Nestle files for patent on potato baby formula

Nestle has applied for a patent for an infant formula based on potato protein microparticles. The Washington State Potato Commission said the company presents it as a naturally hypoallergenic infant formula that is suitable for infants with cow’s milk protein allergy.

The Nestle patent describes an infant formula based on potato protein, which is naturally absent in the major allergens found in milk and soy. In addition, the patent describes an improved process for producing an infant formula based on potato protein, wherein the process utilizes potato protein microparticles. This enables the processing during production of mixtures comprising an increased total solids concentration and provides improved spray drying.

The WSPC said use of potato protein in an infant formula is advantageous as it has a well-balanced amino acid profile, which is closer to that of human milk than rice or soy protein. Accordingly, less addition of free amino acids is required to provide a composition with the required nutritional profile, which renders the resulting product more cost effective and gives it a more palatable taste.