Navigating the world of high-calorie premature infant formulas can be overwhelming. Whether you are currently using Similac NeoSure or considering a switch to Enfamil NeuroPro EnfaCare, you likely have questions about safety, preparation, and supply.
Building on our guide to Empowering Your Tiny Hero with NeoSure and EnfaCare, we’ve gathered the most common questions parents ask when managing these specialized formulas at home.
How long can mixed NeoSure sit out?
Once you have mixed NeoSure powder with water, it can sit at room temperature for up to 2 hours, provided your baby has not started drinking from it.
However, if your baby’s mouth has touched the nipple, the clock speeds up: you must use or discard the formula within 1 hour. This is because bacteria from the baby’s saliva can multiply quickly in the nutrient-rich formula. If you prep bottles ahead of time, they can be stored in the back of the refrigerator (at 40°F or below) for up to 24 hours.
Can I switch directly from NeoSure to NeuroPro EnfaCare?
Technically, yes. Both are 22-calorie “discharge formulas” designed for catch-up growth, and many pediatricians allow a direct switch if one brand is unavailable.
That said, every “tiny hero” has a unique digestive system. While the nutritional profiles are similar, the protein blends and prebiotics differ. Some parents notice a 3-to-5-day adjustment period involving slight changes in gas or stool patterns. It is always best to consult your pediatrician before making the switch to ensure it aligns with your baby’s specific medical needs.
How do I calculate how many cans of EnfaCare I need per month?
To ensure you never run out of stock, you can use a simple calculation based on your baby’s daily intake:
- Find the Monthly Ounces: Multiply the number of ounces your baby drinks per day by 30. (e.g., 20 oz/day x 30 days = 600 oz/month).
- Determine the Can Yield: Check the label of your EnfaCare can for the “reconstituted fluid ounces.” A standard 13.6 oz can of EnfaCare typically yields about 96-98 fluid ounces.
- Divide: Divide your monthly total by the can yield. (e.g., 600 oz / 96 oz per can ≈ 6.25 cans).
In this scenario, you would want to have 7 cans on hand per month to be safe.
Is EnfaCare the same as NeoSure?
While they serve the same purpose—supporting the growth of premature infants after NICU discharge—they are produced by different manufacturers (Mead Johnson vs. Abbott). Both provide 22 calories per ounce (standard formula is 20 calories) and increased levels of protein, vitamins, and minerals. The primary difference lies in the specific milk fat globule membrane (MFGM) and DHA blends found in Enfamil’s NeuroPro line compared to Similac’s OptiGRO nutrient blend.
How do you mix Neosure Infant Formula or EnfaCare Infant Formula to 22 Calories per oz?
How to mix Neosure or Enfacare to 22 calories
This video provides a step-by-step visual guide on the correct powder-to-water ratios for these specific formulas to ensure your baby receives the intended caloric density.
Can I use a formula pitcher to prep NeoSure or EnfaCare?
Yes! In fact, using a formula pitcher (like the Dr. Brown’s or Munchkin brands) is often recommended for these high-calorie formulas. It helps reduce the amount of air bubbles mixed into the formula, which can decrease gas and fussiness in preemies.
💡 Pro-Tip: If you prep a 24-hour batch in a pitcher, remember that the “24-hour clock” starts the moment you mix it, not when you pour it into individual bottles.
Is it okay to mix NeoSure and EnfaCare together?
While both are 22-calorie formulas, you should avoid mixing them in the same bottle unless specifically directed by your pediatrician. Each brand has a different blend of prebiotics and proteins. Mixing them can make it difficult to identify which formula is causing an issue if your baby experiences gas, constipation, or an allergic reaction.
Why is the scoop size different between brands?
It’s a common surprise for parents! Even though both NeoSure and EnfaCare are 22-calorie formulas, the scoop size is not universal. Always use the scoop that comes inside the specific can you are using. Using a NeoSure scoop for EnfaCare (or vice versa) can lead to improper caloric density, which can be dangerous for a growing preemie’s kidneys or growth trajectory.
Can I use tap water to prep my preemie’s formula?
Because premature babies have developing immune systems, many neonatologists recommend using distilled or nursery water, or boiling tap water and letting it cool before mixing. If you use tap water, ensure it has been tested for lead and high mineral content. Always check with your pediatrician for the specific water safety standards recommended for your baby’s health status.
Honest Medical Has the Infant Formula You Need
Whether you are the parents of a preterm baby being discharged from the NICU, or you care for preterm infants in a hospital or other institutional setting, you can rely on Honest Medical for the formula brands most pediatricians recommend to help preterm babies catch up, and keep full-term babies healthy and growing.
Learn more by speaking to an HonestMed Care Specialist at (833) 933-2323. We’re here to provide you with product knowledge, support, and expertise to ensure you get the right products for your unique needs and budget.
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