A2 β-casein infant formula with high sn-2 palmitate and casein phosphopeptides (CPP) supports energy and mineral absorption in Chinese infants

Infant formula (IF) is essential when breastfeeding is not possible or sufficient. We previously reported that, in a randomized, double-blind clinical trial with 180 healthy infants, an A2 β-casein IF containing high sn-2 palmitate levels, and casein phosphopeptides (CPP) improved stool consistency, gastrointestinal comfort, crying time, and bone mineral density. Here, we present complementary, pre-specified, biochemical analyses from the same cohort. Relative to standard cow's milk IF, the A2 β-casein, high sn-2 palmitate and CPP IF reduced fatty acid and calcium excretion, reduced calcium fatty acid soap formation, increased hair iron and zinc content, and was associated with lower cortisol levels. These parameters were not different from the breastfed group in the study. Together, the previously published clinical outcomes and the biochemical findings presented here suggest that an IF designed to narrow the compositional gap with human milk may deliver some of the advantages of breastfeeding, providing a path for improving IF compositions.