Summary Human milk contains an abundance of biologically active components that are highly likely to contribute to the short- and long-term benefits of breastfeeding. Many of these components are proteins; this article describes some of these proteins, such as α-lactalbumin, lactoferrin, osteopontin, and milk fat globule membrane proteins. An important consideration when adding bioactive proteins to infant formula is that the total protein content of formula needs to be reduced, because formula-fed infants have significantly higher concentrations of serum amino

Protein Recommendations There is a general understanding that the current protein content in infant formulas exceeds infant requirements, but the optimal protein content of infant formulas is still controversial. Several guide lines and experts have made recommendations for the protein level in infant formulas, which generally agree on a minimum value. The European Society of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition (ESPG HAN) recommend a range of 1.8-2.8 g/100 kcal. The committee on nutrition of the American Academy of pediatrics and