I have not read every post Re: the new formulas so I
am not certain if this point has already been made.
Forgive me if this is old news.

I attended 2 presentations re: the new formulas one
given by a well educated MD(sponsored by formula) and
another by an equally prepared PhD in Nutrition (WIC).
Both made this important point.

DHA and ARA are NOT essential fatty acids. The body
will produce them on its own if the precursors are
present. Linoleic and linolenic acids are essential
and are the precursors for the production of DHA and
ARA. The 2 essential fatty acids are present in the
currently manufactured formulas  and a term infant
will produce DHA and ARA sufficiently. Of course,
there are question about the premie, for whom
supplements might be helpful. By 8 months, visual
acuity is about equal in BF and formula fed infants
(term babies, found in 2-3 studies).

Bottom line, the addition of DHA and ARA are not
necessary to standard formula since the precursors are
already present. They have increased the cost 40%.

It is also interesting the DHA levels fluctuate in
women and their breastmilk based on diets...indicating
the "non-essential" nature of this fatty acids. The
precursors found in other foods in a more plentiful
amount provide the basis for DHA syntheses.

Another concern is that if the "old formula"
(cheaper)is going to be replaced by the additive
formula (more expensive), the increased cost to WIC
will result in a decrease in the number of clients who
will get WIC support.

We are seeing the pressure now because both formula
companies are now withdrawing standard formula from
our hospital and provide only the new product (guess
who is not BFHI compliant). Staff is now concerned
that WIC moms will be started on "the better" formula
and then have to switch to a "lesser formula".
Educating the staff on these points has been
challenging, especially since their bellies are full
of lunch provided by the rep.

Anne Andrianos

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