Vivinal MFGM, a milk fat globule membrane ingredient, has been approved by FrieslandCampina Ingredients for use in infant formulae and other food products in Thailand.
A whey protein concentrate called vivinal MFGM is made by carefully processing unpasteurized cheese whey. Proteins, lipids, and bioactive substances like lactoferrin, immunoglobulin G, and phospholipids are all present.
While a recent in vitro study by FrieslandCampina Ingredients demonstrated that whey-derived MFGM has anti-viral activities against respiratory syncytial virus, clinical investigations have demonstrated that MFGM enhances infants’ cognitive development and lowers the incidence of middle ear infections.
Vivinal MFGM is currently available to Thai manufacturers for use in a variety of baby and young child food applications. In 2024, the infant formula market in Thailand was estimated to be worth $865 million and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 5% through 2029.
Furthermore, 74% of newly launched infant formulas in 2024 will contain at least one bioactive component, indicating that the premiumization of infant milk formula is a trend that is expanding throughout the nation.
"This achievement not only highlights our commitment to meeting rigorous safety standards, but it 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," stated Sophie Nicolas, marketing lead for APAC – Early Life Nutrition at FrieslandCampina Ingredients.
"With this approval, we're able to help brands give more infants the nutrients they need for a great start in life," she continued, adding that families should have access to the best infant milk formula when nursing is not an option.
CMI Research: Key Dairy Protein Industry Insights
Given the rising need for protein components across a range of end-use industries, Coherent Market Insights projects that the dairy protein industry will expand at a significant compound annual growth rate (CAGR) between 2024 and 2031. It is anticipated that the industry will expand significantly during the evaluation period.
Analyst Opinion: Strategic Role in Dairy Protein Industry Growth
Whey and other dairy proteins are frequently used to enhance the texture of baked goods. According to research analyst Pankaj Poddar, the expanding worldwide bread and confectionery sector is anticipated to propel the expansion of the dairy protein sector over the forecast period.
Conclusion: Business Takeaways
Growing consumer interest in health and nutrition food is propelling the dairy protein market further. Two of the major takeaways are innovation in dairy protein solutions and growth in new markets. FrieslandCampina's Thailand approval of Vivinal MFGM is a major milestone that indicates the growth potential in Southeast Asia's functional food market. The approval fuels the growth of the market in the region by providing new opportunities to market high-quality dairy products that can help enhance baby health.
