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A Systematic Review to Reassess the Formula for Early Life Growth.
Kanishka N Nilaweera1, Douwe van Sinderen2, Paul D Cotter3
1Department of Food Bioscience, Teagasc Food Research Centre, Moorepark, Cork, Ireland; VistaMilk Research Centre, Teagasc Food Research Centre, Moorepark, Cork, Ireland.
Advances in Nutrition (Bethesda, Md.)
|May 23, 2026
Summary
High whey protein (WP) to casein (CN) ratios in infant formula, similar to human milk, may lead to nutrient loss and reduced growth. Hydrolyzed whey proteins show improved nutrient absorption and growth in animal models.
Area of Science:
- Comparative Mammalian Physiology
- Nutritional Biochemistry
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Mammalian growth during suckling is supported by species-specific milk composition, particularly the whey protein (WP) to casein (CN) ratio.
- Cross-species milk consumption can impact growth outcomes due to differing protein profiles.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review the effects of high bovine WP-to-CN ratio feeds on growth in infants, piglets, and rodent pups.
- To investigate the impact on body weight, gut morphology, and cellular activity related to milk/protein intake.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of 280 research articles, with 16 infant and 13 animal studies meeting inclusion criteria.
- Searched PubMed using keywords like "whey", "infant formula", "growth", and "suckling stage".
Main Results:
- Infant formula with bovine WP:CN ratio ≥ human milk (60:40) correlated with reduced weight gain despite adequate energy intake, indicating nutrient loss.
- Porcine and rodent models showed reduced nutrient absorption, primarily driven by bovine WP, potentially mediated by gut microbiota.
- Hydrolysis of bovine WP mitigated nutrient loss and improved growth compared to intact proteins.
Conclusions:
- High bovine WP-to-CN ratios in infant formula may impair nutrient absorption and growth.
- Hydrolyzed whey proteins and optimized ratios could enhance infant formula efficacy.
- Findings suggest potential for lower protein content in infant formula for healthier growth.
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