FrieslandCampina Ingredients is Thailand’s ‘only provider of both HMOs and GOS’ after regulatory nod

The product had been already approved for use in flavored milk drinks for children aged three and above, but Thai regulators have now also given the green light for its use in infant and follow-up formula. This makes FrieslandCampina the only provider of both human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs) and galacto-oligosaccharide (GOS) ingredients in the country, the company claims.

2’-fucosyllactose (2’-FL), a type of HMO, has been widely studied and is considered safe for infant nutrition. It is the most abundantly produced HMO, with an average of 2.4g per 1L of milk¹​, but can also be produced through chemical synthesis for use in supplements or infant formula. Research has shown 2’-FL promotes the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut and boasts anti-inflammatory properties.

FrieslandCampina Ingredients says this regulatory approval could create opportunities for new formulations that incorporate both HMOs and GOS ingredients. In Thailand, around 15% of new infant milk formula product launches in 2023 had been supplemented with 2’-FL, suggesting a significant market potential.

Sophie Nicolas, global marketing lead, early life nutrition at FrieslandCampina Ingredients said the company had developed concept applications for RTD beverages for young children when the ingredient got its previous regulatory nod, but the latest approval means its product can be used in applications across the entire early life nutrition category.

“Science shows that 2’-FL can play a vital role in supporting health in infancy and childhood, thanks in part to its bifidogenic effects,” Nicolas explained. “But this is just one example of the benefits offered by 2’-FL and oligosaccharides more widely.