Australian and New Zealand government officials, and heads of the infant formula and toddler milk drink industry, today heard that a key breastmilk component, human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs), can build immune systems that protect against neurological disorders and respiratory illnesses such as Covid-19.
Emeritus Professor Geoff Cleghorn, from the University of Queensland, spoke at the Infant Nutrition Council’s Feeding the Future conference in Wellington about the latest research on HMOs.
He said researchers are finding that human microbiomes, fed by highly complex HMOs during infancy, are a centrepiece in mitigating the development of allergies, obesity, neurological disorders, autoimmune disease, and other illnesses.
“Compounds in breastmilk are the fuel for microbes that build immunity in our bodies from a young age.
“Human milk oligosaccharides are complex and diverse chemical compounds – to date, more than 200 different HMO structures have been identified.
“New research shows that these compounds are important to develop protection against illnesses, especially during infancy and as toddlers.
“HMOs are fuel for the good bacteria in our microbiomes. These microbiomes are made up of a plethora of bacteria, viruses, and other tiny living organisms, or microbes which help our bodies.
“There are signs that every body cavity, and every body surface, has its own unique microbiome. We’re finding that the development of these microbiomes at a young age is incredibly important.
“As we grow up, well-fuelled microbiomes better protect against general illness and disease and help prevent neurological disorders such as autism.”
Prof Cleghorn said there is much more to be discovered, and much more potential, in research investigating the role of HMOs and microbiomes.
“Recent scientific advances have made it possible to produce human-identical milk oligosaccharides for use in products that help close the gap between breastfed and formula-fed infants.”
About us:
The Infant Nutrition Council Ltd (INC) is the association for the infant formula industry in Australia and New Zealand. Its members produce over 95% of the volume of infant formula manufactured, sold and exported in New Zealand. INC plays a key role in ensuring compliance and safety in the industry. All members abide by a Code of Conduct that provides direction on industry issues, including the support of breastfeeding, food regulations and standards, food safety issues, and company representatives’ conduct and activities. INC advocates for optimal nutrition for all infants: breastfeeding first, and, when needed, infant formula as the only suitable alternative.
