Raising a baby in South Africa in 2025 comes with many joys — but also significant financial pressures. One of the biggest recurring expenses for parents of infants and toddlers is baby formula. With inflation, fluctuating grocery prices, and different retailers charging different amounts, parents often find themselves asking: Which formula brand is the best value this month, and where can I find it cheapest?
This October 2025 guide compares NAN, Lactogen, and Infacare — three of the most popular formula brands in South Africa — across leading supermarkets and pharmacies. We’ll cover price comparisons, nutritional insights, cost-per-gram analysis, and smart buying tips to help you stretch your budget without compromising your baby’s nutrition.
Why Baby Formula Prices Matter in 2025
Baby formula is not a luxury item — it’s an essential. Many South African parents rely on it either fully or partially for their child’s nutrition during the first years of life. However, prices have been climbing steadily. Several factors drive the variation:
- Import costs: Brands like NAN and Lactogen are Nestlé products, with prices tied to global supply chains.
- Retail mark-ups: Pharmacies vs. supermarkets often have different pricing strategies.
- Stage differences: Stage 1 (newborn) vs. Stage 3 (toddler) formulas may vary significantly in cost.
- Promotions: Retailers run periodic specials, bundle deals, or loyalty discounts.
For parents balancing nappies, healthcare, and other household bills, tracking formula prices month to month can mean saving hundreds of rand annually.
The Big Three: NAN, Lactogen & Infacare
Before diving into prices, here’s an overview of the three leading formula brands in South Africa.
1. NAN Infant Formula (Premium Range)
- Manufacturer: Nestlé
- Positioning: Premium, closer-to-breastmilk formulations
- Variants:
- NAN Optipro Stage 1 (0–6 months)
- NAN Optipro Stage 2 (6–12 months)
- NAN Optipro Stage 3 (12–24 months)
- Nutritional focus: High-quality proteins, DHA/ARA for brain development, probiotics for gut health.
- Target audience: Parents prioritizing premium nutrition and international brand trust.
Pros: Clinically researched, widely available, trusted brand.
Cons: Among the most expensive options, especially at pharmacies.
2. Lactogen Infant Formula (Mid-Range)
- Manufacturer: Nestlé
- Positioning: Affordable alternative to NAN, simple and gentle formulation.
- Variants:
- Lactogen Stage 1 (0–6 months)
- Lactogen Stage 2 (6–12 months)
- Nutritional focus: Balanced nutrition, easy digestion, iron-enriched.
- Target audience: Families seeking a trusted brand at a lower price point than NAN.
Pros: More affordable than NAN, reliable Nestlé quality.
Cons: Fewer “premium” additives like probiotics and DHA.
3. Infacare Infant Formula (Budget-Friendly, Local Brand)
- Manufacturer: Aspen Pharmacare (South Africa)
- Positioning: Value-for-money local brand.
- Variants:
- Infacare Stage 1 (0–6 months)
- Infacare Stage 2 (6–12 months)
- Infacare Stage 3 (12–36 months)
- Nutritional focus: Meets regulated infant nutrition standards, iron-fortified, affordable option.
- Target audience: Budget-conscious families looking for a South African brand.
Pros: Lowest average price, locally manufactured, widely available.
Cons: Perceived as “basic” compared to international brands, fewer premium ingredients.
What the Retail Listings Show (October 2025)
Below are some of the live listings from the retailer sites (without links). These reflect a sample of current pricing as of October 2025.
Pick n Pay (PnP)
Nestlé NAN Optipro 1 (400 g) — R119.99
Nestlé Lactogen Starter Stage 1 (400 g) — R72.99
Infacare Milk Formula 1 (400 g) — R72.99
Infacare Milk Formula 1 (1.8 kg) — R489.57
Infacare Stage 2 (400 g) — R72.99
Infacare No 2 (900 g) — R44.99 (Baby Club Members) / R39.99 (Smart Price)
Nestlé NAN Protect Start Stage 1 (1.8 kg) — R484.99
These listings show that Pick n Pay carries both small tins and large-value packs of premium and local brands.
Dis-Chem
NAN OptiPro Gold Stage 1 (900 g) — R224.99
NAN PreNAN 400 g — R224.99
NAN Infant Formula Stage 1 (400 g) — R259.99
NAN OptiPro Gold Stage 2 (900 g) — R299.99
NAN Lactose-Free 400 g — R236.99
Infacare Melegi Acidified (400 g) — R72.99
Infacare Kid 4 Tin (1.8 kg) — R304.99
Dis-Chem stocks both premium and budget/mid-tier products, including lactose-free and acidified formulas.
Shoprite
Shoprite’s formula listings include:
NAN OptiPro Stage 1 (1.8 kg) – R474.99
NAN SPECIALpro Lactose-Free (400 g) — R234.99
Infacare Stage 2 (4 × 450 g) multipack – R249.99
Infacare Stage 3 (900 g) growing-up formula – R249.99
These listings show that Shoprite covers a wide spread, including specialty formulations and multi-pack bundles.
Clicks
NAN Optipro Stage 1 (400 g) — R119.99
NAN Optipro Stage 2 (400 g) — R124.99
NAN Optipro Gold Stage 1 (900 g) — R229.99
Lactogen Starter Stage 1 (400 g) — R72.99
Lactogen Stage 2 (400 g) — R74.99
Infacare Stage 1 Infant Formula (400 g) — R69.99
Infacare Stage 3 Growing-Up Formula (400 g) — R72.99
Infacare Follow-On Formula (1.8 kg) — R489.99
Clicks’ pricing closely aligns with Pick n Pay on Lactogen and Infacare products but remains slightly higher on NAN’s premium Optipro Gold range. Frequent Clicks ClubCard promotions and bundle discounts can offer small savings, especially on repeat purchases.Disclaimer: Prices may vary by region, store promotions, or online discounts. Always confirm in-store before purchase.
Cost-Per-Gram Analysis
To fairly compare affordability, let’s break it down to cost per gram:
- NAN Optipro (400g at ±R190) → ±R0.47 per gram
- Lactogen (400g at ±R140) → ±R0.35 per gram
- Infacare (400g at ±R110) → ±R0.27 per gram
This shows Infacare is the most budget-friendly, followed by Lactogen, with NAN the most premium-priced option.
Which Formula Offers the Best Value?
- Best for tight budgets: Infacare is the go-to choice for parents looking to save without compromising on quality. It’s locally made, affordable, and still provides all the key nutrients your baby needs for healthy growth. If you’re watching your spending but want something safe and trusted, Infacare offers great value.
- Best balance of cost and quality: Lactogen sits comfortably in the middle — not too pricey, but backed by Nestlé’s strong reputation for baby nutrition. It’s designed to be gentle on babies’ stomachs and is a good everyday formula for families who want a balance between affordability and brand reliability.
- Best premium nutrition: NAN is the top choice for parents who prioritise advanced nutrition and are willing to spend a bit more. With added probiotics, DHA, and carefully designed formulations for different stages, it’s ideal for those who want a premium option that supports every part of their baby’s development.
Read more: 4 Easy Home Exercises to Burn Belly Fat in 21 Days
Smart Buying Tips for Baby Formula in 2025
- Shop supermarket chains first:
Supermarkets like Shoprite and Pick n Pay usually have the most competitive prices on baby formula compared to pharmacies. They often run specials or bundle deals, especially on popular brands like Infacare and Lactogen. - Buy in bulk if possible:
If your baby is already comfortable with a specific formula, go for the larger tins (like 1.8 kg for NAN or Lactogen). Buying in bulk can save you a few rands per gram, and it means fewer last-minute trips to the store. - Check online deals:
Retailers such as Clicks and Dis-Chem frequently run online-only promotions or discounts for app users. It’s worth checking their websites before buying in-store — delivery is often free or discounted on bigger orders. - Use loyalty programmes:
Both Clicks ClubCard and the Dis-Chem Benefit Programme give cashback points or vouchers on baby formula purchases. Over time, these points can add up to real savings — especially for parents who buy regularly. - Time your purchases:
Keep an eye out for end-of-month sales or seasonal promotions. Many retailers include baby products in these deals, making it a smart time to restock and stretch your budget a little further.
Key Takeaways for October 2025
- Infacare is the most affordable choice, especially for families on a strict budget.
- Lactogen balances affordability and brand trust.
- NAN remains a premium choice with advanced nutritional features but comes at a significantly higher price.
By comparing prices monthly and shopping strategically, South African parents can save meaningfully on formula costs — without compromising on their baby’s health.
FAQs on Baby Formula Prices (October 2025)
1. Is Infacare safe for my baby compared to NAN or Lactogen?
Yes. All baby formulas sold in South Africa, including Infacare, meet strict nutritional and safety regulations set by the Department of Health.
2. Why does NAN cost more than Lactogen?
NAN includes additional ingredients like probiotics, DHA, and advanced proteins, which are marketed as “closer to breastmilk,” making it a premium-priced option.
3. Where can I usually find the cheapest baby formula?
Shoprite generally offers the lowest everyday prices on baby formula. However, Clicks and Dis-Chem often have special promotions or loyalty rewards, which can make them just as affordable when you use ClubCard or Benefit Programme discounts.
4. Should I switch formulas to save money?
Always consult your pediatrician before switching formulas, especially if your baby has specific dietary needs or sensitivities.
5. Do prices change every month?
Yes. Due to inflation, import costs, and retail competition, baby formula prices fluctuate monthly, which is why updated guides like this are useful.
6. What is the difference between Stage 1, 2, and 3 formulas?
Stage 1 formulas are designed for newborns up to 6 months and contain nutrients that mimic breastmilk. Stage 2 formulas (6–12 months) provide additional iron and calcium for growing babies, while Stage 3 (12–36 months) is a toddler milk that complements solid foods.
7. Are there lactose-free or special formulas available in South Africa?
Yes. Brands like NAN offer lactose-free and hypoallergenic options (e.g., NAN Sensitive or NAN HA). Always consult your healthcare provider before switching to a specialty formula, as these are formulated for specific medical needs.
8. Can I mix different formula brands?
It’s not recommended to mix different brands or stages in one feeding, as each has a unique nutrient profile. Sudden changes can cause digestive discomfort. If transitioning, introduce the new formula gradually over several days.
9. Is it cheaper to buy formula online?
Sometimes. Retailers like Dis-Chem Online, and Clicks often run web-exclusive deals or delivery bundles that can save money, especially when purchasing multiple tins. However, always ensure you’re buying from verified sellers to avoid counterfeit products.
10. How can I tell if a formula tin is genuine and safe?
Check for tamper-proof seals, clear expiry dates, and South African registration details on the packaging. Avoid damaged tins or products sold below normal retail price from unofficial sources.
Also check: Why Some Stores Don’t Accept SASSA Cards: Key Reasons Explained
In October 2025, baby formula prices in South Africa show clear differences between brands and retailers. While NAN remains the premium option, Lactogen offers a middle ground, and Infacare continues to be the go-to for budget-conscious families. By checking prices across major retailers, calculating cost-per-gram, and using loyalty programmes, parents can save significantly while ensuring their little ones receive the nutrition they need.
