How to choose high-quality baby food without palm oil and GMOs. Palm oil free infant formula

Breast milk is the most valuable and healthy food for babies, especially in the first six months of life. But not always a nursing mother is 100% able to provide a newborn with breast milk. Then milk formulas come to the rescue. The modern market offers various mixtures for different types of newborns. It is important to choose the right brand to ensure the full and healthy development of the child. First of all, consider what types of food for newborns are produced today.

Types of milk formulas

By consistency
Dry	A common dry food that needs to be diluted with water. Easy to store, transport and dispense. Wide selection and longer shelf life.
Liquid	Less common food, which occupies only 10% of the market. It is a ready-made mixture in a Tetra Pak package, which only needs to be heated. Quick and easy preparation, however, this product is harder to find and has a short shelf life.
Composition
adapted to cow's milk	Infant formula based on cow's milk whey, as close as possible to the composition of breast milk. Nutritious and easy nutrition that is quickly absorbed, ideal for newborns.
adapted to goat milk	This food is suitable for babies who are allergic to cow protein. The composition on goat's milk is distinguished by high nutritional value.
Partially adapted	They are close in structure to breast milk, but include not only lactose (like conventional adapted infant formulas), but also sucrose.
Subsequent	Suitable for babies from six months and up. The product is made from dried whole cow's milk with sucrose and starch without whey content.
Unadapted (casein)	Food based on casein (cow's milk protein), suitable for children older than six months.
According to the age
0 (“pre”/”pre”)	For newborns and premature babies, babies with small weight
1	For newborns up to six months
2	For children 6-12 months
3	For babies over one year old

Therapeutic and specialized mixtures

Food allergies make finding the right food for your baby difficult. Manufacturers offer hypoallergenic mixtures for newborns, which reduce the risk of a negative reaction. In addition, today they produce special nutrition for premature babies who require special attention and diet. We offer a list of therapeutic and specialized mixtures.

• Milk formulas for premature babies contain a large amount of vitamins and whey protein. They have a high energy value;
• Fermented milk mixtures should be chosen for problems in digestion. Such nutrition is prescribed if the child has severe and frequent colic, constipation or dysbacteriosis, profuse regurgitation or vomiting. The composition of the product includes bifidobacteria and lactic acid bacteria, which normalize the work of the stomach;
• Hypoallergenic formulas for newborns can be chosen for children with an increased risk of allergy to lactose, cow protein and other components. It is a product based on goat milk or partially hydrolyzed cow protein. On the packages of such food, you will find the abbreviation “ON” or “GA”;
• Soy protein formulas are given to children with bovine protein allergy over the age of 6 months. Please note that such food is quite difficult to digest and has low nutritional value. It is not recommended for babies with stomach problems;
• Iron-rich formulas are suitable for children over 4 months of age. Such nutrition should be chosen if the child has an iron deficiency and a low hemoglobin in the blood.
• Lactose-free formulas should be chosen for children with lactose intolerance and lactose intolerance. Also, such nutrition is recommended for acute intestinal failure and a pronounced food allergy to cow protein, when the usual hypoallergenic composition is not suitable;
• Anti-reflux mixtures containing gum can be chosen for a child with frequent constipation and spitting up. Gum is a plant polysaccharide that swells in the stomach, which reduces regurgitation and relieves constipation. Such a product contains the designation “AP” or “AR” on the packaging.

How to choose the right formula for a newborn

1. For newborns, you need to choose only an adapted composition in cow or goat milk, since they are most similar to the composition of breast milk and are absorbed better than other types;
2. If the baby is mixed-fed (he receives both mixtures and mother's milk), you need to choose only highly adapted formulations. How to properly organize breastfeeding and which mixture is better for mixed feeding, read;
3. When choosing, carefully study the composition, expiration date and integrity of the package;
4. Choose formulations that do not contain palm or canola oil. Food should contain a large amount of minerals and vitamins. Well, if the composition includes carnitine, linoleic acid and taurine. These useful elements are involved in the material exchange and the formation of the internal organs of the child;
5. Rely on age restrictions. It is better to start feeding a newborn with a mixture with indicators “0” or “Pre” (“Pre”) with normal development, no allergies and other problems - you can choose food “1”. The transition to another level cannot be carried out earlier than after 6 months!;
6. Monitor the well-being of the child when feeding this or that mixture. Remember that food may not be suitable for the baby and cause a negative reaction. If you have allergies, contact your pediatrician and replace the mixture;
7. The mixture is not suitable for a baby if he is not gaining weight, sleeps restlessly and wakes up often, feels unwell, often cries and is naughty during, before or after feeding.

Which formula for a newborn to choose

To determine which mixture is best and choose the right nutrition, read the reviews of mothers and doctors, view the nutrition rating on specialized sites. We offer a list of the most popular brands.

baby suitable for healthy babies without problems in health and development. This is an affordable and inexpensive mixture of a Russian manufacturer that has maintained quality standards for over 40 years. Reviews say that babies like Baby, but often, due to the high sugar content, it provokes colic and skin rashes.

Nutrilon- mixtures for newborns with a special composition that normalizes the intestinal microflora, stabilizes the stool and reduces colic. Reviews say that the Dutch product has a positive effect on the health and well-being of the child, but does not mix well and may not be to the taste of children. In addition, it is one of the most expensive mixtures.

Nan- another Dutch brand with the content of vitamins and minerals in the required amount, as well as Denta pro supplements. This element has a positive effect on the formation and health of teeth, prevents caries and strengthens the gums. However, reviews of mothers do not recommend choosing this product, since palm oil is included in the composition. Often the manufacturer does not indicate at all which oil is added.

hipp is an eco-friendly and high-quality mixture of co-production of Austria and Germany, which includes dietary fiber and starch, pre- and probiotics. Among the shortcomings, the appearance of constipation in infants and insufficient iodine content can be distinguished. In addition, manufacturers do not indicate which oil is used. Among the advantages, we note a safe composition and a rare negative reaction.

Humana- German mixture, the composition of which is as close as possible to breast milk. Promotes mental development and improves memory. Reviews say that Humana has no particular flaws. But be prepared for the fact that the food is not cheap.

BelLact- Belarusian brand at an affordable price with an environmentally friendly and proven composition. However, reviews indicate that in newborns and children under one year old, when feeding with this mixture, constipation and allergies often occur.

Agusha- not the best, but affordable mix at a low price. Reviews recommend choosing such a diet if the baby eats Agusha well and does not feel discomfort. Be careful, as it foams a lot and often causes colic in the baby.

Friso- a safe and environmentally friendly mixture for mixed feeding. However, pediatricians do not recommend such a product due to the lack of iron, potassium and calcium. In addition, vitamin C in the composition is 1.5 times more than the norm! Parents' reviews say that particles of overdried milk are sometimes found in the mixture, and it does not mix well.

Nestogen- Swiss nutrition for mixed feeding of healthy babies. It mixes well and does not foam, but there are often problems with stools and constipation, and allergies occur.

Similac- food from Denmark with a good composition, which includes skim milk, pre- and probiotics, a complex of vitamins and minerals. Does not contain palm oil. Of the shortcomings, an insufficient amount of phosphorus and whey protein was noted. It mixes well, rarely causes allergies, but often provokes constipation.

MD mil "Goat"- baby food based on goat's milk is prescribed for babies with an allergy to cow protein and atopic dermatitis. The cost of such mixtures is much higher than usual, but at the same time it is hypoallergenic and is better absorbed by the newborn. Produced in Spain.

Nanny- a natural mixture with a balanced composition from New Zealand. Contains useful marine fish fat, but lacks iodine and taurine. The goat milk product is suitable for both healthy newborns and children with allergies or a tendency to negative reactions to food.

The rating of many Russian sites about feeding newborns and children up to a year is headed by the Malyutka mixture. But remember about the individual development of each child. Therefore, which mixture is best suited is determined individually.

Rules for preparing the mixture and feeding the baby

Before cooking, carefully read the instructions on the package and follow the scheme for diluting the dry powder in water. Violation of the ratio of water and powder will lead to indigestion in a child! Use only clean bottled or boiled water.

You need to feed your baby from a sterilized bottle. After sterilization, purified water is poured into the bottle at a temperature of 45-50 degrees, then the mixture is poured and thoroughly shaken until the lumps dissolve. The temperature of the contents before feeding should be no higher than 38 degrees.

Palm oil is one of the cheapest vegetable oils, and therefore it is widely used in the food industry. In many cases, its use, such as in the confectionery industry, is justified, as it avoids the use of margarines containing harmful trans fatty acids. But we often hear more bad things about palm oil than good things. Unscrupulous dairy producers are to blame for this, which reduce the cost of it by adding milk fat substitutes based on palm oil. Formulas for baby food also belong to dairy products, so many parents have concerns about their possible targeted reduction in cost by adding palm oil. Like it or not, we have to figure it out.

Baby formula without palm oil

For those parents who fundamentally do not want to see palm oil in their child's diet, baby formulas without palm oil have been created - , . Not so long ago in products 1,2,3,4 also stopped adding palm oil. These mixtures contain a combination of other vegetable oils. For example, Similak has soy, safflower and coconut oil. However, the refusal to use palm oil in them does not solve the main problem - the fat of these mixtures, like the fat of mixtures containing palm oil, is still very different from the fat of breast milk. In addition, "Similac" and "NANNIE" are characterized by an equal ratio of casein and whey proteins, which does not make them highly adapted, since whey proteins prevail over casein in human milk. So is there a way out of this situation today? It turns out there is, but first things first.

Pictures of blends without palm oil

Nanny Similac Premium
Nestojen NAS

Where does palm oil come from

Palm oil is obtained by pressing the pulp of the fruit of the oil palm tree, which is most widely distributed in Malaysia and Indonesia. In terms of oil content in the pulp, this plant is a champion among oilseeds, which explains its low price and widespread use.

Composition and properties of palm oil

Palm oil has a semi-solid texture with a pleasant sweetish taste and smell. Unrefined palm oil contains a large amount of carotenoids, which give it a peculiar bright orange color. To remove unwanted impurities, palm oil is subjected to purification (refining), during which its color, smell and taste disappear. It is this, as they say, impersonal oil, and is used in industry.
Palmitic (44-45%) and oleic acid (39-40%) are the main fatty acids in its composition, linoleic acid is only 10-11%. This makes palm oil fairly resistant to oxidation. The melting point of palm oil varies widely, mainly from 33ºC to 39ºC.
To obtain palm oil with desired properties, its fractionation is used, which results in the separation of the oil into fractions - liquid (palm olein) and solid (palm stearin). When palm olein is re-fractionated, "super" olein is obtained.

Fractionation of palm oil yields liquid palm olein and solid palm stearin.

A feature of the chemical composition of olein and "super" olein of palm oil is a decrease in the proportion of palmitic acid and an increase in the amount of unsaturated fatty acids (oleic, linoleic and linolenic), which leads to a decrease in the melting point to 19ºС ("super" olein) - 24ºС (olein).
Most of any oil or fat is made up of triglyceride molecules, which are glycerol residues with three fatty acids attached. In appearance, they resemble the letter "Sh". In the triglyceride composition of palm olein, there is a decrease in the proportion of molecules in which palmitic acid occupies positions 1,3 and an increase in the proportion of triglycerides with palmitic acid in position 2.

Why is palm oil added to infant formula?

Many mothers, for various reasons, are unable to breastfeed their child and use infant formula to replace it, the composition of which is constantly being improved. In order for the formula to fully meet the needs of the child for fats, their composition should be the same or as close as possible to the fat of breast milk. Here we mean not only the chemical composition of fat (fatty acids), but also its spatial structure (triglycerides). Since each fat, including breast milk fat, is unique, this is difficult to achieve. The milk fat of cow's milk, which is the raw material for the manufacture of infant formula, differs in composition from breast milk fat, and therefore needs to be adjusted. It is carried out by introducing into the mixture of permitted vegetable fats or their fractions and specially prepared fish oil.

Important! In order for the fatty component of the mixture to contain the same fatty acids as breast milk fat, vegetable oils of various origins and fish oil are added to it.

Among the permitted vegetable oils is palm oil, which belongs to the so-called palmitic group of oils. This group consists of cocoa butter, cottonseed and palm oil. They contain the maximum amount of palmitic acid, which is especially abundant in human milk. However, only palm oil is distinguished by its maximum content. In addition, cottonseed oil is prohibited for use in baby food by current technical regulations due to the content of fatty acids that can adversely affect the growth and development of children. Thus, for palmitic acid balancing among all oils, palm oil remains the only most suitable and relatively safe option.

Important! Palm oil is the vegetable oil that contains the highest amount of palmitic acid in its composition and is approved by the Nutrition Institute as a source of palmitic acid in infant formulas.

Is Palm Oil Harmful?

Most often, under the name "palm oil" on the packaging, it is not palm oil itself that is hidden, but its fractions - palm olein and "super" olein. Their quantitative chemical composition, melting point and spatial structure of molecules (triglycerides) differ significantly from the original product. In addition to the high content of palmitic acid, palm oil is highly resistant to oxidation, during which far from the most useful, and even unhealthy, substances are formed. Due to this property, it compares favorably among all vegetable oils and, from this point of view, is safer than, for example, the same olive or sunflower oil.

Important! In infant formulas, not whole palm oil is most often used, but its fractions - palm olein and "super" olein.

Opponents of palm oil in baby food often use scientific studies that have shown the negative role of palmitic acid, which is located in the triglycerides of palm oil in positions 1 and 3. In the gastrointestinal tract, this fat molecule is exposed to the enzyme lipase, which is able to split fatty acids from triglyceride only in positions 1 and 3. As a result, free palmitic acid, binding with calcium, forms an insoluble calcium soap, which is not absorbed by the body and is excreted, thereby interfering with the absorption of this element. At the same time, babies develop constipation, and the bones grow slowly and become more fragile.

However, in all vegetable oils, and not just in palm oil, palmitic acid occupies just such a “harmful” position, while in breast milk fat it is predominantly characterized by position 2. Palm oil contains a particularly large amount of palmitic acid, so the proportion of fat molecules with this fatty acid is especially high.

Important! Palmitic acid of all vegetable oils, and not just palm oil, is predominantly in a position different from its position in the fat of human milk and, therefore, is capable of binding calcium after cleavage from the fat molecule.

The addition of palm olein (even better “super” olein) rather than palm oil to the mixture can reduce the proportion of palm oil triglycerides in which palmitic acid occupies position 1,3, increasing the proportion of triglycerides in which palmitic acid is in position 2, and positions 1,3 are occupied by oleic acid. This increases the absorption of calcium and reduces the negative role of palmitic acid.

To date, the most correct solution to the existing problem is the use by some manufacturers of modified palm oil, in which palmitic acid occupies the central position - position 2 in triglycerides (β-palmitate) and allows calcium to be freely absorbed. In addition, the application of this technology not only to palm oil, but also to other vegetable oils, allows you to create fat as close as possible to breast milk fat in chemical composition and in the structure of its molecules. An example is Matern's infant formula, which contains a unique composition of several modified vegetable oils. Unfortunately, the mixture is not very common due to its high cost. But there are cheaper analogues using similar technology:

• Nutrilon Comfort 1;
• Heinz Infanta Blend 1;
• Kabrita Gold 1;
• Hipp comfort;
• Celia anticolic;
• Humana anticolic.

Important! The use of β-palmitate makes it possible to bring the fat of infant formula closer in terms of the content of palmitic acid to the fatty acid composition of human milk, while solving the problem of calcium absorption, which occurs when using palm oil.

Dr. Komarovsky about palm oil

Dr. Komarovsky also does not share the parents' fear of palm oil. He recommends using any formula when the mother does not have breast milk. An artificial mixture, even if it contains palm oil, will in any case be much more beneficial for a newborn than natural cow's milk. Infant formulas, as well as natural women's milk, cannot be completely absorbed by the children's body, therefore, even breastfed children experience the same problems as artificial children.

Infant formula and GMOs

An equally topical issue for parents is the use of GMOs in infant formula. GMOs are genetically modified organisms (plants, animals, microorganisms) whose DNA contains the genes of other organisms that can endow them with new useful properties (for example, drought resistance, resistance to diseases, etc.), which are processed into GMI - genetically modified Ingredients. The safety of eating GM foods has not yet been proven, but according to many experts, these products are especially dangerous for children: they increase the risk of allergies, food poisoning, cause resistance to antibiotics, etc. That is why the technical regulation of the customs union TR CU 021/2011 " On Food Safety” the use of GMOs in the production of baby food and products for pregnant and lactating women is not allowed.

Important! The Technical Regulations of the Customs Union TR TS 021/2011 "On Food Safety" do not allow the use of GMOs in the production of baby food and products for pregnant and lactating women.

But, as in many cases, there is one "but". The GMO content of 0.9% or less is acceptable as an accidental or technically irremovable impurity and is not a basis for classifying such products as those produced in violation of the requirements of the technical regulation.

According to the latest research (December 2015) of five product samples (Nestle NAN 1 Premium, Agusha-1, Nutrilak Soya 1, Malyutka-1, Similac Premium 1), conducted National Association for Genetic Safety (NAGB) infant formula manufacturers comply with this ban. This also applies to Nestle, the manufacturer of the NAN mixture, which was previously seen using GMI.

In contact with

Which mixture is best for a newborn

The best mixture for newborns in composition

All milk mixtures can be conditionally divided into two large groups: those made on the basis of goat's milk and those made on the basis of cow's milk. Experts believe that goat milk formulas are better suited for a baby, since its proteins are more similar to breast milk proteins.

The best food for a newborn is adapted milk formulas. They are the most suitable for replacing breast milk, since they are completely absorbed by the baby's body. But it is advisable to choose milk formulas for a newborn without palm oil. The use of this oil in large quantities is fraught with a weakening of the growth of the child, poor formation of the skeletal system and the occurrence of problems with the teeth.

Modern manufacturers offer milk formulas without sugar, but enriched with various minerals and vitamins necessary for the proper development of the child. In addition, prebiotics and probiotics are added to the composition of the mixtures. Adapted milk formulas with prebiotics help create an environment for “good” microflora in the baby’s digestive system, and mixtures with probiotics are responsible for the health of the organs involved in digestion. Research shows that the presence of pre- and probiotics in infant formula helps reduce the risk of food allergies and even diseases like asthma.

What is the best infant formula for newborns by age

Children's bodies at different ages have different nutritional needs. And this is a completely natural process. After all, the composition of breast milk changes with the growth of the baby. Therefore, the formula of milk formula also depends on the age of the child. It is believed that mixtures for an older child should be more satisfying and high-calorie than for a newborn. In their composition, the amount of non-adapted cow's milk proteins, as well as the content of minerals and vitamins, increases, since the need of the child's body for these substances increases.

For each age group, manufacturers offer a separate product, created taking into account the needs of the child's body at a certain age. For children of the first six months of life, the so-called "initial" or milk mixtures of the first stage are intended. The composition of the “follow-up” mixtures is designed to meet the needs of older babies. Adapted milk formulas from 0 to 12 months can be used throughout the first year of a newborn's life.

Which mixture is better to choose for a newborn: dairy and sour-milk formulations

Baby formulas without preservatives are very popular with mothers today, due to their low cost and composition, which includes all the useful ingredients that contribute to the active development of the little one. These mixtures can be fed to both infants and older children. Powdered fermented milk mixture Malyutka normalizes the composition of the intestinal microflora, improves digestion, strengthens the child's immune system, and reduces the risk of intestinal infections.

Our review includes the following manufacturers:

• Abbott is a diversified international company engaged in the production of a wide range of products, including baby food. It produces products that are necessary for optimal development, growth and health of a person at all stages of his life;
• BIBIKOL- this company has been presenting unique products on the baby food market for almost two decades, which are made on the basis of goat's milk;
• Nestle is a company that has been producing infant formula for many years. Every year its products are improved, so completely new mixtures appear on the market, designed for certain categories of children and taking into account their needs;
• Kabrita- under this brand, the most modern mixtures for children based on goat's milk are produced. They combine all the benefits of goat milk and modern ingredients for the development, growth, protection and nutrition of babies;
• Nutricia is a Dutch commercial organization specializing in scientific research in the field of healthy nutrition and the production of foods with special needs. It is now part of the Danone group of food companies.

The Best Palm Oil Free Infant Formulas

Similac Milk Formula (Abbott) Free of Palm Oil and Sugar

Milk formula Similac (Abbott) in its composition as close as possible to mother's milk and contains nutrients for the full development of the child. First of all, this is the unique IQ Intelli-Pro complex, which includes docosahexaenoic (DHA) and arachidonic (ARA) acids, which are present in breast milk and ensure the proper development of the brain and vision. Prebiotics help the gut form its own healthy microflora and soft stools, and probiotics (live bifidobacteria) support this microflora.

The composition of the mixture also includes substances indispensable for the healthy development of the child's body, such as calcium, iron, magnesium, ascorbic and folic acids, riboflavin, lactose, coconut, soybean and sunflower oils, vitamins B12, D3, K1 and other vitamins and minerals, with through which the child will grow and develop properly. Price - from 900 rubles for 900 g.

Pros:

• live bifidobacteria have a beneficial effect on the intestinal microflora of the child;
• prebiotics help to normalize the stool and microflora, reduce colic and the frequency of regurgitation;
• the presence of an antioxidant such as lutein in the mixture is very important for eye health. Lutein is not produced in the body, so you can get it only with food;
• the fatty acids DHA and ARA (Omega-3 and Omega-6) included in the mixture help the proper development of the brain;
• the absence of palm oil in the composition provides the child with healthy and strong bones and teeth in the future.

No significant cons were found.

BIBIKOL Nanny 1 mix with goat milk

BIBIKOL Nanny 1 is an adapted milk dry formula for artificial feeding of children from the first days of birth to six months. It is made from whole goat milk from New Zealand goats. New Zealand is one of the most environmentally friendly countries. That is why goat milk is so natural and rich in various nutrients, and infant formulas made on its basis contain all the components necessary for the full development and growth of the baby.

Nanny 1 formula is recommended for feeding healthy babies or those who have intolerance to cow's milk proteins and soy. Goat milk proteins contain lower amounts of beta-lactoglobulin and alpha-S1-casein compared to cow's milk, so they are better absorbed by the child's body. In addition, goat milk contains biologically active components such as phospholipids, nucleotides and oligosaccharides, which have a positive effect on the immune system of children.

Minerals, vitamins and omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids contribute to the proper development of the brain and organs of vision. The Nanny 1 mixture also contains a complex of plant prebiotics that normalize digestion.

Pros:

• the mixture does not contain sucrose, glucose, demineralized whey, modified proteins, dyes and flavors;
• all components of the mixture are made from natural products of plant origin with an unchanged gene structure;
• the possibility of feeding children who are at risk of developing food allergies or intolerance to cow's milk proteins.

Minuses:

• low dissolution rate at the recommended water temperature of 35-40 degrees. This may make the mother want to use hotter water, but in this case vitamins will be lost;
• somewhat overpriced.

Infant formula NAN (Nestle) 1 Optipro

The mixture NAN (Nestle) 1 Optipro is intended for feeding healthy babies from their very birth, if breastfeeding is not possible. It is made from high quality raw materials, free of genetically modified ingredients, flavors, colors and preservatives. NAN (Nestle) 1 Optipro is a milk formula that contains all the nutrients necessary for the harmonious mental and physiological development of a child.

Optipro is a quality and quantity optimized protein complex found exclusively in NAN blends. The baby, thanks to him, receives exactly the amount of protein that is necessary for his proper growth and development. Price - from 700 rubles for 400 g.

Pros:

• the product does not contain palm oil, dyes, preservatives, flavors, genetically modified substances;
• optimized protein complex;
• the presence of bifidobacteria BL, which help to normalize intestinal motility and increase the ability of the child's body to fight various infections;
• omega-3 fatty acids present in the mixture contribute to the proper formation of the brain and organs of vision;
• the necessary amount of vitamins and minerals for the development of the child at this stage.

Among the minuses can be noted the higher cost compared to domestic blends.

The best adapted mixtures for newborns

Milk formula BIBIKOL Nanny Classic

BIBIKOL Nanny Classic milk formula can be used for artificial feeding of healthy children, as well as those who are at risk of developing an allergy to cow's milk protein. It is made from whole milk from New Zealand goats., which is much closer in protein structure to mother's milk than cow's.

The composition of the mixture contains all the nutritional components that are necessary for the full development and growth of the child. These are goat milk proteins, which, compared to cow's milk, contain less alpha-S1-casein and beta-lactoglobulin, as well as high-quality vegetable oils, natural milk fat, as well as nucleotides, phospholipids, oligosaccharides, which are naturally present in goat milk .

Nanny Classic blend is enriched with additional fatty acids DHA and ARA (Omega-3 and Omega-6), which are especially important for the development of the brain and organs of vision of the child. No sweeteners are added to this mixture. The only carbohydrate present in Nanny Classic is lactose, which is a natural milk sugar and helps maintain a healthy intestinal microflora. Price - from 1200 rubles for 400 g.

Pros:

• naturalness. The mixture is made on the basis of natural goat's milk and has a mild creamy taste;
• ecological cleanliness;
• the possibility of using for feeding children suffering from intolerance to cow's milk and at risk of developing food allergies.

Minuses:

• low dissolution rate;
• high price.

Kabrita 1 GOLD Infant Formula with Prebiotics

Based on goat's milk, Kabrita 1 GOLD contains nutrients that are essential for the proper mental and physiological development of the child, as well as for strengthening his immunity. Goat milk, unlike cow milk, has a higher degree of digestibility, therefore, mixtures based on it can be a godsend for those parents whose babies suffer from intolerance to cow's milk proteins. This problem is quite common and can cause difficult digestion, skin problems and complaints related to the respiratory system.

Kabrita 1 GOLD blend also features a unique combination of prebiotics and probiotics. Prebiotics (fructooligosaccharides and galactooligosaccharides) in combination with BB-12 bifidobacteria (live probiotics) ensure proper digestion, strengthen the child's immune system and contribute to the development of the protective functions of the child's body. The presence of arachidonic (ARA), docosahexaenoic (DHA), linoleic and linolenic fatty acids in the mixture ensures the proper development of the child's brain. Price - from 1800 rubles for 800 g.

Pros:

• the mixture in terms of the ratio of casein and whey proteins is as close as possible to mother's milk;
• the optimal ratio of prebiotics and probiotics improves the digestion of the child;
• the mixture has a natural sweetness. It is made without the addition of fructose, glucose, maltodexin, crystalline sugar;
• the mixture does not contain soy lecithin, flavors, flavor enhancers and preservatives.

Minuses:

• contains palm oil;
• high price.

Fermented milk mixtures for newborns Malyutka

Dry fermented milk mixture Malyutka (Nutricia) 1

Sour-milk products significantly improve digestion, but they are quite complex food for the delicate tummy of a newborn baby. Nutricia created Baby 1 - specially adapted fermented milk formula for infants, which combines the benefits of sour-milk products and good nutrition. The secret behind the formula of this blend lies in the special manufacturing process of Lactofidus, using a special starter culture to support natural digestion and promote tummy health.

The mixture also contains the essential amino acid L-tryptophan, which is used by the brain to produce serotonin, which is called the good mood hormone, as well as the free sulfonic acid taurine, which is necessary for the formation of brain tissues and has an anticonvulsant effect. The mixture contains a vitamin complex, contributing to the harmonious physiological and mental development of the little man.

Fermented milk formula Malyutka 1 can be used to feed healthy babies with a sensitive digestive system (with a restless tummy, a tendency to colic) and babies with reduced appetite, including during the period of prevention after an intestinal infection. The mixture can be used as a main food or combined with breast milk.

Pros:

• a balanced composition of the mixture that provides the infant with good nutrition;
• the presence in the composition of the mixture of milk demineralized whey, as adapted as possible to the characteristics and needs of the body of the newborn;
• prebiotics that improve bowel function and reduce the manifestations of dysbacteriosis;
• the presence of a variety of vitamins, minerals, trace elements and amino acids.

Minuses:

• the presence of palm oil in the mixture. The possibility of its significant harm has not been proven, but it is known that it is digested rather hard;
• the presence of soy lecithin. There is an opinion among consumers that genetically modified soybeans can be used in its production.

Sour-milk baby formula Malyutka (Nutricia) 2

Formula Malyutka (Nutricia) 2 is recommended for feeding children over six months of age. when breastfeeding is not possible. The composition of the mixture contains the whole range of useful elements and vitamins that ensure normal digestion and maintain the immunity of the crumbs.

Fermented milk formula Malyutka 2 is produced according to a special technology using a special starter culture that promotes the health of the baby's tummy and supports natural digestion. It is a completely balanced product, so it can be used as a main food. A mixture of Malyutka 2, unlike Malyutka 1, contains "smart iron" - the optimal combination of the amount of iron, zinc and vitamin C. This ensures better absorption of iron, which is especially important for the prevention of iron deficiency. Price - from 330 rubles for 350 g.

Pros:

• provides the child with a balanced diet;
• nutrients, dietary fiber, vitamins and minerals are selected taking into account the age of a six-month-old child, therefore they ensure healthy growth and development;

You have a healthy and strong baby. It is impossible to describe in words the happiness of the parents of a newborn! And now the next stage in the life of a mother begins, no less responsible - feeding the baby. The most useful and tasty for the little one, of course, is mother's milk. However, it often happens that the mother loses it. There are many reasons for this, but our discussion today is not about that.

Today we will talk about artificial feeding and what kind of baby formulas are without palm oil and why it is harmful to babies.

Why is palm oil added to infant formula?

The properties of breastfeeding mother's milk are truly unique. It consists of many trace elements that contribute to the healthy development of the child, his growth and weight gain. Among these elements are vitamins, minerals and so-called fatty acids. There are more than a dozen names of these acids, but there is one - palmitic or, as it is also called, hexadecanoic, which makes up 25% of all fats in breast milk.

Let's make a reservation right away that fats are a very important element for the harmonious development of a child. After all, it is not only an energy resource for the baby's body, but also a building material for cells. So, by the age of two, 60% of the dry weight of the baby's brain is fat. But it's all about breast milk. But what to give to children whose mothers do not have milk?

For them, special artificial milk mixtures have been developed. And here the main task of manufacturers is to try to bring the quality of artificial nutrition closer to mother's milk. To this end, fats, both vegetable and dairy, are added to the feeding mixture. In their composition, you can also see oil from the vegetable fruits of the oil palm, known to us as palm oil. It compares favorably with other vegetable fats in its elevated levels of hexadecanoic acid.

Why is palm oil free formula safer for babies?

Probably, it will not be a discovery if we say that in recent years, palm oil has often been accused of harming human health. There are constant discussions about this on the pages of newspapers, magazines, and, of course, on TV. It's gotten to the point where just one mention of palm oil on a product's packaging makes customers shudder, and such a product becomes of little interest to consumers. Especially when it comes to infant formula for feeding.

Is this true or a myth launched by competitors? Or is it still better, out of harm's way, to make an extra circle around the city, but find for your beloved child a baby milk formula without palm vegetable oil, as well as without GMOs? Let's figure it out.

We briefly tried to explain the reason for the use of palm oil in baby food. Now let's talk about its harm. The main harm caused by vegetable palm oil is to provoke the loss of calcium in the child's body. The researchers compared that when feeding with mixtures containing palm oil, calcium absorption is worse by 10-20%. This is explained by the structure of the fat molecule of palm vegetable oil. Hexadecanic acid in it is located on the side and is easily split off, combining with calcium. This leads to the formation of calcium salts, which contributes to constipation in a child.

In the milk of a nursing mother, palmitic acid is in the central position of the fat molecule, and therefore does not harm. Naturally, manufacturers of baby food are trying to reduce the negative effect, looking for new formulas. Recently, a so-called beta-palmitate has been developed, where hexadecanoic acid is located similarly to the milk of a nursing mother.

To answer the question of which baby formula without palm oil is best, consider a list of the most popular products.

List and characteristics of popular products

The product's name	Country of Origin	Advantages	Flaws
			Contains soy lecithin.
	Switzerland	Contains prebiotics to improve digestion.	Contains soy lecithin and skimmed milk powder.
	New Zealand	Contains encapsulated fish oil.
Nutrilon Pronutra 1	Netherlands	Contains prebiotics to naturally boost immunity.	Contains beta palmitate.
		Contains elements that stimulate digestion.	Contains soy lecithin and beta palmitate.
	Netherlands	The composition contains omega acids, bifidobacteria.	Contains structured vegetable oil.

In conclusion, we once again want to remind you of the importance of the best nutrition for the baby in the first six months after birth, when the foundations for its further development are laid. That is why the price of food should not be decisive when buying. The main thing is its quality. If the infant formula is free of palm oil and GMOs, then you can be calm about the health of your baby.

Recently, there has been a heated debate about the role of palm oil in baby nutrition. Palm Oil Free Infant Formula - the subject of dispute between baby food manufacturers, pediatricians and caring mothers. Let's try to justify the addition of palm oil to the composition of infant formula.

It is an undeniable fact: mother's milk remains the ideal food for babies in all plans. For those who are left without it, it remains to eat specialized mixtures. Their production technologies are constantly being upgraded with only one goal - to reproduce breast milk as accurately as possible. The main raw material for the production of its substitutes is cow's milk, less often goat's milk. For children with lactase deficiency, soy or almonds are used as a base component. Cow's milk is significantly different in composition from women's milk, so it is adapted - artificially approximated in many ways. Consider the mechanism of adaptation of the fat component, because it is for this purpose that palm oil is added to the composition of infant formulas.

Correction of the fat component:

In breast and cow's milk, the quantitative composition of fats is approximately the same, but their chemical structure is significantly different. 50% of human milk lipids are unsaturated fatty acids: myristic, palmitic, oleic, linoleic, linolenic and arachidonic. They have high biological activity, are not synthesized in the human body, but are indispensable in the diet. The manufacturer must not only solve the issue of their content in the mixture in a physiological ratio, but also perform a practical task: to ensure the protection of the product from oxidation and good solubility. This significantly affects the quality and tolerability.

In order for a child to grow and develop normally on mixed or artificial feeding, the fat component of the milk mixture must provide:

The optimal ratio of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids (from 1:5 to 1:15)
Proper distribution of saturated and unsaturated fatty acids
Sufficient amount of unsaturated acids
The necessary ratio between the main antioxidant vitamin E and unsaturated fatty acids for protection against lipid peroxidation.

To this end, milk fat is partially or completely replaced by a combination of vegetable oils. In isolation, each of them cannot meet stringent requirements. For better absorption, lecithin, mono- and diglycerides are introduced into the mixture. Milk formula without palm oil: how justified is its use?

Palmitic acid makes up one-fourth of the fat in breast milk. Its main natural source is the oil of the oil palm fruit (Elaeis guineensis). This substance is widely used in food production due to its low cost, valuable components and resistance to oxidation. It contains the following set of fatty acids:

palmitic - 45%
oleic - 39%
linoleic - from 4 to 13%
stearic - about 6%
myristic - about 1%.

Human milk contains a substance called beta palmitate. In it, palmitic acid is in the second position of glycerol (beta position). This is how it is located in tropical palm oil - the only natural source of this substance. As you can see, if you use a formula for a newborn without palm oil, in which it is replaced by other vegetable fats, you can deprive it of physiological essential substances.

In addition, the production uses the liquid component of palm oil - palmitic olein, which concentrates the most useful substances - fatty acids, carotene, antioxidants. Do you still prefer palm oil-free infant formula over others? Well, let's give more arguments.

... and more about palm oil:

Phospholipids included in its composition, the body uses to "build" nerve cells. Vitamins A, E, linoleic acid enhance immune defense, affect the formation of teeth and bones. The presence of coenzyme Q10, one of the main catalysts for metabolic processes, makes palm oil unique in its composition.

Saturated acids in palm oil are predominantly short chain. This contributes to the formation of normal intestinal microflora. Milk formula without palm oil lacks the advantage of having tocotrienol, a substance that helps lower blood cholesterol, excessive formation of phagocytes, prevents the formation of blood clots, and improves immunity.
Palm oil-free, non-gmo infant formula is another subject of discussion. A number of documents regulate the quantitative and qualitative composition, mandatory ingredients, sanitary and hygienic standards, etc. In Europe, this is Codex Alimentarius and Commission Directive 2006/141/EC. In accordance with them, the composition of milk mixtures should not include genetically modified raw materials, as well as sesame and linseed oil. They do not mention restrictions on palm oil.

Which mixture to choose?:

If our arguments still do not convince you, here is a list of baby formulas without palm oil. It is not so big: Similak (Abbott, USA) and Nenny (Bibikol, New Zealand).

Similac - one of the leaders in the production of baby food in the United States. Really high quality adapted milk formula without palm oil. Its absence has become the brand of the product. The fat component is adapted with high oleic sunflower, coconut and soybean oils. Note that in them palmitic acid is represented by a compound that is difficult to absorb. Similac bills itself as palm oil-free, non-gmo infant formula, although it contains soybean oil.  

The products meet all modern requirements for a highly adapted mixture, and the cost is appropriate. The range is represented by starter, follow-up and special mixtures (hypoallergenic, soy, anti-reflux, low-lactose).

Nanny - infant formula without palm oil in goat's milk. It is in many ways similar to women's: it has a similar amino acid and fat composition, is easier to digest, and contains less lactose. "Minus" - casein formula of the mixture. The proportion of whey proteins in it is only 20%. This fact indicates a low adaptation of the protein component of the mixture.
But they are represented by alpha- and gamma-lactalbumins, as in human milk, in contrast to beta-globulins in mixtures based on cow's milk. A special form of casein contributes to the formation of a delicate food clot and better digestion of proteins. The manufacturer indicated on the packaging that the mixture contains at least 46% goat milk. Raw materials valuable for dietary nutrition cause a high cost.

Conclusions:

Palm oil-free infant formula is more "bad" than "good". It contains palmitic acid, which is indispensable for the body, in the beta position, which is favorable for absorption. In other vegetable oils, its structure causes delayed absorption of Ca and fats. Given this fact, all adapted mixtures are enriched with calcium and vitamin D.
To adapt the fat component, the oleic liquid fraction is used, which contains all the most useful components of palm oil. Its harm is more of a marketing move by companies using other vegetable oils to replenish milk fat. But if you are a stubborn opponent of palm oil, then you can choose for your baby a modern adapted mixture without it - Similac. It is suitable for breastfeeding from birth. Nanny's mixture is low adapted in protein composition, so it is better to use it as an additional food.