Understanding the Fat in Formula

In the US, the infant formula industry standard is to replace the fat in milk with a plant-based oil blend that models the fatty acid composition found in breast milk. Read on to learn more about the importance of fat, Kabrita's premium fat blend with beta palmitate, and how it supports development.

Fat is a critical macronutrient for babies and young children. It is essential for the rapid growth phase following birth, to help in the delivery of fat soluble vitamins (such as A, D, E and K) and to support neurological development and brain function.

The Building Blocks of Fat

Fatty acids are the building blocks of fat. They vary in length and are classified as short, medium, or long chain. Fatty acids are also characterized as saturated or unsaturated. Essential fatty acids are required by the body and must be obtained through diet.

Fatty Acids in Breast Milk

It is estimated that breast milk delivers 40-50% of its energy as fat and is composed of a range of fatty acids. Although research has shown that the profile is relatively comparable across countries, it does show some variation – for example, DHA levels are highest in Japan, where fish is a dietary staple for many. While the composition of breast milk is dynamic in many ways, the fat content tends to be quite stable overall.

Breast milk predominantly contains medium and long chain saturated and unsaturated fatty acids. The following chart shows some of the fatty acids found in breast milk, 6 months postpartum. You can learn more about the fatty acid composition of breastmilk here. 

Plant-based Oil Blends

Plant-based oils contain a range of fatty acids and no one oil matches the fatty acid composition of breast milk. The following chart shows the fatty acid composition of plant-based oils commonly used in commercially made baby formula.