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Milk powder

Also known as: Dried milk, Powdered milk, Milk powder

Overview

Milk powder is dehydrated milk, primarily derived from cow's milk (Bos taurus), produced by removing water from liquid milk. This process retains most of the nutrients found in fresh milk, including proteins (casein and whey), lactose, fats, minerals, and vitamins, in a shelf-stable form. It is widely used as a nutritional supplement, particularly in infant formulas, fortified foods, and dietary supplements, to provide essential macronutrients and micronutrients. Its key characteristics include a long shelf life, ease of storage and transport, and high nutrient density. Milk powder is a cornerstone in infant nutrition, especially when breastfeeding is not possible, and is also utilized in clinical nutrition settings. Research on milk powder, particularly its use in infant nutrition, is extensive, with numerous randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and systematic reviews confirming its safety and efficacy.

Benefits

Milk powder offers several evidence-based benefits, particularly when used in infant formulas. Infant formulas based on cow's milk powder, especially when supplemented with prebiotics, significantly improve gut microbiota composition by increasing beneficial Bifidobacterium species without negatively impacting infant growth parameters like weight and length. Furthermore, supplementation with milk fat globule membrane (MFGM), a component of milk powder, has been associated with improved cognitive outcomes in infants. Fortified milk powders also enhance growth and nutritional status in young children, showing positive effects on weight gain and micronutrient status. For specific populations, infants (especially those not breastfed) benefit significantly from milk powder-based formulas enriched with prebiotics or MFGM. Preterm and very low birth weight infants show improved short-term growth when fed fortified milk powder formulas compared to standard formulas. Meta-analyses consistently report statistically significant improvements in gut microbiota diversity and cognitive scores with MFGM supplementation, with benefits on gut microbiota and growth parameters typically observed within the first six months of life.

How it works

Milk powder provides essential nutrients, including proteins, fats, and lactose, which are fundamental for growth and development. When used in supplemented formulas, prebiotic components promote the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, enhancing gut microbiota composition and supporting gut barrier function. The milk fat globule membrane (MFGM) within milk powder contains bioactive lipids and proteins that are crucial for brain development and cognitive function. These components are absorbed and can cross the blood-brain barrier to exert their effects. At a systemic level, milk powder interacts with the digestive system by improving gut microbiota and barrier function, supports the immune system through increased mucosal immunity (e.g., secretory IgA), and influences the nervous system via MFGM components that impact neurodevelopment. Known molecular targets include specific gut microbiota species, immune cells in the gut mucosa, and neuronal cells influenced by MFGM lipids.

Side effects

Milk powder-based formulas are generally considered safe and well-tolerated, particularly in infants and children. Common side effects are minimal, though some infants may experience mild gastrointestinal symptoms such as gas or constipation. Uncommon side effects (1-5% frequency) include rare allergic reactions in individuals sensitive to milk proteins. Severe milk protein allergy or intolerance is a rare side effect (less than 1% frequency) but can occur. There are no significant drug interactions reported with milk powder. However, milk powder is contraindicated in individuals with a diagnosed milk protein allergy or galactosemia. Special considerations apply to certain populations: preterm infants may require specialized fortified formulas to meet their unique nutritional needs, and infants with a confirmed cow's milk allergy should strictly avoid milk powder-based formulas. It is crucial to consult a healthcare professional if any adverse reactions are suspected.

Dosage

The minimum effective dose of milk powder varies significantly depending on the age of the individual and the specific formula type. For infants, milk powder-based infant formulas are designed to provide complete nutritional needs, and dosage should strictly follow the manufacturer's recommendations, typically aiming for 100-150 kcal/kg/day. There is no established upper limit for the maximum safe dose of milk powder; however, excessive intake may lead to gastrointestinal discomfort. Milk powder is primarily used as the main nutritional source for infants or as a supplementary nutrient source for older children. It is typically reconstituted with water, and proper hygienic preparation is crucial. Adequate hydration and proper mixing are important factors to ensure optimal nutrient absorption. No specific cofactors are required for its absorption, but a balanced diet is always recommended.

FAQs

Is milk powder safe for infants?

Yes, when used as part of properly formulated infant formula, milk powder is safe and supports healthy growth and development in infants.

Does milk powder support cognitive development?

Supplementation with MFGM-enriched milk powder formulas has been shown to improve cognitive outcomes in infants, supporting brain development.

Can milk powder cause allergies?

Milk powder contains milk proteins that can cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals, ranging from mild symptoms to severe allergic responses.

How quickly do benefits appear?

Improvements in gut microbiota composition and growth parameters can typically be observed within the first few months of feeding milk powder-based formulas.

Research Sources

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39832301/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis of RCTs found that prebiotic-supplemented milk formula significantly improves gut microbiota composition, specifically increasing Bifidobacterium species, in infants up to 6 months old without negatively impacting growth. The study highlights the beneficial role of prebiotics in infant gut health.
https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/16/14/2374 – This systematic review and meta-analysis of RCTs demonstrated that the addition of Milk Fat Globule Membrane (MFGM) to infant formula significantly improves cognitive outcomes in infants. The research suggests MFGM's role in neurodevelopment, though long-term data is limited.
https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/14/23/5060 – This systematic review and meta-analysis concluded that fortified milk powder significantly improves growth and nutritional status in young children. The study provides high-quality evidence for the efficacy of fortified milk in addressing nutritional deficiencies and promoting healthy development.