Why are almost all baby formulas harmful?

The vast majority of infant formulas use mineral components in inorganic form (carbonates, sulfates, chlorides, phosphates, oxides). This is not because manufacturers want to degrade the product, but due to the technology and economics of production.

The difference between organic and inorganic forms of minerals

Organic forms — these are minerals bound to organic acids or amino acids (citrates, glycinates, malates, lactates). They are better absorbed because their chemical structure is closer to the compounds found in living tissues.

Inorganic forms — these are salts of minerals (carbonates, oxides, sulfates). They are cheaper, more stable in dry mixtures, but are less well absorbed and can irritate the gastrointestinal tract.

For an adult, the difference in bioavailability can be compensated by dosage, but for an infant, whose enzymatic and transport systems are still developing, this is much more significant.

Why inorganic forms are used in formulas

Stability: organic mineral salts are often hygroscopic and can interact with the proteins and fats in the formula, causing rancidity or clumping.

Cost: organic forms (e.g., calcium citrate or magnesium glycinate) are several times more expensive compared to carbonates and sulfates.

Regulatory standards: most regulations (EU, USA, Ukraine) only define minimum and maximum amounts of minerals in the formula, not their form. The manufacturer chooses the most economical and stable option to pass certification.

How this affects absorption and the health of the child

Calcium: formulas often contain calcium carbonate or tricalcium phosphate. These forms dissolve poorly at the pH of an infant's stomach, especially in newborns with low acidity.

Iron: sulfate or fumarate of iron is often used. They can oxidize the fats in the formula and irritate the intestinal mucosa.

Zinc, copper, manganese: are used in the form of sulfates or oxides, which are absorbed at 5–20%, with the rest settling in the intestines.

Side effects: inorganic forms can increase the risk of colic, constipation, or diarrhea, as well as enhance oxidative processes (especially iron and copper).

Difference from breast milk

In breast milk, minerals are almost entirely in organic or biocomplex forms:

• Calcium — in the form of lactate and bound to casein.
• Iron — in chelates with lactalbumin and lactoferrin (bioavailability is 10 times higher than in formula).
• Zinc and copper — in the form of amino complexes.

This is one of the reasons why even with lower absolute doses of minerals, breast milk provides better absorption.