Laboratory scale production of a powdered, multi-nutrient human milk fortifier

The objective of this study was to demonstrate the feasibility of producing a powdered, multi-nutrient breast milk fortifier made from donated human milk with a target energy (400 kcal 100 g-1 powder) and protein (40 g protein 100 g-1 powder) composition, supplementation of selected micronutrients, and acceptable solubility and osmolality for clinical use. Three combinations of ultrafiltration (UF) and diafiltration (DF) steps, using either a polyethersulphone (PES) or polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) membrane with 50 kDa molecular mass cut-off, were compared to determine the most efficient process to achieve the target product composition. A process combining one UF and two DF steps using the PVDF membrane was found to be most efficient, resulting in a freeze-dried product with a final average composition of protein, fat and carbohydrates of 40.7, 11.3 and 47.1 g 100 g-1, respectively. (c) 2024 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.