Safety of Infant formulas with added long chain polyunsatured fats and Bifidobacterium lactis

Long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LCPUFA) such as DHA, and probiotics such as Bifidobacterium lactis, are added to some infant formulas in Australia. The Heinz Nurture Gold infant formula range contains these additions.  A randomized controlled study undertaken in South Australia has shown that these formulas are safe, with infant growth rates and formula tolerance similar to those infants fed formulas without these additions (1).

One hundred and forty two (142) exclusively formula fed term infants were enrolled in the study within 10 days of their birth and were followed for 7 months.  Seventy two (72)  infants received the  experimental starter formula containing the LCPUFA and probiotic while 70 received the standard starter formula. Both formulas were the same except to for the addition of LCPUFA and the probiotic. Solids could be introduced from 4 months. Growth (weight gain, length, head circumference, BMI) was measured and formula tolerance ( volume consumed; stool frequency, colour, consistency; spitting feeds; behaviour) noted as well as the immune response following administration of vaccines.

The study found no significant differences between the two groups in terms of weight, length, head circumference, BMI and position of the z scores for weight-for- age, length-for-age, and head circumference- for- age on the CDC growth charts. The experimental group, due to the composition of the formula had higher DHA, AA and EPA concentrations in their red blood cells while those on the standard formula had higher concentrations of linleic and  alpha linolenic acids. There was no difference in the immune response of the two groups to the vaccines administered. Both formulas were well tolerated  but the experimental group had more yellow than green stools.

The study overall showed that infant formulas with added LCPUF  and probiotics are well tolerated and safe. TFurther studies are probably required to  assess their effect more closely on the immune system.

Reference

1.Gibson RA, Barclay D, Marshall H et al. Safety of supplementing infant formula with long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids and Bifidobacterium lactis in term infants: a randomised controlled study. British Journal of Nutrition 2009;101:1706-1713

http://journals.cambridge.org/action/displayIssue?jid=BJN&decade=2000&volumeld=101&issueld=11&iid=5830424