Unraveling the Potential of Human Milk Oligosaccharides (HMOs) in Infant Formula

While breast milk is universally acknowledged as the gold standard for infant nutrition, its accessibility can be a challenge. In response, the introduction of infant formula fortified with human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs) has emerged as a revolutionary product, aiming to replicate the nutritional composition of breast milk.

Feeding baby bottle formula

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During a recent webinar on infant and children's health hosted by Vitafoods Insights in July 2023, Dr. Regina Karim, the Global Senior Science Manager at H&H Group, a prominent global health and nutrition company, shared insights into H&H’s research on the health benefits associated with HMOs.

Ongoing research is essential to thoroughly assess the pros and cons of incorporating individual HMOs into formulas in comparison to natural breast milk. A comprehensive review conducted in 2023 by the HMO science team from Chr. Hansen, published in Nutrients, analyzed 26 clinical studies involving the supplementation of manufactured HMOs. These studies consistently affirmed the safety and tolerability of HMO supplementation. Notably, when focusing on infant studies, improvements in gut microbiome and immune markers were reported, closely mirroring outcomes observed in breastfed infants.

However, the industry faces the challenge of balancing the evident advantages of HMOs with affordability. The significant costs associated with integrating HMOs into infant formula can pose accessibility challenges, particularly in regions grappling with high inflation. Recent research by Mintel, published in October, indicates that 64% of UK consumers with children aged four and under are feeling the impact of rising food and drink prices. To address this concern, it is suggested that formulas emphasizing essential nutrients for babies at an affordable price point could alleviate parental concerns about the escalating costs of infant milk formula.

Despite these challenges, the global HMO market is on the rise. Its value has surged from US $125.9 million in 2020 to a projected $332.6 million by 2028, as reported by Allied Market Research. With this market expansion, some companies are exploring opportunities beyond infant nutrition. For instance, the US-based startup Layer Origin Nutrition recognized the potential benefits of HMOs for products targeting adults and launched seven HMO-based products in 2021. This trend signals a growing inclination towards diversifying the use of HMOs beyond infant nutrition.

The industry's ongoing challenge is to strike a delicate balance: crafting products that harness the potential benefits of HMOs while ensuring they remain affordable and accessible to a broader consumer base.