Baby Food Research Articles

Enhancing Baby Food Safety - integrating Advanced Sensor Technology and Blockchain for Contaminant Detection and Transparency

The “Type of Article” of this paper is “Letter to the Editor”. This paper discuses about: “Enhancing Baby Food Safety - integrating Advanced Sensor Technology and Blockchain for Contaminant Detection and Transparency”. No formal abstract is available. Readers are requested to read the full article.

Social Psychological and Cultural Resilience in Its Influence on Exclusive Breastfeeding Behavior

ABSTRACT Mother's milk (ASI) is the best food for babies that cannot be replaced by anything. Breastfeeding has been proven to be beneficial for both the baby and the mother. However, the coverage rate for achieving exclusive breastfeeding is still far below the target. This research aims to determine the influence of social psychological and socio-cultural resilience on exclusive breastfeeding behavior. This research is an analytical study with a cross sectional design. The sample in this study was 108 postpartum mothers taken using a simple random sampling technique. The independent variables in this research are social psychological and socio-cultural resilience, while the dependent variable is the behavior of postpartum mothers in providing exclusive breastfeeding. Data collection in this study used a questionnaire and was analyzed bivariately using the Chi Square and Fisher Exact Tests, while multivariate analysis used the Logistic Regression Test. The results of analysis using the Chi Square and/or Fisher Exact tests showed a p value > 0.05 for all indicators of social psychological resilience, which means that there are no indicators in this dimension that have an influence on exclusive breastfeeding. Meanwhile, for the socio-cultural resilience variable, the result was a p value of 0.014 or p value <0.05 on the social care indicator, which means that social care has a significant influence on exclusive breastfeeding. So it can be concluded that social psychological resilience has no effect on exclusive breastfeeding, while socio-cultural resilience influences exclusive breastfeeding on indicators of social concern.

Parental experience administering epinephrine for systemic reactions during infant and toddler oral food challenges

This study suggests that even when an oral food challenge results in a reaction that necessitates treatment with an epinephrine auto-injector, the experience can be positive and confidence-building for patients' families.

Microbiological Quality and Antibiotic Resistance of Home-made and Commercial Complementary Foods: A Comparative Pilot Study

Objective The study aims to compare the microbiological quality and antibiotic resistance profiles of homemade and commercial infant foods. Materials and Methods: A variety of both homemade and commercially available infant foods were collected and analyzed for microbial content and antibiotic resistance patterns using standard microbiological methods. Findings: The study observed that prolonged storage significantly impacted the microbiological quality of infant foods. It was found that both homemade and commercial products showed an increase in microbial growth over time. Notably, the presence of pathogenic bacteria was detected in several samples, indicating potential health risks for infants. Conclusion: The study highlights the need for better awareness and standards in the preparation and selection of infant foods, considering the microbiological safety and emerging antibiotic resistance issues.

Vibration Stimulation to Increase Milk Production in Puerperal Mothers

Breast milk is the best food for babies, but insufficient production can hinder breastfeeding. Many mothers face challenges with milk production, preventing optimal breastfeeding. This study aims to innovate and develop a vibration-based electric massage device to enhance breast milk production and analyze its effectiveness based on baby weight indicators. The research employs a quantitative method with a Quasi-Experimental design, divided into an intervention group and a control group. A random sampling technique selected 46 respondents, split evenly between the two groups. The intervention group received breast care using the vibration-based device, while the control group received standard breast care for 14 days. Breast care was administered twice daily for 2-3 minutes. Baby weight was measured at 14, 21, and 28 days. Tools to measure energy intake, protein intake, and fluid intake utilized food recall, and breastfeeding frequency was measured by a scale. Psychological status was assessed using the DASS questionnaire. Data analysis included Repeated Measure ANOVA and Independent Simple T-Test. Results indicated a significant difference in breast milk production based on baby weight between the intervention and control groups (p=0.000). The mean weight difference between the groups was 200.21 grams, favoring the intervention group. Increased breast milk production was not influenced by confounding variables such as energy intake, protein intake, fluid intake, breastfeeding frequency, and psychological status. In conclusion, the developed vibration-based electric massage device effectively increased breast milk production, evidenced by significant weight gain in babies within the intervention group compared to the control group (p=0.000).

Multi-Drug Resistant Bacillus cereus: A Growing Concern for Powdered Infant Formula and Baby Foods (Cereals) in Bangladesh

Multi-Drug Resistant Bacillus cereus: A Growing Concern for Powdered Infant Formula and Baby Foods (Cereals) in Bangladesh

Introduction of Solid Foods in Preterm Infants and Its Impact on Growth in the First Year of Life-A Prospective Observational Study.

The aim of this study was to investigate whether age at introduction of solid foods in preterm infants influences growth in the first year of life. This was a prospective observational study in very low birth weight infants stratified to an early (<17 weeks corrected age) or a late (≥17 weeks corrected age) feeding group according to the individual timing of weaning. In total, 115 infants were assigned to the early group, and 82 were assigned to the late group. Mean birth weight and gestational age were comparable between groups (early: 926 g, 26 + 6 weeks; late: 881 g, 26 + 5 weeks). Mean age at weaning was 13.2 weeks corrected age in the early group and 20.4 weeks corrected age in the late group. At 12 months corrected age, anthropometric parameters showed no significant differences between groups (early vs. late, mean length 75.0 vs. 74.1 cm, weight 9.2 vs. 8.9 kg, head circumference 45.5 vs. 45.0 cm). A machine learning model showed no effect of age at weaning on length and length z-scores at 12 months corrected age. Infants with comorbidities had significantly lower anthropometric z-scores compared to infants without comorbidities. Therefore, regardless of growth considerations, we recommend weaning preterm infants according to their neurological abilities.

Trends and practices of weaning in infants across India: A comprehensive review.

Weaning is a critical phase in an infant's life, during which there is a transition from exclusive breastfeeding or formula feeding to consuming solid foods. Weaning is a critical step in determining a child's nutritional status, growth, and general health. India is a multiethnic and culturally diverse nation and has a variety of weaning practices that are affected by local customs, religious beliefs, and socioeconomic concerns. Malnutrition brought on by inadequate weaning methods used in infancy and early childhood may have an impact on cognitive, motor and social, development and productivity of the child, more importantly manifesting in later ages. Weaning customs in India have a long history of being ingrained in both family and cultural traditions. The variety of Indian cuisine is reflected in the meals that are offered to the infant during weaning. Homemade food commonly prepared like mashed fruits and vegetables, lentil soups, and rice porridge are the most popular. However, the inclination by parents toward professionally produced infant foods and formulas has increased because of urbanization and globalization; there have been observable changes in weaning practices over the past few decades because of changing lifestyles and easier access. These foods are frequently thought of as more convenient but may not be as nutrient-dense as homemade alternatives. Not following the medically recommended mandate of an exclusive diet of mother's breast milk to the infant, many parents often begin introducing complementary foods as early as four months. Still most concerningly also the timing of weaning commencement varies significantly across areas and communities. Overall, this review offers valuable insights into the current trends and practices of weaning in infants across India, underscoring the importance of culturally sensitive and informed strategies to ensure the well-being of the nation's youngest population.

A Descriptive Study of Spanish and Ecuadorian Commercial Infant Cereals: Are They in Line with Current Recommendations?

Cereals are an important source of nutrients, especially used in complementary feeding. The objective of this study is to review the nutritional composition of cereal-based foods for infants from 4 months and toddlers that are offered in Spain and Ecuador, countries selected because of the opportunity to work in them, and due to their socio-economic differences (industrialized and developing countries, respectively). The number of these products was 105 cereals in Spain and 22 in Ecuador. The products were classified as gluten-free cereals, five cereals, eight cereals, multigrain cereals, and cookies. A 25 g serving was used to determine the percentage in which the samples analyzed can cover the Reference Nutrient Intake (RNI) for micronutrients in infants from 7 months and toddlers according to the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). Nutritional information per 100 g of dry product was collected according to medium, minimum, and maximum units, and nutrient density was calculated. The age range in which these products are recommended is different in both countries. The nutritional composition presents some differences; Spanish cereals show a lower content of sodium, added sugars, hydrolyzed cereals, and maltodextrin than Ecuadorian cereals. Commercialized cereals could contribute to satisfying the nutritional needs of infants and toddlers; however, they can also be a source of non-recommended components.

Proposed contract manufacturing strategy for Baby Food Industry using Kepner-Tregoe and Analytic Hierarchy Process (Ahp) Approach

Purpose: The aim of this study is to select the best contract manufacturing strategy to ensure sustainable growth and fulfillment of MA baby food at PT. S.A. Methods: This study used qualitative and quantitative research methods. The qualitative approach involves conducting interviews and forum group discussions (FGD) with Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) to determine the root cause of problems using Kapner Tragoe and Why Tree Diagram analysis and to determine the criteria and alternative solutions for this problem. The quantitative approach uses the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) to select the best alternative solution. Results: Using the AHP method, the most important criteria that could influence the decision-making process were schedule (32.95%), cost (30.31%), delivery (16.44%), capacity (8.66%), ability (6.79%), and quality (4.86%). The best alternative solution for the short term to resolve the business issue is “Produce in existing contract manufacturing and distribute using 3rd party trader (58,09%)”. This alternative solution will ensure fulfillment and prevent sales losses of 96 billion but with a trade-off of a 10% increase in costs. Meanwhile, the best alternative solutions for long term is “Terminate existing Manufacture &amp; Produce in Alternative Local Contract Manufacture in Indonesia (31,55%)”. This alternative solution provides cost savings equivalent to 8.8% of the existing COGS and ensures sustainable growth and fulfillment of MA baby food at PT. S.A.

Use of baby food products during the complementary feeding period: What factors drive parents' choice of products?

It is recommended that infants are introduced to complementary foods from 6 months old, moving from a solely milk diet to eating a family diet by 12 months old. Although home cooking of family foods is recommended, a rapidly growing market producing baby food products (BFP) such as jars, pouches and snacks has developed. These are often accompanied by marketing claims around nutritional, health and developmental impacts despite research highlighting high sugar content. Although numerous studies have explored drivers of infant formula choice and use, little research has examined the drivers of BFP use. This study used an online survey for United Kingdom parents of infants aged 4-12 months to explore use of BFP alongside perceptions and drivers to purchase products. Overall, 271 parents participated (173 used BFP and 98 did not), with a descriptive analysis of closed items and a thematic analysis for open ended text conducted. The top motivators for using BFP were convenience, time saving, and baby's perceived enjoyment of products. The most purchased puree was fruit based and the most purchased baby snacks were vegetable puffs/sticks, with snack purchases being more common than purees in this sample. Aspects such as perceived healthiness drove choice, with snack foods being seen to enhance self-feeding skills, appetite regulation and motor development. Those who did not use BFP did not trust them and preferred to feed their baby home cooked foods. The findings are important for professionals working with parents, to support them through the transition to solid foods, particularly around raising awareness of marketing techniques and how to check content of foods to make a more informed choice.

Improved efficiency of ion trapping time-of-flight mass spectrometry for the analysis of pesticide residues and mycotoxins at trace levels in baby food

The analysis of pesticide residues and mycotoxins in baby food demands exceptionally low limits of quantitation, necessitating the use of highly sensitive instruments capable of conducting trace analyses. High-resolution instruments typically fail to detect such low levels. However, the latest advancements in liquid time-of-flight technology, when coupled with ion trapping, enable ion enrichment, thereby improving detection levels. This allows for the analysis of these substances at low concentration levels, benefiting from enhanced mass accuracy. Additionally, the use of mass accuracy data helped eliminate matrix interferences, thereby enabling high-confidence identification. We developed a multi-residue method to analyse 219 pesticide residues and 9 mycotoxin residues in baby food matrices. Utilizing a QuEChERS-based extraction method, the samples were then analysed using an LC-ZenoTOF 7600 system with mass window screening acquisition. For pesticides, the limit of quantitation was 0.001–0.003 mg/kg for 81 % of the evaluated compounds, 0.005 mg/kg for 13 %, 0.010 mg/kg for 4 % and 0.020–0.030 for 2 %; good linearities were obtained at these levels. Apparent recoveries were evaluated at 0.003, 0.005, and 0.010 mg/kg. At the lowest recovery level, 93 % of compounds showed recoveries between 70 and 120 %. The rest of the compounds were in the range of 63–129 %, with relative standard deviation values below 20 %. For mycotoxins, the limits of quantitation ranged from 0.0001 to 0.100 mg/kg, with matrix-matched concentrations assessed within this range. Recoveries were evaluated at low concentration range (0.001–0.003 mg/kg) and high range (0.020–0.050) with apparent recoveries values between 92 and 140 %. Finally, a total of 31 commercial baby food samples were analysed using this method. The results indicated that 16 samples contained pesticide residues, while two samples were found to have mycotoxins.

Targeted quantification and untargeted exploration of furan and derivatives in infant food by headspace extraction-gas chromatography-Q Exactive Orbitrap mass spectrometry

The aim of the present study was to assess the performance and complementarity of methods capable of both quantifying furan, 2-Methylfuran (2-MF) and 3-Methylfuran (3-MF) in infant foods, but also to comprehensively explore other furan derivatives. It is more particularly a question of validating and comparing the couplings of the two headspace extraction methods most used for the analysis of furan compounds − Headspace Solid Phase Microextraction (HS-SPME) and Static HeadSpace (SHS) – with gas chromatography hyphenated to a high-resolution mass detector (Q Exactive-Orbitrap MS) which allows both targeted quantification and suspect screening. Firstly, the accuracy profile approach was implemented to assess, validate and compare HS-SPME- and SHS-GC-Q Exactive-Orbitrap MS for the quantification of furan in two model infant foods, apple puree and first infant formula. SHS-GC-Q Exactive-Orbitrap MS, showed better accuracy (uncertainty < 17.2 % vs 22.5 % for HS-SPME GC-Q Exactive-Orbitrap MS) and better sensitivity (LOQ < 2.8 vs LOQ < 4.0 µg/kg) over a broader validation range (2–100 µg/kg vs 5–100 µg/kg in apple puree). Secondly, SHS-GC-Q Exactive-Orbitrap MS was assessed and validated by accuracy profile for the quantification of 2-MF and 3-MF, with performance close to those for furan except for 3-MF in apple puree. Thirdly, SHS-GC-Q Exactive-Orbitrap MS was used to quantify the levels of these compounds in 20 commercial samples (n = 3) belonging to the four main categories of infant food (infant formulae, fruit purees, infant cereals, vegetable/fish baby meals). Furan was quantified in 75 % of the samples, with maximum levels in the vegetable/fish-based infant foods (up to 127 µg/kg) while 2-MF and 3-MF were quantified in 45 % and 15 % of products respectively, with maximum levels of 14.1 µg/kg in follow-on formula 3rd age and 9.2 µg/kg in apple puree. Finally, SHS- and HS-SPME-GC-Q Exactive-Orbitrap MS data of the 20 infant products were processed in suspect screening mode using Compound DiscovererTM software. Coupling with HS-SPME, it made it possible to identify 13 additional furan derivatives, i.e. 5 more than with SHS. The relevance and safety status of the compounds identified are discussed.

THE INFLUENCE OF MARMET TECHNIQUE ON ASI PRODUCTION IN POST PARTUM MOTHERS

Breast milk is the best and most ideal food for babies, because breast milk contains all the nutrients needed in the right amount and balance. In addition, breast milk contains immune substances or antibodies that function to protect infants from various germs so that they can prevent various diseases that are at risk of increASIng morbidity and mortality in infants. However, until now there are still many babies who do not get breast milk on the first day of birth, this causes many nutritional problems for babies in Indonesia to occur, one of which is insufficient nutrition in infants. This research is a quantitative method using a quASI-experimental method. This study aims to determine whether there is an effect of the Marmet Technique on Breast Milk Production in Postpartum Mothers at the Village Health Post of Simpang Bayat Bayung Lencir in 2023. This research was conducted in March-June 2023. The population in this study were all post partum mothers 1-7 days at the Simpang Bayat Poskesdes totaling 24 post partum mothers. The sample of this research is 20 people. The technique used is Accidental Sampling. This research uses univariate and bivariate analysis. Based on the results of the study, it was shown that there was an increase in milk production using the guinea pig technique and data analysis obtained p value = 0.000 (α &lt; 0.05) so that there was an influence between the guinea pig technique and breast milk production. It is hoped that the results of this study can provide additional knowledge for health workers in providing care for breastfeeding mothers in increASIng breast milk production, as well as for midwifery education can add to midwifery literature so that they can provide broader insights on maternity, especially regarding how to expel breast milk

Carcinogenic Risk from Lead and Cadmium Contaminating Cow Milk and Soya Beverage Brands Available in the Portuguese Market.

Our previous work demonstrated the presence of lead (Pb) and cadmium (Cd) contamination in cow milk (CM) and soy beverages (SBs) in Portugal. These metals share carcinogenic mechanisms, suggesting at least additive effects. Our goals were to assess carcinogenic risks from Pb and Cd intake detected in various CM and SB brands on the Portuguese market and to determine the relative contributions of Pb and Cd. Furthermore, we modeled different consumption scenarios for various age/body weight groups to estimate cumulative Excess Lifetime Carcinogenic Risk (ELCR). ELCR was computed by multiplying chronic daily intake by a cancer slope factor for each metal, with an ELCR > 1 × 10-4 indicating carcinogenic risk. Five CM and three SB brands posed cancer risks in children, with the highest values at 1.75 × 10-4 and 9.12 × 10-5, respectively; Pb had mean relative contributions of 87.8 ± 3.1% in CM and 54.9 ± 12.1% in SB. Carcinogenic risks were observed for children, adolescents, and adults in several CM or SB consumption scenarios, albeit at levels above typical Portuguese intakes. Strict monitoring of metal levels, such as Pb and Cd, is advised because CM is a component of many foods, including baby food.

The relative validity of nutrition assessment methods for estimating infant carotenoid intake differs by assessment tool, nutrient database, and milk carotenoid adjustment method

Validated carotenoid assessment methods are needed to study infant carotenoid nutrition. This is a secondary analysis of repeated diet assessments of healthy participants collected at 4- (n = 21), 6- (n = 12), and 8- (n = 9) months of age in Houston, TX between April 2019 and June 2020. Intake was assessed with 3 assessment tools, analyzed with 3 nutrient databases, and underwent 3 adjustments to account for milk composition variability. We hypothesized that manual adjustment of milk carotenoid intake based on laboratory measurements would improve the validity of all assessment approaches and that using a database with greater coverage of infant food carotenoid compositions would improve accuracy. Generalized linear mixed models assessed associations between tool, nutrient database, age, and milk carotenoid adjustment variables with carotenoid, energy, fruit, and vegetable intakes. The effect of the number of food diary days on intake estimate precision was evaluated by testing the correlation between intake estimates derived from 1, 3, or 5, vs. 7 days. Visit age influenced energy intake estimates (p = .029), along with assessment tool (p = .020). Estimates of vegetable intake were influenced by tool (p = .009). Combined fruit and vegetable intake differed by nutrient database (p = .007). Carotenoid intake differed by age (p =<.0001), tool (p = .002), and nutrient database (p = .004). A minimum of 3 food diary days strongly correlated (rho = 0.79-1) with reference estimates across ages. Milk carotenoid adjustment was most influential in estimating 4-month olds’ carotenoid intake, while nutrient database and tool were important for 6- and 8-month-olds’, highlighting the dynamic nature of infant diet assessment validity across feeding stages.

ПОКАЗАТЕЛИ КАЧЕСТВА МОЛОКА И МОЛОЧНОЙ ПРОДУКТИВНОСТИ ПРИ ИСПОЛЬЗОВАНИИ ПРЕПАРАТА «ЙОДИНОЛ-ЯНТАРНЫЙ» В РАЦИОНЕ ЛАКТИРУЮЩИХ КОЗОМАТОК НУБИЙСКОЙ МЯСО-МОЛОЧНОЙ ПОРОДЫ

Proper nutrition is a prerequisite for normal physiological and mental development, as well as strengthening immunity to various adverse environmental factors. Goat milk products are especially relevant in baby food due to their unique properties. The reduced casein content in the fractional composition of proteins makes the products hypoallergenic, and the predominance of casein contributes to the rapid formation of a fine clot in the child's stomach. A high naive degree of fat dispersion facilitates and improves its assimilation, and also contributes to the assimilation of a large amount of polyunsaturated fatty acids that ensure the normal development and formation of the child's body. In addition, goat's milk contains a large amount of vitamins: A, C, B, PP, as well as trace elements: calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, cobalt. Providing children with high-quality balanced food is an important state task, the fulfillment of which is the key to the health of the nation. Since most regions of Russia are iodine deficient, they need the trace element iodine for life, which is why it is necessary to adjust the mineral composition of goat's milk. For the animals themselves, this is also relevant for the treatment and prevention of iodine deficiency. The influence of an energy-metabolic preparation based on iodine and succinic acid on the quality indicators of milk and milk productivity of lactating goats is considered. Literature data indicate an increase in the therapeutic effect when succinic acid is added to the active substance. In nature, there is a direct relationship between the iodine content in soil, water, plants and in the animal body. With insufficient intake of iodine with feed and water, the productivity, reproductive qualities, and genetic potential of animals decrease. Therefore, an urgent problem is to find ways to replenish iodine deficiency in the body of farm animals. In this regard, studies were conducted on the quality of milk of lactating goats of the Nubian meat and dairy breed when they were injected with a new drug "Iodinol-Yantarny". The effective effect of this drug on milk quality indicators in dairy goat breeding has been proven.

Mother-infant feeding interactions in mothers with and without eating disorder history: Results of a structured observational study

BackgroundA growing body of evidence suggests that children of mothers with eating disorders (EDs) have a greater risk of early feeding problems. Recognizing and reacting adequately to the infant's signals during feeding is crucial for the child's development of internal and external regulatory mechanisms of food intake. Parental EDs might affect this ability. Therefore, we investigated the quality of mother-infant interactions during feeding using video recording and a structured coding system. MethodsThe data of this pilot study was collected in a prospective cohort study investigating the influence of maternal EDs on child outcomes. Twenty women with ED history and 31 control women were videotaped while feeding their infant during a main meal at ten months postpartum. The mother-infant interactions were evaluated by two raters using the Chatoor Feeding Scale. We assessed birth outcomes, the mother's ED and depression status, breastfeeding practices, infant feeding problems and infant temperament by maternal self-report. ResultsMothers with and without ED history scored very similar on the Feeding Scale, however mothers from the control group experienced more struggle for control with their infants during feeding (p = 0.046) and made more negative comments about the infant's food intake (p = 0.010). Mothers with ED history were more concerned about infant feeding at three months postpartum and reported significantly more problems with solid foods in their children. Birth outcomes were comparable between groups, except for lower weight-for-length birth percentiles in children of women with ED history. ConclusionWhilst examined mothers with ED history are more concerned about feeding their children, ED psychopathology does not affect the quality of mother-infant interaction during feeding at the transition to autonomous eating at ten months of age.

A sensitive method for the determination of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances in food and food contact material using high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry

Dietary intake is the major pathway of human exposure to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). Due to their generally very low concentrations in food, especially for foods of plant origin, and their toxicological relevance, demand is growing for improved selective and sensitive analytical methods for the determination of PFAS in the lower ng/kg range. The relevance is pointed out due to the fact that the European Commission has published limits of quantification (LOQs) in the lower ng/kg range for different food matrices in Recommendation (EU) 2022/1431 on the monitoring of perfluoroalkyl substances in food. For example, LOQs of 2 ng/kg for perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS), 1 ng/kg for perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), 1 ng/kg for perfluorononanoic acid (PFNA) and 4 ng/kg for perfluorohexanesulfonic acid (PFHxS) in fruit, vegetables and baby foods are required. A new, very sensitive method is presented here for the determination of 22 PFAS in food and food contact materials. The method is based on liquid-solid extraction and automated clean-up using two solid phase extraction techniques. The analytes are separated and detected by HPLC-MS/MS. A limit of detection (LOD) of 0.33 ng/kg and an LOQ of 1.0 ng/kg are attained for plant foods such as fruits and vegetables as well as for milk and baby food. For foods of animal origin such as egg, meat, fish and paper-based food contact materials an LOD of 1.6 ng/kg as well as an LOQ of 5.0 ng/kg are attained. PFOS and PFOA were the most abundant compounds in the food samples with concentration as high as 1,051 ng/kg of PFOA in sea weed samples and 772 ng/kg of PFOS in eggs samples. In food contact material samples, higher levels were found with a maximum of 310,000 ng/kg PFHxA. In sum the presented method firstly allows determination of PFAS in a wide variety of foodstuffs and paper-based food contact materials at EU-required concentration ranges.

Milk fat globule membrane proteins are crucial in regulating lipid digestion during simulated in vitro infant gastrointestinal digestion

Products of lipolysis released during digestion positively affect the metabolism of newborns. In contrast to the 3-layer biological membranes covering human milk (HM) fat, the lipid droplets in infant milk formula (IMF) are covered by a single membrane composed of casein and whey proteins. To reduce the differences in lipid structure between IMF and HM, studies have used milk fat globule membrane (MFGM) components such as milk polar lipids (MPL) to prepare emulsions mimicking HM fat globules However, few studies have elucidated the effect of membrane proteins (MP) on lipid digestion in infants. In this study, 3 kinds of emulsions were prepared: One with MPL as the interfaced of lipid droplets (RE-1), one with membrane protein concentrate (MPC) (RE-2) as the interface of lipid droplets, and one with both MPL and MPC (1:2) as the co-interface of lipid droplets (RE-3). The interfacial coverage of the emulsions was confirmed by measuring the contents of MPL and MPC at the lipid droplet interface, and by confocal laser scanning microscopy analyzed. By controlling the homogenization intensity, the specific surface area of lipid droplets was controlled at the same level among the 3 emulsions. The stability constants of the emulsions varied, and RE-1 was the most stable. During simulated in vitro infant gastrointestinal digestion, the amount of free fatty acids (FFA) released from the lipid droplets was significantly higher from those with MPC at the interface (RE-2, RE-3) than from that with MPL at the interface (RE-1). The amount of FFA released at the end of intestinal digestion of RE-1, RE-2, and RE-3 was 255.00 ± 3.54 µmol,328.75 ± 5.30 µmol, 298.50 ± 9.19 µmol, respectively. Compared with the lipid droplets in RE-2, those with MPL at the interface (RE-1, RE-3) released more unsaturated fatty acids (USFAs) during digestion. The emulsifying activity index was highest in RE-3 (MPL and MPC co-interface). The presence of MPL at the emulsion interface increased the release of USFAs, while the presence of MPC increased the release of FFA. These results show that both MPL and MP are indispensable in the construction of MFGM. Understanding their effects on digestion can provide new strategies for the development of infant foods.