Advancing Infant Formulas: A Focus on Gut Health and Immunity

Key players in the industry, including Valio, Fonterra, dsm-firmenich, and Gnosis by Lesaffre, are at the forefront of these innovations. Dr. Anu Turpeinen from Valio notes the rising interest in functional ingredients, particularly those enhancing immune function and supporting gut well-being. Human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs), probiotics, and protein hydrolysates are gaining popularity, contributing to the formulation of advanced infant nutrition options.

Angela Rowan of Fonterra highlights parents' consistent concerns, including growth, digestive comfort, immune protection, brain development, and the reduction of sugar. Even as growth in the infant formula market slows, there is an increasing demand for premium ingredients like probiotics, alpha-lactalbumin, milk fat globule membrane (MFGM), and human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs).

Despina Ioannides from dsm-firmenich underscores the significance of breast milk as the golden standard for infant nutrition, inspiring ingredient clusters such as pre-/pro- and postbiotics. Biotech-derived bioactive peptides and advancements in biotechnology are contributing to the development of solutions that mimic breast milk components, unlocking its wonders.

Companies are urged to respond to parents' concerns by continually improving infant formula offerings with ingredients that bring them closer to breast milk composition. Dr. Turpeinen emphasizes the importance of addressing specialized needs, such as lactose-free formulas for infants with digestive disorders, and Valio aims to expand its portfolio to include hypoallergenic formulas for the growing number of infants with allergic diseases.

Immunity claims continue to be relevant in infant nutrition, and companies like Fonterra are incorporating probiotic ingredients in clinical studies to support digestive health and immunity. HN019 and HN001, probiotics used by Fonterra, demonstrate benefits such as the development of bifidobacterial balance, protection against respiratory infections, and support for maternal health.

Silvia Pisoni from Gnosis by Lesaffre highlights the need for adequate folate intake for pregnant and breastfeeding women. The active form of folate, Quatrefolic, is recommended as a supplement to ensure an adequate folate status in infants, avoiding harmful health effects associated with unmetabolized folic acid.

In conclusion, the infant formula industry continues to evolve, with a keen focus on innovation to provide optimal nutrition for infants, addressing specific health concerns, and aligning with parents' preferences for natural and sustainable choices.