It's widely recognized that breastmilk offers numerous health benefits, in addition to providing babies with the ideal balance of nutrients. Beyond nutrition, the hormonal responses involved in breastfeeding also foster strong bonds between mothers and their babies, resulting in calmer and more secure infants.
A key advantage of breastmilk is the exceptional immune support it provides. At the heart of this system is the neonatal microbiome, which is nurtured by specific components in breastmilk known as Human Milk Oligosaccharides (HMOs).
In recent years, some formula manufacturers have attempted to replicate these HMOs in formula ingredients. However, the results have not fully matched the benefits of breastmilk. A limited number of these molecules have been synthetically created and added to formula, but there is little evidence that they significantly improve children’s health.
The marketing practices around formula are often poorly regulated, and some misleading claims about formula containing HMOs have been identified and penalized.The formula industry, valued at billions of pounds, clearly has a financial interest in developing ingredients that support the human gut microbiome with proven health benefits.
However, there is also a legitimate goal of improving the health of infants who are unable to breastfeed. Current research is exploring the possibility of creating these ingredients by genetically modifying a plant from the tobacco family. Infant formula watchdogs are closely monitoring the progress of these developments but have yet to provide any official commentary on the newer innovations. In the meantime, for independent, evidence-based advice on formula milks, consider consulting First Steps Nutrition: https://www.firststepsnutrition.org/parents-carers