The protein composition has changed; the level of alpha-lactalbumin has been increased to levels that are much closer to that of breast milk. As a result, the amount of beta-lactoglobulin, which is not normally present in breast milk, has been reduced. SMA Gold now has the closest whey protein profile to breast milk and that is a fundamental change. Alpha-lactalbumin enriched whey protein provides an improved protein composition, closer to that of breast milk, and an improved amino acid profile – for excellent protein bioavailability and tolerability.¹

1. [Davis AM, Harris BJ and the USA Multi-centre Group. Increased alpha-lactalbumin infant formula fed to healthy term infants in a multi-centre plasma essential amino acid study [abstract]. J Pediatr Gastroenterol Nutr. 2005; 40:630. Abstract N-04] [Heine WE, Klein PD, Reeds PJ. The importance of alpha-lactalbumin in infant nutrion. J Nutr. 1991:121:277-283.] [Jackson JG, Janszen DB, Lönnerdal B, Lien EL, Pramuk KP, Kuhlman CF. A multinternational study of alpha-lactalbumin concentrations in human milk. J Nutr Biochem. 2004;15:517-521.] Lein EL et al Growth and Safety in term infants fed reduced-protein formula with added bovine alpha-lactalbumin. Journal of Paediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition 2004: 38: 170-176.

The quality of the protein is the biggest benefit. These changes are important as they result in a whey protein composition closer to that of breast milk, which allows for an improved essential amino acid profile and lower total protein. Currently typical first stage formulas have a protein ratio of 60% whey protein and 40% casein, or curd protein. This is a similar ratio to breast milk. However, the whey protein in SMA Gold now contains increased amounts of alpha-lactalbumin, which is the main whey protein found in breast milk. It plays an important nutritional role for infants and is a source of essential amino acids (these are the building blocks of protein). The body uses amino acids for growth and to repair muscles and tissue. Most parents of bottlefed babies choose a first stage formula because the whey protein/casein ratio makes it closer to breast milk. The addition of SMA alpha-protein (alphalactalbumin) now means that SMA Gold has the closest whey protein profile to that of breast milk. The improved quality of the protein has been shown to be well tolerated by baby, similar to breast milk.

There may be a period of about 24 hours when baby is slightly unsettled when switching between new and old formula. Baby’s bowel habits can change when moving from breast to bottle or changing infant formula. Mothers have been informed of the change via an underlid leaflet in SMA Gold cans, so you may get some enquiries about this. If you need any additional information on the formulation change please call the SMA Careline on 0845-776 2900 or 1800 931 832 (ROI).

SMA White and Progress are essentially the same. However, we have taken this opportunity to update our ingredient list and nutritional information panel. The minor changes will not affect the nutritional quality for baby in any way.

You can contact your local SMA sales representative. If you don’t have their contact details, please call the SMA Careline and they will be able to help you. Alternatively, all of the product information can be found on this website.