What’s the difference between S26 Gold and Original? Parents ask this question a lot. To save you time and energy here’s a quick rundown of the main formula differences, plus what Tell Me Baby parents have said in their baby formula reviews. 

You can also take a look at our baby formula comparisons to find out the most rated products.

Before comparing S-26 baby formulas, parents need to understand there are two main types of protein found in milk (including breastmilk and baby formula): whey and casein. 

According to this research, “casein becomes clots or curds in the stomach; while whey remains as a liquid and is easier to digest.” 

As a result, it’s recommended that your baby’s first formula should have whey as the dominant ingredient. Knowing this will also help you understand the differences between these two products.

Additionally, “The Australian Infant Feeding Guidelines actually recommend choosing a formula with a lower amount of protein.”

Read more about how to choose formula for your baby in our ultimate guide to newborn formula.

Under the WHO Code, the information presented here is free from advertising and is based on unbiased opinions from parents.

S-26 Gold Newborn

Features

• 65:35 whey: casein ratio
• 1.28g protein per 100ml
• Added DHA and AA 

Gold formulas have certain types of fats – long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LCPUFAs) – added to them. Breastmilk naturally contains LCPUFAs (especially DHA and AA). 

Raising Children says, “It isn’t known if these added fats in formula work in the same way as those naturally found in breastmilk, or if they are absorbed as effectively.”

Price

$25.50 for a 900g tin, $2.83 / 100G

Pros

At the time of writing this article, S-26 Gold Newborn had a 3.7-star rating, and many reviewers said they were very happy with this formula, and would recommend it. 

One mum said: “The consistency of the formula itself is easier to scoop and deal with. I feel like there are less clumps as the formula dissolves so quickly.”

Cons

S-26 Gold is slightly more expensive than the s-26 Original but lots of parents think it’s worth it. One parent said they didn’t like the scoop.

“The only thing I wish they’d change is the scoop it’s hard to level the formula out with the design of it,” they said.

Example review

“We love this formula. This is our third formula we tried and by far our favourite! The consistency of the formula itself is easier to scoop and deal with. I feel like there’s less clumps as the formula dissolves so quickly. Other formulas we’ve tried has also caused digestive issues for my baby and this is the first one that has evened everything out. He no longer screams in pain due to wind or being constipated.”

Read more S-26 Gold Newborn reviews. 

S-26 Original Newborn

Features

• 60:40 whey: casein ratio
• 1.3g protein per 100ml

Price

$18 for a 900g tin, $2 / 100G

Pros

At the time of writing, this product had a star rating of 4.2. Lots of parents say their baby drank this formula without any issues. They are also happy with the price. 

Cons

Some parents said this formula doesn’t suit a reflux baby.

Example review

“My son absolutely loves this formula after trying many other recommendations including chemist only formulas I decided to try this, my son drank it happily in one sitting no fussing around and fighting for him to finish his bottle for hours anymore. No more reflux was nice and full for longer and did not upset his tummy at all as he is a mixed-fed baby!”

Read more S-26 Original Newborn reviews.