Are toddler milks and growing up formulas useful for my toddler?

What the evidence says

For most healthy toddlers, toddler milks and growing-up formulas are not necessary. The Canadian Paediatric Society, along with WHO and other pediatric groups, has stated that these products are not required or routinely needed once a child is eating a varied diet with whole cow's milk after 12 months.

A review comparing guidelines from Canada, the US, Australia, the UK, and Europe found that five out of six guideline documents concluded toddler milks are not indicated, ranging from advising against their use to saying they are simply not required. The American Academy of Pediatrics has said these drinks are inferior to standard formula before 12 months and offer no real benefit over much less expensive cow's milk after that age.

These products are often marketed with health claims that are not required to be backed by scientific evidence or FDA review, and they tend to be more expensive and sometimes higher in sugar than plain cow's milk. If your toddler has picky eating, allergies, or other special nutritional needs, talk to your pediatrician, since occasionally a fortified product may be considered case by case.

Bottom line: a normal toddler diet of cow's milk (or a fortified alternative), varied solid foods, and standard vitamin D supplementation as advised in Canada covers nutritional needs without a special toddler formula.