

While there haven't been any reports of adverse health effects, pediatricians cautioned that the sweeter taste of the formula might make babies turn up their noses to other foods without as much sugar. Babies might also overeat because they like the taste so much, and it could harm their tooth enamel.

Not surprisingly, the news has rekindled the ongoing debate in the blogosphere over the breast versus bottle controversy. Given the choice between spending $30 for a 25-ounce can of sugar-laden Similac and free breastmilk, this round goes to the nursing moms.

Michele Turk is a journalist and author whose book, Blood, Sweat and Tears: An Oral History of the American Red Cross, was published in 2006. She recently founded e street press, a self-publishing company.