FrieslandCampina Ingredients has launched three microencapsulated long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LCPUFA), two DHA ingredients and one ARA ingredient, for use in infant milk formulas. The DHA ingredients are derived from algae oil, while the ARA is derived from fungi oil, and each are launched under the Vana-Sana range.
 
Vana-Sana DHA algae 20L, Vana-Sana ARA 20L, and Vana-Sana DHA algae 11N boast cleaner labels, as dipotassium phosphate and silicon dioxide have been eliminated from their production. They contain no fish-derived oils and use advanced microencapsulation in order to improve sensory properties. Additionally, they are formulated for easier storage and handling, improved stability, and increased shelf life at ambient temperatures, by using the company’s GEA FILTERAT technology, which features a mild drying process. The ingredients are produced at an in-house pilot plant in Meppel, The Netherlands.
 
The 20L varieties are concentrated at 20% DHA and ARA respectively, almost double the typical concentrations of comparable ingredients. Both ingredients are encapsulated in a lactose powder matrix instead of a glucose matrix – lactose is a natural milk sugar commonly used in formulas, while glucose is often regarded as an added sugar and is often required to be labeled as such. According to the company, these are the first DHA and ARA ingredients based in a lactose matrix, and the lactose is derived from milk sourced from FrieslandCampina’s own member farmers.
 
 Both DHA and ARA are present in breast milk, but synthesis is limited in infants, so dietary intake is more crucial, the company reports. DHA is evidenced to play a key role in brain development and improve cognitive outcomes in infants, the company noted, along with its potential role in supporting the development of visual function. Combined with ARA, DHA is also involved in immune development and function.
 
“When it comes to choosing the right ingredients to add to infant milk formula, DHA and ARA are understandably at the top of the list for their important health benefits. But they can be difficult to formulate while preserving their sensory and nutritional profile,” said Marischa Nikkels, marketing manager at FrieslandCampina Ingredients. “Now with the launch of these latest DHA and ARA ingredients, manufacturers can fortify their products with an even higher concentration of LCPUFAs and ensure more sustainable on-pack credentials. Micro-encapsulation is also win-win for consumers – with no off-tastes or bad odors, parents can have the peace of mind that they’re providing one of the best infant milk formulas for their babies.”