Consumer concerns are shifting from treatment of existing health problems to the prevention of future ones, according to Innova Market Insights. Consumers are taking positive action to prevent health concerns before they arise and are looking for products that meet their needs for holistic health and personal well-being. Part of taking responsibility for health is focusing on protein intake, according to numerous sources. Innova’s global research showed 42% of consumers stated protein was the most important nutrient. The 2023 Food & Health Survey from the International Food Information Council (IFIC), showed that 34% of all adults are seeking out healthy-aging benefits from the foods and beverages they purchase. Specifically, 44% of Baby Boomers and 35% of Gen X are interested in healthy aging. 

MFGM for Adult Nutrition

Milk fat globule membrane (MFGM) is a powerful whey protein fraction that fuels infant formula by delivering key nutrients for proper growth and development. It is naturally present in mother’s milk, with MFGM from bovine milk the next best thing. Now studies show that consumption of MFGM throughout the lifecycle may assist with healthy aging. In addition to whey protein benefits, MFGM has been clinically shown to support cognition, cardiovascular health, gut health and mobility in adults. Age-related muscle wasting and weakness is particularly important to the aging person, as reduced agility has been associated with adverse effects on quality of life and life expectancy.₁ Research indicates that daily ingestion of MFGM, combined with regular exercise, may enhance agility.2 

Hilmar 7500 with MFGM

An offering in Hilmar’s PROfraction™ line of proteins, Hilmar 7500 MFGM enriched WPC may be used in foods and beverages targeting adults. By fractionating protein, Hilmar is able to concentrate beneficial compounds and make them available as ingredients. In addition to nutritious whey protein, Hilmar 7500 also delivers additional MFGM benefits to your end-product formulation. 

Hilmar 7500 is highly soluble and heat stable with a bland flavor profile and excellent emulsifying properties, making it applicable for use in varied foods and beverages. Hilmar 7500 also has a high level of branched chain amino acids (BCAAs): 3.9% isoleucine, 7.5% leucine and 4.1% valine. BCAAs stimulate the building of protein in muscle and reduce muscle breakdown. When consumed in sufficient amounts, BCAAs help maintain muscle mass and strength, which is important in healthy aging. “What makes Hilmar 7500 different from other whey proteins is the inclusion of MFGM, and all the health benefits associated with consumption,” said Dr. Chao Wu, director of product research and development at Hilmar. “Specifically, it is the concentration of phospholipids and sphingolipids in MFGM that makes it unique in the world of dairy ingredients.” 

Phospholipids and Sphingolipids

These two polar compounds are integral to the nervous system function and are implicated in cognitive performance and psychological response to situational stress.3 Sphingolipids, in particular, are garnering the attention of functional food and beverage manufacturers. These are highly bioactive molecules, and mainly present in polar lipids from animal origin. They account for up to one third of the MFGM polar lipid fraction.₄

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Formulating Products with MFGM

Foods and beverages formulated with Hilmar 7500 Milk Fat Globule Membrane can help consumers prioritize prevention. Beverages, such as protein shakes and meal replacements, are ideal carriers. The ingredient can also be used to boost the protein content of spoonable desserts like pudding and parfaits, and can be added to yogurt and drinkable cultured products. Hilmar 7500 may also be used in high-protein baked goods, such as cookies and muffins. Many better-for-you snack foods would benefit from the addition of Hilmar 7500 to meet the growing need of today’s aging consumer.  

Download our full MFGM white paper to learn more about the preventive benefits of MFGM and start exploring options for your next food or beverage formulation. 

¹ Evans W, (1995) What is sarcopenia? The Journals of Gerontology. 50:5-8.

² Ota N, Soga S, et al. (2015) Daily consumption of milk fat globule membrane plus habitual exercise improves physical performance in healthy middle-aged adults. SpringerPlus. 4:120.  

³ Küllenberg D, Taylor L, et al. (2012) Health effects of dietary phospholipids. Lipids Health Dis. 11:1-16. 

⁴ Dewettinck K, Rombaut R, et al. (2008) Nutritional and technological aspects of milk fat globule membrane material. International Dairy Journal. 18:436-457.