Sweet idea could see baby formula with anti-infective properties

Trials by Food for Health Ireland (FHI) researchers could lead to the creation of an enhanced infant formula with anti-infective ‘milk sugars’ similar to those found in breast milk.

A study by FHI researchers at Teagasc Food Research Centre, Moorepark, Co Cork, is highlighting cow’s milk as a potentially suitable source of oligosaccharides (or ‘milk sugars’) for use as functional ingredients in infant formula. These sugars are in higher concentrations in human milk, so future trials will seek to replicate this balance in infant formula.

“The industry response so far has been very positive,” said Rita Hickey, senior research officer with Teagasc, Moorepark. “This is phase two research, and we’re hoping to conduct higher level studies that would move us towards clinical trials.