Yes, babies need either formula, or breastmilk for the first year of life. They need the nutrients that are not available from other sources. However, solids can be introduced between 4-6 months, and cows milk (according to my pediatrition) can be introduced at 10 months. This is JUST an introduction though, and NOT to replace the formula. She suggested giving the milk in a cup to allow the child to get used to not only the milk, but also used to drinking from a cup. As the amount of solids increase, the amount of formula given levels off and then declines. By one year, a formula fed infant can generally transition completely to cows milk, soy milk, etc., but if you do not introduce it before that, you will have to continue to give the child formula until s/he gets used to it. You can not just switch one day from formula to cows milk etc. as that will not only upset the child, but upset their stomach as well.
Source(s):
http://www.babycenter.com.sg/baby/formula/howmuchmilk/

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