Bunge launches Betapol Plus for infant milk formula

Betapol Plus is the most advanced OPO product of its kind and delivers on BLC’s aim to provide the best solutions for modern-day infant nutrition

Bunge Loders Croklaan (BLC), the edible oil business of US based Bunge Limited, unveiled Betapol® Plus, the next generation of premium quality Oleic-Palmitic-Oleic (OPO or SN-2 palmitate) lipids for infant formula. Betapol Plus is the most advanced OPO product of its kind and delivers on BLC’s aim to provide the best solutions for modern-day infant nutrition.  

OPO is a uniquely structured lipid naturally present in mother’s milk. Recently honored with the Fi Europe 2019 Innovation Award for Functional Innovation, the new Betapol Plus blend for infant formula offers a 60% OPO or SN-2 palmitate level, which is the highest level available on the market, up to 50% higher than current products. This new solution is closer to the levels in mother’s milk fat than any offering available on the market. Benefits of Betapol Plus for babies include improved energy intake, increased bone mineral density, reduced constipation, healthy gut bacteria, less crying and better sleep.

“There is a strong need in the infant milk formula industry to get as close as possible to the composition and benefits of mother’s milk, ensuring parents have the best alternative available when breastfeeding is not possible,” said Dr. Emiliano Rial Verde, Vice President Nutrition at BLC. “With Betapol Plus, we are providing an option that is closest to nature. It adds significant value to infant formula brands where premium choices are in high demand and to the growing specialty infant formula market addressing diverse dietary needs.”

Developed by BLC, the science behind Betapol Plus is backed by robust clinical studies, scientific research programs and established relationships with key infant nutrition authorities in Europe. “We all agree that breastfeeding is important for infant nutrition and bonding,” says Dr. Wiola Mi, Global Human Nutrition Science Lead of the new generation Betapol. “But when breastfeeding is not an option, choosing the best infant formula, with the best evidence-backed ingredients, is key for babies’ healthy growth and development.”