Advantages of Whole Milk Formula

First things first: Fats account for about 50% of calories in human milk. They serve as both a critical source of energy for babies but also as building blocks for brain development. All routine infant formulas—those made with whole milk, nonfat milk, cow, soy, goat milk, or any other variety—must meet the same criteria for fat content, to support healthy growth and development. 

So the good news is, there’s likely no wrong choice when it comes to what routine formula you feed your baby, just be sure to speak with your pediatrician to make sure it’s a good fit. However, there are certain advantages that a whole milk formula can offer over nonfat formulas, which may make it a more appealing choice for your baby – even as they transition from infant formula to regular milk and toddler drinks after 12 months of age. 

• Fewer Vegetable Oils Added - Like human milk, whole fat milk options naturally contain a diverse range of fatty acids. This requires fewer oils to be added in order to meet specific fatty acid requirements for infant formula. Choosing a whole fat formula can help minimize the amount of vegetable oil baby consumes while effectively mimicking the fatty acid profile of human milk. 

• Naturally-occurring Milk Fat Globule Membrane (MFGM) - Milk fat exists in the form of globules. These fat globules are surrounded by a complex, triple-layer membrane known as milk fat globule membrane, or MFGM. MFGM is naturally occurring in both whole fat cow milk and whole fat goat milk but is commonly stripped out of nonfat formulas. Some nonfat formula even add it back in as a premium ingredient due to its bioactive properties. Emerging human milk and infant formula studies suggest that the wide variety of proteins and fats that make up MFGM may aid in digestion and absorption, and play important functional roles within the brain, gut, and immune system.
• Nutrient Absorption - The natural structure of fat in whole milk helps the body more easily absorb important fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K found in milk. These vitamins play crucial roles in maintaining healthy mucus membranes, vision, bones, cell membranes
• Pleasant Taste and Creamy Texture - MFGM not only helps keep the fat globules intact, but also acts as a natural emulsifier. This allows the fat to be evenly distributed in the liquid and creates a smooth, creamy texture baby – and parents – find more appealing.  

In short, whole milk delivers intact fats that are more similar to the fat structure of human milk, making it easy for the body to use. We like to think of it like this: You know when your child receives a toy that requires assembly? It might need batteries, you might need to place hundreds of tiny stickers all over it so that it resembles the picture on the box…you know where this is headed. Now think about a gift that comes complete: No assembly required, no add-ons, no optional attachments. It’s a much better experience for both your child and you, right?

Whole milk is like a fully assembled toy, filled with so many of the essential fats and nutrients the human body needs. Likewise, whole milk infant formula gives your baby the wholesome, digestible, nourishing goodness they need—right from the first sip.