Arla Highlights Infant Nutrition Inspired by Nature

The team is responsible for milk-derived ingredients for infant formula, creating opportunities for manufacturers to match the nutritional profile of human breast milk more closely.

09/03/09 “Closer to Nature” is not just the name of the new company strategy. For the paediatric nutrition team within Arla Foods Ingredients, it is their highest objective.

The team is responsible for milk-derived ingredients for infant formula, creating opportunities for manufacturers to match the nutritional profile of human breast milk more closely.

Over the years, Arla Foods Ingredients has commercialised specialised whey proteins such as alpha-lactalbumin, osteopontin and milk fat globule membrane proteins – all identified as key components in breast milk.

“Genetically there are many similarities between mammals, which is why there are many of the same nutritional substances in bovine and human milk,” says Sven Høgh Petersen, paediatric team leader.

“Milk is the most complete nutrition from nature, and we consider it the most natural source of ingredients for infant formula.”

In addition to proteins, Arla Foods Ingredients investigates milk lipids and has launched a product rich in phospholipids, known to play a role in cognitive performance and the immune system. Other lipids currently of interest include gangliosides and sphingomyelin. Both are believed to contribute to the development of the brain and nervous system.

“It will never be possible to make an infant formula that is as good as human milk but, with the ingredients that are becoming available, manufacturers are getting closer and closer,” Sven comments.