Formula feeding

Formula feeding is the process of feeding a baby with infant formula, a manufactured food designed and marketed for feeding to babies and infants, usually prepared for bottle-feeding or cup-feeding from powder (mixed with water) or liquid (with or without additional water). The U.S. Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FFDCA) defines infant formula as "a food which purports to be or is represented for special dietary use solely as a food for infants by reason of its simulation of human milk or its suitability as a complete or partial substitute for human milk".

History[edit | edit source]

The first infant formula was invented in 1865 by Justus von Liebig. Liebig's formula was a powdered mixture of cow's milk, wheat and malt flour, and potassium bicarbonate. The invention of infant formula was a significant breakthrough in infant feeding, as it provided an alternative to breastfeeding for mothers who were unable to breastfeed or chose not to.

Types of Formula[edit | edit source]

There are three main types of infant formula: cow's milk-based formula, soy-based formula, and protein hydrolysate formula. Cow's milk-based formula is the most commonly used type, while soy-based formula and protein hydrolysate formula are used for infants with certain health conditions or allergies.

Preparation and Use[edit | edit source]

Infant formula can be prepared from powders, concentrates, or ready-to-use liquids. The correct preparation of formula is crucial for the health of the baby. The World Health Organization recommends that powdered formula be prepared with water that is no cooler than 70°C to kill any bacteria that may be present in the powder.

Health and Nutrition[edit | edit source]

While breastfeeding is the recommended method of infant feeding, formula feeding can provide a nutritionally adequate alternative. Infant formulas are designed to mimic human milk and provide all the necessary nutrients for an infant's growth and development.

Controversies[edit | edit source]

There have been several controversies surrounding formula feeding, including concerns about the marketing practices of formula companies, the nutritional adequacy of formula compared to breast milk, and the potential health risks of formula feeding.

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