There are various types of infant formula milk powders available on the market, most of which imitate the components of breast milk, with only minor differences in ingredients or content. The α-lactalbumin, which is rich in breast milk, accounts for 27% of the total protein, while this ratio is only 4% in cow’s milk. α-Lactalbumin not only provides an amino acid profile similar to that of breast milk, enhancing protein absorption efficiency but also reduces the total protein load, alleviating pressure on the infant’s kidneys. It also contains sleep-inducing neurotransmitters that are beneficial for the infant’s sleep and brain development. Therefore, choosing a formula milk powder that contains α-lactalbumin close to the level found in breast milk is more suitable for infants.
Compared to regular milk powder, formula milk powder has many adjustments in its composition: it reduces casein and increases whey protein; it replaces most saturated fatty acids with plant oils rich in unsaturated fatty acids; it adjusts lactose content to be closer to that of breast milk; it lowers mineral content to accommodate the kidney functions of infants; and it additionally adds trace elements, vitamins, and other essential components to make it closer to the characteristics of breast milk.
When purchasing milk powder, pay attention to the following points:
Do not be guided by advertisements, as the promotional effect does not represent the true quality and reputation of the product.
Carefully consider the actual production location and manufacturing process behind the brand, as the differences between original imports and repackaged products can be significant.
Take the baby’s acceptance into consideration; a specific milk powder may not taste good due to added ingredients, and the baby’s preference is key.
Price is not a standard for measuring the quality of milk powder, as a high price does not necessarily indicate high quality.
Selecting the right milk powder for your baby requires a comprehensive consideration of various factors to ensure the safety of the milk powder, which is crucial for the healthy growth of the baby.
