Features of the functional composition of goat's milk and its importance as the basis for infant formula

Abstract

Goat milk has a long history of use in human nutrition. There are currently many studies examining the functional characteristics and nutritional value of goat milk and its importance in the production of various dairy products. Before, native goat milk was widely used for feeding young children if the breastfeeding was impossible. To date, however, the practice of feeding unmodified goat milk, as well as cow milk, to infants under 12 months of age is strongly discouraged, as this leaves them exposed to the risk of electrolyte imbalance, as well as iron, folic acid, and vitamin B12 deficiencies. Commercial production of formulas based on goat milk began in the 1980s, and since then there have been many studies which show the safety and effectiveness of these formulas. The review provides the latest evidenced-based information on the composition and functional properties of individual components of the goat milk and goat milk formulas. The protein and amino acid composition of goat milk, as well as the features of its effects on the formation of the infant's intestinal microbiota, are described in detail. The studies investigating goat milk oligosaccharides and their similarity to human milk oligosaccharides are presented. The characteristics of the goat milk fat profile have been demonstrated. As an example of an adapted goat milk formula, a formula designed to meet all standards is presented. The fat profile of the presented formula is modified by introducing a patented lipid complex consisting of β-palmitate in its composition. In addition, the presented formula composition includes such oligosaccharides as galacto- and fructo-oligosaccharides, which availability ensure the formation of an optimal intestinal microbiota.