Case: HMOs (human milk oligosaccharides)
Nature’s recipe for infant health
How biosolutions help bring infant formula closer to breast milk
HMOs are the third most abundant component in breast milk after lipids and lactose
Our five key HMOs match up to half of what's naturally found in breast milk, helping create formula that supports infant development in multiple ways - from gut health to brain development.
The challenge
Supporting infant development
While breast milk provides optimal nutrition for infant development, unfortunately not all mothers can breastfeed. Studies indicate that human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs) – complex sugars unique to breast milk – play a strong role in infant development. With over 150 different HMO structures identified in breast milk, each bringing unique benefits, recreating these complex compounds has been one of the biggest challenges in infant nutrition. Formula manufacturers have long sought ways to develop recipes closer to breast milk.
The solution
Biology’s blueprint for better formula
Through precision fermentation, we can now produce five of the most important HMOs found in breast milk. These include 2’-FL (the most abundant HMO), 3-FL (which increases during lactation), LNT (the core structure for most HMOs), and 3’-SL and 6’-SL (important sialylated HMOs). Together, they represent all structural classes found in breast milk.
The benefits
Building stronger starts
Like their natural counterparts, these HMOs act as prebiotics, supporting multiple aspects of infant development: fueling beneficial gut bacteria, supporting immune system maturation, enhancing brain development and promoting a healthy gut barrier. As they reach the colon intact, they help balance the microbiome and support the gut-brain axis. This breakthrough means more babies worldwide can access these essential nutrients, regardless of feeding method.
Key facts and benefits
Matches up to 50% of breast milk HMOs
Promotes a healthy gut
Enhances immune system function
Supports brain development
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Let’s nourish a growing world together
Biology has always been a fundamental part of creating food – and today it holds the potential to transform every step of our food value chain.
Explore with us the interconnected challenges and innovative solutions transforming how we grow, make and consume food – and discover how together we can create more balanced, secure and resilient food systems.
