In recent months, formula has taken over supermarket shelves in Brazil. In some cases, it is confused with milk, but experts consider it an ultra-processed product that should be avoided in the diets of children and even adults due to health risks.

Experts warn formula can be mistaken for milk — Photo: Freepik/Reproduction R7

According to Carlos Corassin, professor at USP (University of São Paulo), formula has two options. One of them is formulated without additives, so it is made entirely from ingredients of dairy origin. The other one that worries experts contains additives and contains at least 51% dairy components, which can lead to nutrient loss.

According to nutritionist Lais Amaral, the remaining 49% of the product may contain various ingredients such as sugar, vegetable fat, additives and other ingredients intended exclusively for industrial use.

Regarding the use of the product in baby food, the nutritionist warns that they are in the process of forming eating habits and that the product is considered hyper-tasting – it encourages frequent and excessive consumption and should therefore be avoided.

On the other hand, Guilherme Tavares, food engineer and professor of food engineering at Unicamp (State University of Campinas), believes that formula should not be considered a highly processed product. According to him, these are products that are processed, just as liquid milk turns into powdered milk.

Also indicates that it was not created to replace powdered milk. It also highlights that there will be formula milks with not-so-healthy ingredients. Therefore, experts advise consumers to familiarize themselves with the technical specifications on the product packaging before buying.

In order to produce infant formula, industries must comply with legislation and strictly adhere to quality, safety and formulation requirements.

Not to be given to infants

According to the Brazilian Ministry of Health Nutrition Guidelines for Children Under Two Years of Age, formula should not be consumed by infants or children between the ages of six months and two years. They should also be avoided by adults.

Because, according to the document, super-processed foods contain ingredients that, if consumed, can often lead to a variety of health problems, including hypertension, heart disease, diabetes, cancer, and obesity.

*R7 information