Abbott launches “closest formula to breast milk” in US with Similac 360 Total Care

18 Nov 2021 --- Abbott is launching its Similac 360 Total Care infant formula with five human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs) identical to those found in human breast milk.

“Similac 360 Total Care is the first infant formula in the US to offer a blend of five of the most abundant HMOs across the three categories of HMOs present in breast milk,” Rachael Buck, PhD senior research fellow at Abbott, tells NutritionInsight.   

The formula targets the brain, immune and digestive systems, aiming to support infant health and development. 

HMOs and breastmilk
Breast milk contains more than 150 HMOs that are continuously being researched, notes Buck. 

“While nothing can replace the benefits of breast milk where HMOs are naturally abundant, some parents cannot or choose not to breastfeed, which makes infant formula the only suitable, nutritionally complete alternative for babies,” she adds. 

The five specific HMOs in Abbott’s latest formula are 2'-FL, 3-FL, 3'-SL, 6’- SL and LNT across fucosylated, sialylated and acetylated categories of HMOs.

“HMOs feed good bacteria in the gut, where 70% of the immune system resides and promote growth of beneficial microbes, influencing immune development and brain development, in part, through the microbial products produced,” explains Buck. Breast milk contains more than 150 HMOs that are being researched for their health benefits.

Gut, brain and immune health
An Abbott research review published in Nutrients notes that the five core HMOs across the three categories present in breast milk may support digestive health, immune health and cognitive development in complementary ways.

As HMOs pass through the gastrointestinal tract, they are believed to exert numerous direct and indirect benefits. Pre-clinical research suggests HMOs may support immune system development by modulating the behavior of immune cells, according to the research review. 

Where cognitive development is concerned, HMOs are believed to be associated with molecular and cellular changes in the developing brain. Scientists are exploring research to try and understand correlations between gut health and brain development.  

Raising industry standards
In 2016, Abbott launched Similac Pro-Advance, which included 2’-FL HMO.

“We’re proud to have helped elevate the standard for the industry as some other brands now offer HMO products. This blend of five different, abundant HMOs makes the launch of Similac 360 Total Care another significant milestone for infant nutrition.”.

In the past two years alone, the company’s HMOs discoveries have accelerated, with research still ongoing, according to Buck.

“Our findings will help inform future innovations so we can continue to help bring good nutrition to those who need it.”

In October, Abbott announced it was investing US$45 million into the new Abbott Center for Malnutrition Solutions annually in a bid to reduce global malnutrition. A key area of focus is mothers, infants and young children. 

Parents have also been concerned with contamination fears in the products they give their children, which has seen the clean label trend manifest more within the infant nutrition market. 

By Andria Kades