Chr. Hansen study paves way for “next-generation infant formula”

11 Apr 2022 --- High concentrations of Human Milk Oligosaccharides (HMOs) can still be safe and well-tolerated by infants, according to a new study by Chr. Hansen.

The research is described as the largest data set to date, highlighting the wide distribution of natural concentrations of HMOs. 

“The results show that breast milk can have very high levels of HMO concentrations. We aim to mimic these levels in our products, to allow producers to offer infant formula products with a similar HMO concentration,” Dr. Katja Parschat, head of research and development, Chr. Hansen HMO, tells NutritionInsight.

“The findings give us more and even deeper insights into breast milk composition. Natural HMO concentrations in human breast milk vary widely and even high concentrations of single HMOs are safe for infant’s intake. We hope that the new data can start a new dialogue on HMO concentrations in infant formula,” she adds.

Immune and cognitive capacities of infant formula are key elements for the company’s future innovation. Delving into details
The objective of the research was to provide a clearer perspective on natural HMO concentrations and distribution in breast milk. They are described as important factors in developing next-generation infant formula products with an HMO composition that is closer to breast milk, the company underscores. 

“We especially wanted to find out how close the ratios in our 5 HMO Mix are to the concentrations found in breast milk and are excited to see the very positive results supporting our product offering. We will use this data to optimize our future offering,” Parschat adds.

Whereas studies have so far focused on the quantitation of HMOs in human milk, the latest review determines the natural concentrations of HMOs, Chr. Hansen notes. The concentration levels vary depending on the mother’s health and genetics, environmental and geographical factors, gestational age and lactation stage.

Next-generation infant formula
Out of over 150 HMOs identified in human breast milk, the five most prevalent and best-studied HMOs are 2'-fucosyllactose, 3-fucosyllactose, Lacto-N-tetraose, 3'-sialyllactose and 6'-sialyllactose.

Results show a wide distribution of HMO concentrations in breast milk, ranging up to as much as 10 g/L for the most prevalent one, 2’-fucosyllactose.

The study of the five most prevalent HMOs in breast milk are all included in Chr. Hansen’s 5HMO-Mix in concentrations closer to nature and respecting the natural variations, Mathiasen notes.

“Breastfeeding is best for infants and is recognized as the golden standard. Nature developed high complexity in HMO structures at highly variable concentrations for the best start for newborns,” Parschat explains.

“By providing products that mimic the natural structural diversity at natural concentrations, backed by scientific and clinical evidence of beneficial effects, next-generation infant formula can get even closer to human breast milk. Chr. Hansen 5 HMO Mix not only resembles HMOs’ structural diversity but also their concentration levels, taking infant formula to the next level.”The company notes it invests heavily on further research.

Eying health benefits
HMOs are the third most abundant component found in breast milk. They are one of several important components through which breastfeeding is explained to be the gold standard for infant nutrition, the company adds. 

“Latest research shows that HMOs contribute to breastfeeding-mediated benefits, such as supporting the immune system and healthy brain development. Also, HMOs are indicated to support gut maturation and resilience, as well as promotion of a balanced gut microbiome.” 

“Breastfeeding is the best way to ensure infant health and is recommended by the World Health Organization. We aim to support the healthy development of infants that cannot be breastfed by providing HMOs as an ingredient and blend for infant formula,” Mathiasen notes.

Industry has responded to increasing research on the role of the microbiome in maintaining infants’ health, with a host of NPD.

DSM has also eyed bringing personalization to the HMO arena with the possibility of producing personalized formula more accurately. 

By Andria Kades