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That additive in infant formulas is supposed to replicate breast milk. It was big news when they got FDA approval:
The Nutritional Products Group of Martek Biosciences Corporation specializes in the research and development of two nutritional fatty acids, docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and arachidonic acid (ARA). DHA, an omega-3 fatty acid, is found in tissue throughout the body. It is a major structural fatty acid in the gray matter of the brain and the retina of the eye, and is a key component of heart tissue. DHA is important for proper brain and eye development in infants and has been shown to support cardiovascular health in adults. ARA, an omega-6 fatty acid, is the principal omega-6 in the brain and is abundant in other cells throughout the body. ARA is equally important for proper brain development in infants and is a precursor to a group of hormone-like substances called eicosanoids (e.g. prostanoids, leukotrienes and thromboxanes). Eicosanoids are important in immunity, blood clotting and other vital functions in the body. Humans obtain ARA by eating common foods such as meat, eggs and milk, whereas DHA is found in a limited selection of foods such as fatty fish and organ meat. Both fatty acids occur naturally in breast milk and have proven health benefits that extend from prenatal development through adult life.
Martek produces DHA and ARA from natural vegetarian sources. Crypthecodinium cohnii, an alga, is a naturally high producer of DHA, while Mortierella alpina, a fungus, is a naturally high producer of ARA. These vegetarian sources are grown under strict manufacturing conditions in facilities that follow U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) current Good Manufacturing Practice (cGMP) regulations. This ensures the purity of the finished products.
Martek has patented the blending of its DHA and ARA oils (Formulaid®) and sells it primarily for use in infant formulas. The Company has entered into license agreements with thirteen infant formula manufacturers who represent more than two-thirds of the world's wholesale infant formula market. Formulas containing Martek's oils are now available in more than 60 countries worldwide, including the United Kingdom, Mexico, China, the United States and, most recently, Canada.
Regards,
Bob |
