Recently, 2′-FL (fucosyllactose) produced by the German company BASF has obtained EU Novel Food status, and the company is currently working to enter other important market areas with the help of regulations. .
Breast milk is the gold standard for infant nutrition. Compared to infant formula, breastfeeding is associated with better growth patterns, immune function, cognitive development, and long-term health benefits. For mothers who cannot breastfeed, the addition of 2′-FL to infant formula is an important step in bridging the functional gap between formula and breast milk.
The composition of HMOs (human milk oligosaccharides) featured prominently in the news in the first half of 2018. FrieslandCampina’s HMO ingredients are certified for use in infant formula in both the European and US markets. DuPont’s CARE4U HMO has also received GRAS certification from the US FDA for use in infant formula. The companies also received regulatory approvals for the European market.
Research has shown that 2′-fucosyllactose supports healthy gut microbial composition and immune system development, protects against allergic disease, and plays an important role in normal brain function and cognitive development in humans. Based on its ability to deal with mucosal inflammation, 2′-FL is also a promising ingredient in the field of digestive health.
François Scheffler, Senior Vice President at BASF, said that HMOs are a breakthrough in the nutritional improvement of infant formula, and 2′-fucosyllactose will provide children with new options – improving health from infancy and beyond.
Scheffler revealed that the 2′-FL is the first product in BASF’s line of HMOs. Development work and collaboration have begun to show potential for new scientific applications in HMO functionality. It is understood that the new research aims to promote the company’s nutritional field to be at the forefront of science. The development of this new product is only the first step in the HMO infant nutrition portfolio, and it will also enter the field of dietary supplements in the near future.