Breastfeeding is nothing new, of course. I say attempt because infant formulas compare rather woefully to human breastmilk. This is where the many, many benefits of breastfeeding your baby begins. For example, cow's milk contains very large amounts of protein since calves grow at such a rapid pace. Their bodies require a large amount of protein in order for their legs to have the strength for this.
Most infant formula is made from cow's milk.
However, it must be altered a great deal in order for it to be even remotely suitable for a human infant. It is diluted with water, but this then requires sugar to be added to make-up for the lost calories. Iron is also added in large quantities. Infant formula usually boasts a large amount of iron. Breastmilk contains relatively low amounts of iron.