Arla Foods Ingredients showcases MFGM benefits beyond infant formula

Arla Foods Ingredients’ Whey360 campaign showcases the diverse applications of milk fat globule membrane (MFGM) in adult functional foods and toddler meals. Credit: Shutterstock

Arla Foods Ingredients has launched the Whey360 campaign to highlight the benefits of milk fat globule membrane (MFGM) beyond infant formula. This follows a ruling by the Danish Veterinary and Food Administration, confirming that MFGM is not classified as a novel food in the EU. This means MFGM can now be declared on food products for both infants and adults.

What is MFGM and why is it important?

MFGM is a natural component of breast milk and is rich in whey protein, complex milk lipids (phospholipids and Omega-3 fatty acids), and other important nutrients. While MFGM’s benefits for early life nutrition are well known, Arla Foods Ingredients was the first to offer MFGM for infant formula. Now, the company is working to raise awareness of its broader potential in other food categories.

Arla’s MFGM ingredients are a complete source of essential amino acids and complex lipids. They are also high in Vitamin B12, helping to address a widespread micronutrient deficiency, and contain choline, which supports metabolic health. With 53% of adults globally showing interest in functional foods, MFGM’s benefits are gaining more attention.

New concepts and recipes to promote MFGM

The Whey360 campaign introduces three new functional nutrition concepts for adults and children:

• A squeezable cheese
• A kids’ UHT drink
• A high-protein drinking yoghurt

The campaign also features three recipes designed to create nutrient-packed “mini-meals” for toddlers:

• A drinkable fruit yoghurt with a straw
• A squeezable smoothie
• An instant porridge mix

The power of MFGM: on-pack claims

MFGM’s versatility is also supported by the ability to make on-pack claims, such as “high in protein,” “contains Omega-3,” “rich in B12,” and “contains milk phospholipids,” as per EU Regulation (EC) 1924/2006.

Henrik Jacob Hjortshøj on MFGM’s growing potential

Henrik Jacob Hjortshøj, Head of Sales Development, Functional Nutrition at Arla Foods Ingredients, said: “After nearly two decades working with MFGM in infant nutrition, we are excited to explore its benefits in other product categories. MFGM is a powerful combination of whey protein, milk lipids, vitamins, and micronutrients. Our goal is to show how MFGM can be used to create innovative functional nutrition products for people of all ages.”

He also welcomed the EU’s decision on MFGM’s non-novel food status. “This decision is a huge step in helping us provide advanced nutrition. With clear documentation, we are excited to see more customers incorporate MFGM into both food and infant nutrition products, raising consumer awareness worldwide.”

For more information on Arla Foods Ingredients and their MFGM range, visit their website.