Innova 2020: A Follow-Up Study of the Fecal Microbiota of Infants Using a Novel Infant Formula between 6 Months and 12 Months of Age

Abstract

The World Health Organization recommends exclusive breastfeeding until at least six months of age, with breast milk or formula being the primary food source until one year, followed by the gradual introduction of other foods. During weaning, the gut microbiota matures, and disruptions can lead to a higher incidence of infectious diseases. This study aimed to compare whether a new infant formula (INN) promotes a gut microbiota closer to that of breastfed (BF) infants from 6 to 12 months of age, compared to a standard formula (STD). The study involved 210 infants divided into three groups: one receiving INN formula, one receiving STD formula, and one exclusively breastfed. Key findings included lower Bacillota levels in the INN group at 6 months and significant differences in gut diversity between the BF/INN groups and the STD group. At 12 months, Verrucomicrobiota levels were higher in the INN and BF groups compared to the STD group. Additionally, Clostridium sensu stricto 1 levels were higher in the INN group, and calprotectin and immunoglobulin A levels varied across groups. The study suggests that the INN formula may promote a gut microbiota more similar to that of breastfed infants during the weaning period.