Technological Advances in Infant Formula Ingredients

Abstract

The best source of nutrients for babies is breast milk. However, the baby formula offers a crucial alternative to nursing when it is not practical or viable to meet the growing child’s nutritional needs. Bovine milk has traditionally been used as a primary component in baby formula production. It is then prepared with additional nutrients and bioactive substances to resemble the makeup of human breastmilk closely. Bovine-based baby formula is the most accessible type of formula, but it is not appropriate for all newborns; thus, alternatives, including those based on caprine milk, soy, and rice protein, are becoming more readily available. The composition of baby formula made from soy, rice, caprine milk, and cow’s milk is thoroughly examined in this chapter. In addition, we cover the literature that is currently available on nutrient bio-accessibility and features of protein functioning that are pertinent to baby formula.