Chinese Breast Milk Study Gives Opportunities for Formula
11 May 2015 --- A study initiated by Chr. Hansen has shown that bifidobacteria and lactobacilli are present in breast milk from Chinese mothers, strengthening the case for adding clinically documented probiotics to infant formula, in order to improve nutrition.
The study was initiated by Chr. Hansen and conducted in collaboration with Shanghai Institute of Pediatric Research. The main author, Dr. Linxi Qian, presented the results last week at the European Society for Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition 2015, in Amsterdam.
Chr. Hansen continuously invests in clinical studies within the infant segment, and previous studies have shown that the probiotic Bifidobacterium strain named BB-12 may be effective in preventing gastrointestinal and respiratory infections in infants and children. The product portfolio also includes Lactobacillus, LGG which is the world’s best documented lactobacillus.
Mikkel Jungersen, Scientific Advisor, Human Health & Nutrition, Chr. Hansen, says: “The confirmed presence of bifidobacteria and lactobacilli in Chinese breast milk is essential knowledge for all those who are active in the infant formula business in China. It makes sense for a mother who is feeding her baby with infant formula to prefer a product resembling real breast milk the most, and this study shows that bifidobacteria and/or lactobacilli are essential additives to nutritious infant formula.”
