What is the difference between regular Kendamil and organic Kendamil?

November 15, 2025 •

3 min read

Globally, only an estimated 2% of farms are certified organic, highlighting the strict standards involved in organic production. This is the central point of distinction when comparing Kendamil Classic and Organic formulas, which differ mainly in ingredient sourcing, prebiotics, and price.

Quick Summary

The primary distinctions between Kendamil Classic and Organic formulas are their ingredient sourcing and prebiotic content. Organic is made with certified organic ingredients, including milk from organic farms, and contains only GOS prebiotics. Classic uses non-organic ingredients and includes both GOS and FOS prebiotics, making it a more budget-friendly option.

Key Points

Ingredient Sourcing: Organic Kendamil uses certified organic ingredients from EU/UK farms, while Classic uses high-quality non-organic ingredients.
Prebiotic Blend: Kendamil Classic includes both GOS and FOS prebiotics, whereas the Organic version contains only GOS, which is derived from organic lactose.
Certification and Regulations: Kendamil Organic adheres to stricter EU and UK Soil Association standards, which mandate higher animal welfare and environmental practices.
Cost Difference: Organic formula is generally more expensive than Classic due to the higher cost of organic farming and certification.
Nutritional Completeness: Both versions are nutritionally complete and regulated to provide all essential nutrients for infants, though their ingredient sources differ.
DHA Source: All Kendamil formulas, both Classic and Organic, use a vegetarian-friendly, algae-based DHA source instead of fish oil.

Sourcing of Ingredients: The Core Difference

The most significant factor differentiating regular Kendamil (Classic) from organic Kendamil is the origin and certification of its ingredients. Kendamil Organic is made with ingredients that adhere to the strict standards set by governing bodies, such as the EU Organic Certification and the UK Soil Association.

Organic Farming Practices

Certified organic farms must follow rigorous guidelines that govern every aspect of production. For the dairy milk used in Kendamil Organic, this means cows are raised on certified organic farms, fed a 100% organic, grass-based diet, and have plenty of access to pasture when weather permits. The use of synthetic pesticides, herbicides, and artificial fertilizers is prohibited on these pastures. Antibiotics are only used therapeutically, not routinely, for animal health. This commitment to animal welfare and environmental sustainability ensures a product free from GMOs and synthetic additives.

Regular (Classic) Farming Practices

Kendamil Classic uses high-quality ingredients but does not require the same stringent organic certification throughout its supply chain. The cows providing the milk are still grass-fed and free to roam, and the formula remains non-GMO and free from palm oil. However, the milk and other agricultural ingredients are not subject to the same strict organic regulations regarding pesticide and herbicide use or animal feed.

Prebiotic Blend: GOS vs. GOS + FOS

Another notable distinction lies in the type of prebiotics included in each formula. Prebiotics are non-digestible fibers that nourish beneficial gut bacteria, promoting healthy digestion and a robust immune system.

Kendamil Organic: This formula contains only Galacto-oligosaccharides (GOS), a prebiotic derived from organic lactose. The FOS prebiotic is omitted because sourcing a certified organic version is more challenging.
Kendamil Classic: The regular version includes both GOS and Fructo-oligosaccharides (FOS). The combination of GOS and FOS has been shown to result in metabolic activity in an infant's gut that more closely resembles that of breastfed babies.

Nutritional and Cost Considerations

While both formulas are designed to be nutritionally complete and provide all the essential vitamins and minerals for an infant's development, their sourcing impacts the final cost.

Comparing Kendamil Classic and Organic


Feature	Kendamil Classic	Kendamil Organic
Ingredient Sourcing	High-quality, non-organic ingredients.	Certified organic ingredients from EU/UK farms.
Prebiotics	Includes both GOS and FOS.	Includes GOS only (organic source).
Cost	Generally more affordable due to sourcing.	Higher price point due to organic certification and farming costs.
Certification	Meets standard European and FDA regulations.	Meets standard regulations plus EU and UK Soil Association organic standards.
Milk Source	Milk from grass-fed cows.	Milk from certified organic, grass-fed cows.

Making Your Decision

Choosing between Kendamil Classic and Organic depends on your family's priorities regarding budget, ingredient sourcing, and specific dietary needs. Both options are nutritionally complete and undergo rigorous safety and quality testing. Parents concerned about limiting their baby's exposure to pesticides and herbicides may prefer the organic option, despite the higher cost. Others may find that the Classic formula, with its unique GOS and FOS prebiotic blend and more accessible price, is the better fit. Always consult with a healthcare professional before switching your baby's formula to ensure it aligns with their specific needs.

Conclusion

While all Kendamil formulas offer a high-quality, whole milk base free from palm oil and fish oil, the difference between regular (Classic) and organic versions primarily revolves around ingredient sourcing and prebiotic composition. Organic is defined by its strict EU/UK certified farming practices and includes GOS prebiotics, while Classic uses non-organic ingredients and features both GOS and FOS prebiotics. Your choice should be an informed one, considering both the added benefits of organic certification and the family budget. Regardless of the version chosen, Kendamil provides safe and wholesome nutrition for your little one.

Optional authoritative link: European Union Organic Farming Regulations

Frequently Asked Questions

Both organic and classic Kendamil are nutritionally complete and safe for your baby. The 'better' option depends on your personal priorities. Organic offers ingredients sourced from certified organic farms, which some parents prefer to avoid pesticides and promote animal welfare, but it comes at a higher cost.

GOS and FOS are types of non-digestible fibers called prebiotics that help feed beneficial gut bacteria. Kendamil Classic includes both GOS and FOS, while Kendamil Organic contains only GOS.

Kendamil Organic is more expensive because the ingredients, especially the milk, must be sourced from certified organic farms. The organic certification process and stricter farming methods result in higher production costs, which are reflected in the price.

While both formulas are nutritionally equivalent, some studies on organic milk suggest a potentially more favorable fatty acid profile and reduced pesticide exposure due to organic farming practices. However, the health impact on infants is still being studied, and both options meet all necessary health and safety standards.

No, a key feature of all Kendamil formulas, including both Classic and Organic, is that they are free from palm oil and use a vegetarian-friendly, plant-based DHA source from marine algae instead of fish oil.

It is always recommended to consult with a healthcare professional before making any changes to your baby's formula. While some babies tolerate switching well, a gradual transition can help avoid digestive upset.

Kendamil sources its milk from grass-fed cows. For the organic version, the milk comes specifically from certified organic farms in the English Lake District, ensuring adherence to organic standards.