The latest news, trends, analysis, interviews and podcasts from the global food and beverage industry

FrieslandCampina Ingredients has received approval for its milk fat globule membrane ingredient, Vivinal MFGM, for use in infant formulas and other food products in Thailand.

Vivinal MFGM is a whey protein concentrate obtained through the gentle processing of unpasteurised cheese whey. It contains proteins, lipids and bioactive components such as phospholipids, immunoglobulin G and lactoferrin.

Clinical studies have shown MFGM supports infants’ cognitive development and reduces the risk of middle ear infections, while a recent in vitro study conducted by FrieslandCampina Ingrdients showed that whey-derived MFGM has anti-viral effects against respiratory syncytial virus.

Manufacturers in Thailand can now utilise Vivinal MFGM in a wide range of infant and young child food applications. Thailand’s infant formula market was valued at $865 million in 2024 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 5% through 2029.

Additionally, the premiumisation of infant milk formula is a growing trend in the country, with 74% of new infant formula launches containing at least one bioactive ingredient in 2024.

Sophie Nicolas, marketing lead for APAC – Early Life Nutrition at FrieslandCampina Ingredients, said: “This achievement  not only emphasises our commitment to meeting rigorous safety standards, but also offers brands the exciting opportunity to create premium infant milk formulas for the growing Thai market, with all the added health benefits this premium ingredient with bioactive proteins offers”.

She added: “Families deserve access to the highest-quality infant milk formula when breastfeeding is not possible – and with this approval, we’re able to help brands provide more infants with the nutrients they need for a great start in life”.