Baby formula breakthrough: Danone’s latest infant nutrition concept mirrors rate of breast milk absorption

22 Nov 2023 --- Food and beverage multinational Danone has developed a concept baby formula with large, milk phospholipid-coated lipid droplets inspired by the structure, size and composition of lipid globules found in breast milk. The structure allows for digestion, absorption and nutrient utilization similar to breast milk.

The formula concept was studied as part of a randomized, controlled, double-blind clinical trial — the Mercurius study.

A new study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition shows that the long-term health effects of a concept baby formula with lipid droplets are closer to those of breast milk. These large, milk phospholipid-coated lipid droplets are inspired by breast milk’s complex lipid globule structure, size and composition.

“In this trial, we investigated the long-term health effects of a concept baby formula containing lipid droplets with a size and structure inspired by the lipid globules in breast milk,” says Anita Hokken, lead investigator of the Mercurius follow-up study. 

“The study results show that a baby formula containing these large lipid droplets coated with milk phospholipids results in growth patterns closer to breastfed babies and, as such, may have the potential for a lasting impact on childhood overweight prevention.”

Lasting formula
The study shows that the formula has a lasting impact on babies’ long-term growth and blood pressure for up to five years. Babies fed the formula in their first four months have a body mass index (BMI) pattern similar to breastfed babies. In addition, they exhibit lower blood pressure for up to five years.

According to Nutricia, a Danone brand, there is increasing evidence that BMI in early life is an indicator of the development of body weight into adulthood. High blood pressure during childhood may increase, potentially tracking into adulthood, and is considered a cardiovascular disease risk factor.Danone’s latest infant formula mimics the properties of breastmilk using specially coated lipid droplets. 

The formula has been shown in studies to positively affect cognitive outcomes during childhood, demonstrating performance equal to breast milk. The formula is well tolerated and supports adequate growth in healthy babies during the first four months of life.

“In the coming years, further research will help us shed light on the potential long-term impact of lipid droplet characteristics on a baby’s growth trajectory, body composition and other health outcomes,” says Hokken.

Optimum source of energy
Breast milk is a complex substance composed of lactose, lipids, human milk oligosaccharides, proteins, vitamins and minerals. Breast milk is rich in lipids, which serve as a critical energy source and are essential for the healthy growth and development of a baby. It contains lipid globules with a specific structure, size and composition.

Earlier this year, Danone launched its synbiotic supplement Almimama, a combination of the L. salivarius PS2 probiotic strain with fructooligosaccharides nutrifibers. The supplement reduces incidences of mastitis – a painful inflammation of the breast tissue – in nursing mothers.

The company’s Specialized Nutrition division drove a 3.3% sales increase in China, North Asia and Oceania, while the COVID-19 pandemic-related restrictions and lockdowns penalized Mizone – the company’s China-based vitamin drink brand.

Last year, when the US grappled with infant formula shortages, Danone’s Nutricia exported specialized formula, which is extensively hydrolyzed, and 24,000 cans of Pepticate Syneo.

By Inga de Jong