New-born babies are always breastfed since breast milk has essential nutrients and is recommendable for the child’s health. However, baby formula feeding is also handy and some situations force parents to opt for it. Additionally, baby formulas are not best suitable option since it does not have all the essential nutrients that boost a child’s immunity. The baby formulas are also not easily digestible but can be useful as directed to provide dietary needs for kids. Furthermore, baby formulas are recommended for babies that need special nutritional requirements.
Infant formulas have been used in place of breast milk since it is manufactured with almost similar nutrients found in breast milk. The two main benefits of the infant formula are its ability to supply adequate protein content and promote quality normal physical growth in babies. The formula is however recommended for children with no medical conditions or dietary issues. Formulas are usually manufactured in high quality and moderated nutrition. An example is the Alula infant formula powder availed for babies in an advanced toddler formulation. WHO(World Health Organisation) has guidelines on the manufacture of baby formula and considers formulas made following the standards safe for babies consumption and is taken as a human breast milk substitute.
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Formula market
Infant formula is manufactured following specific national and international guidelines for quality. This makes baby formula for infants a global commodity and is always in demand. Some brands choose to include certain ingredients and innovative products. Under the food category, the infant formula is the fastest growing packaged food product making the company get more gains. Additionally, the baby formula is sold in various forms hence versatile options for its market.
Baby formula exists in three forms namely:
- Powder-the infant formula in powder form is mixed with water before feeding a baby. This is also the most affordable infant formula.
- Liquid-this form of infant formula is a concentrated liquid that needs to be mixed with some water before feeding a baby.
- Ready to feed- this form of infant formula is given to babies directly without mixing with water. The ready-to-feed is also the most expensive formula.
Classes of Infant Formula Products
The main classes of infant formula products exist in varying nutrition, taste, calories, and digestibility. They also vary in price depending on the category and type.
- Cow Milk-Based Formula
Most infant formulas are made from bovine milk. Bovine milk has higher amounts of protein, minerals, and fat compared to breast milk. The cow milk has to be skimmed and its concentration reduced so that its components are moderated to be almost similar to that of human breast milk. Additionally, the cow milk-based infant formula is enriched withiron, vegetable oils, minerals, and vitamins making it recommendable for complete baby health. The cow’s milk is a source of casein protein.
- Soy-based Formulas
Soy-based formulas are suitable especially for infants with colic, congenital lactase deficiency, and milk allergies.Soy products should however be fed to children above six months old. The soybean is used as an alternative source of protein other than cow milk casein.
- Amino Acid Formulas
The amino acid formulas are mostly recommendable to children who have severe allergies to consuming cow milk products. The formula can also be suitable for babies with difficulty in ingesting adequate amounts of hydrolysed formula. The main content in this formula is amino acids which are a form of protein without any peptides.
- Hypoallergenic Formulas
This category of infant formula products is for babies who are unable to consume and tolerate soy-based products or cow milk. They are known as protein hydrolase and exist in smaller sizes as compared to that in cow milk products or soy-based products.
Conclusion
Infant formulas are packaged, and manufactured food made and sold for feeding babies below 12 months old. The formula is usually administered to the baby via a bottle or a cup depending on its consistency and class. The formula exists in three forms which vary in price and method of preparation. Although formulas are manufactured to mimic human breast milk by including similar amounts of nutrients, they cannot resemble breast milk and its benefits. The formulas can also be made using various ingredients such as soy, cow milk, or even goat milk. Additionally, the formula can be enriched with other various beneficial ingredients during manufacture. Finally, the manufacture and production of the infant formula are done following strict guidelines which help to ensure that your baby’s health is not compromised.