Lipid analysis of breast milk and formula for preterm infants and the application and prospects of novel structural lipids – a comprehensive review

Abstract

Preterm infants, often characterized by lower birth weights and underdeveloped physiologies, necessitate specialized nutritional care. While breast milk stands as the ideal nutritional source, offering substantial energy through its fatty acid content to support the infants’ growth and developmental needs, its usage might not always be feasible. Fatty acids in breast milk are critical for the development of these infants. In scenarios where breast milk is not an option, formula feeding becomes a necessary alternative. Thus, a comprehensive understanding of the fatty acid profiles in both breast milk and formulas is crucial for addressing the distinct nutritional requirements of preterm infants. This paper aims to summarize the effects of lipid composition, structure, and positioning in breast milk and formula on the growth and development of preterm infants. Furthermore, it explores recent advancements in the use of novel structural lipids in formulas, laying the groundwork for future innovations in formula design specifically catered to the needs of preterm infants.

Keywords:

• Preterm infants
• breast milk
• formula
• long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acid
• novel structural lipids

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Additional information

Funding

This study was financed by the National Key Research and Development Program of China (2022YFF1100400).