Infant formulae-Key components, nutritional value, and new perspectives

Breastfeeding is the most effective strategy for meeting the nutritional demands of infants, whilst infant formulae are manufactured foods that mimic human milk and can be safely used to replace breastfeeding. In this paper, the compositional differences between human milk and other mammalian milk are reviewed, and thus nutritional profiles and compositions of standard bovine milk-based formulae as well as special formulae are discussed. Differences between breast milk and other mammalian milk in composition and content affect their digestion and absorption in infants. Characteristics and mimicking of breast milk have been intensively studied with the objective of narrowing the gap between human milk and infant formulae. The functions of the key nutritional components in infant formulae are examined. This review detailed recent developments in the formulation of different types of special infant formulae and efforts for their humanization, and summarized safety and quality control of infant formulae.

Automated summary

Breastfeeding is the best way to meet infants' nutritional needs, but infant formula can be safely used as a substitute. This paper reviews the differences in composition between human milk and other mammalian milk and discusses the nutritional profiles and compositions of standard bovine milk-based formula and special formulas. The composition and content differences between breast milk and other mammalian milk affect digestion and absorption in infants. The study focuses on the mimicking of breast milk in infant formula and examines the functions of key nutritional components. The paper summarizes recent developments and efforts in formulating different types of special infant formula and discusses safety and quality control.