Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) is a long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acid essential for infant development, particularly for brain and vision health. Naturally found in breast milk, DHA supports cognitive and visual maturation during the critical early months of life. Since infants cannot synthesise DHA on their own, they must obtain it through breastfeeding or formula feeding.
The inclusion of DHA in infant formulas has been widely researched and discussed among regulatory bodies. In 2022, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) mandated that all infant formulas contain at least 20 mg of DHA per 100 kilocalories. This requirement aligns with the observed concentrations in human milk, aiming to support optimal infant development. However, this regulation does not specify a minimum amount of arachidonic acid (ARA), another crucial fatty acid found in breast milk.
Recent studies have underscored the importance of DHA supplementation for infants. For instance, research published in Frontiers in Neurology indicated that higher dietary DHA intake during the first year is significantly associated with improved cognitive function at 12 months and enhanced motor function in very low birth weight infants. Additionally, a systematic review in *Food Research International* stressed the need to optimise both DHA and ARA levels in infant formulas to better resemble the composition of breast milk, which is regarded as the gold standard of infant nutrition.
Despite the acknowledged benefits, DHA is not a required component in all infant formulas. In the United States, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) specifies minimum amounts for 30 essential nutrients in infant formulas, but DHA is not included in this list. As a result, there is considerable variability in DHA content across U.S.-made formulas, with some containing little to no DHA. This inconsistency raises concerns about whether infants are receiving adequate amounts of this crucial nutrient during a vital period of brain and visual development.
The discussion around including ARA alongside DHA in infant formulas continues. Some experts argue that both fatty acids should be present to mimic the natural composition of breast milk and to promote balanced development. For example, a study in Advances in Pediatrics highlighted the importance of maintaining an appropriate balance between DHA and ARA in formulas for term infants, reflecting ongoing debates about the optimal composition of these supplements.
Kendamil, a European-made infant formula, exceeds the EFSA's DHA requirements by providing 24 mg of DHA per 100 kilocalories. This commitment ensures that infants receive a level of DHA comparable to that found in breast milk, supporting healthy growth, vision, and brain development.
Recommending formulas that meet or exceed established DHA guidelines can significantly contribute to the cognitive and visual development of infants who are not breastfed. Continued research and adherence to nutritional standards are essential for providing infants with the best possible start in life.
Do you have any questions about Kendamil formulas or KendaKids? Get in touch with us at hcp.usa@kendamil.com
Sources
https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/neurology/articles/10.3389/fneur.2024.1295788/full
