The Core of Kendamil's Grassfed Claim
Kendamil, a family-owned British company, consistently states that the whole milk used in their formulas is sourced from local, Red Tractor-certified farms in the Lake District. Their website and marketing materials emphasize that their cows are free to roam and graze on lush, nutrient-rich grass. The temperate climate of the Lake District is ideal for grass growth, which provides a key part of the cows' diet.
The National Advertising Division (NAD), an American self-regulatory body, reviewed Kendamil's claims in August 2025. They found that Kendamil had a "reasonable basis" for the claims related to whole milk and lactose from "grass-fed cows". This independent review supports the company's long-standing position regarding its dairy sourcing. This commitment to local, transparent sourcing is a cornerstone of the brand's identity and a key differentiator in the crowded baby formula market.
Understanding the Benefits of Grassfed Milk
Milk from grass-fed cows offers several potential nutritional advantages over milk from conventionally raised cattle. These benefits are passed on through the whole milk used in Kendamil formulas.
Nutritional Advantages of Grassfed Milk
- Higher Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Grassfed milk contains significantly higher levels of anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids compared to milk from grain-fed cows. Omega-3s are crucial for infant brain and eye development.
- Increased CLA: Conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), a healthy fat, is found in much higher concentrations in grassfed dairy. CLA has been linked to improved immune function and has other health benefits.
- Richer in Vitamins A & E: The milk contains higher levels of fat-soluble vitamins A and E, which act as important antioxidants. Vitamin A supports vision and immune function, while vitamin E protects cells from damage.
- Higher Antioxidant Levels: Grass-fed milk is richer in antioxidants like beta-carotene, which is processed into vitamin A in the body.
Grassfed vs. Conventional Formula Milk: A Comparison
To better understand the differences, here is a comparison between the characteristics of milk used in grassfed formula, like Kendamil, versus conventional formula.
| Feature | Grassfed Milk (Kendamil) | Conventional Milk (Typical Formula) |
|---|---|---|
| Cow Diet | Primarily grass and forage; cows have pasture access | Often grain-heavy diet; confined to feedlots |
| Omega-3s | Significantly higher levels | Lower levels |
| CLA | Higher conjugated linoleic acid | Lower conjugated linoleic acid |
| Vitamins (A & E) | Higher levels of fat-soluble vitamins | Lower levels |
| Farming Practices | Emphasis on natural grazing, animal welfare, and sustainability | Often intensive, large-scale dairy farming methods |
| Nutrient Balance | Better balance of omega-3 to omega-6 fatty acids | Higher omega-6 to omega-3 ratio |
What Kendamil Says About Their Sourcing
Kendamil highlights several key aspects of their milk sourcing that reinforce their grassfed claim:
- British Whole Milk: The company uses fresh, whole milk from cows and goats on local British family farms, which serves as a natural source of fat.
- Red Tractor Certified: All milk comes from Red Tractor-certified farms, ensuring strict standards for animal welfare, environmental protection, and food safety.
- Happy, Roaming Cows: Kendamil promotes that its cows are grass-fed and happy, leading to better-tasting milk rich in nutrients.
- Local Supply Chain: The milk is sourced from 220 local Cumbrian farms close to their factory in the Lake District, which ensures freshness and traceability.
The Kendamil Manufacturing Process
Kendamil's production process is designed to preserve the nutritional integrity of the grassfed whole milk. Unlike many competitors who buy pre-dried powders, Kendamil receives fresh liquid milk daily. This fresh milk is then gently pasteurized and wet-blended with essential vitamins and minerals before being spray-dried into a fine powder. This unique process is believed to protect the nutritional goodness of the ingredients, which can be damaged by over-processing.
Kendamil's Commitment to Quality and Sustainability
Beyond their grassfed claims, Kendamil is known for avoiding several controversial ingredients commonly found in other formulas:
- Palm Oil: Kendamil has a strict policy against using palm oil, citing concerns about both its potential impact on infant mineral absorption and environmental deforestation.
- Fish Oil: Instead of fish oil, Kendamil uses a plant-based source for Omega-3 (DHA) derived from sustainably farmed marine algae. This makes their formula vegetarian-friendly and avoids contributing to overfishing.
- Soy & Corn Syrup: The formula is free from soy and corn syrups, using lactose as the primary carbohydrate source to mimic breast milk.
Conclusion: Making an Informed Choice
For parents wondering if Kendamil is grassfed, the answer is a clear yes, according to company statements and independent verification. The milk is sourced from Red Tractor-certified grass-fed cows on local British farms, and the company is transparent about its processes. This commitment to quality sourcing translates into a product with potentially higher levels of beneficial nutrients like Omega-3s and CLA. When choosing a formula, consider the importance of grassfed dairy and other ingredients. Discussing all options with a pediatrician is always recommended to ensure the best choice for your baby's unique needs. For more details on Kendamil's unique whole milk approach, read their blog post on the topic here: The Whole Story on Whole Milk.
Important Notice: Breastfeeding is best. Kendamil should be used on the advice of a healthcare professional.
