Published February 21, 2025
The Ultimate Guide to MFGM: Supporting Your Baby’s Growth and Development
As a parent, you've likely come across the term MFGM, or Milk Fat Globule Membrane, and wondered what it is — or why it matters for your baby’s health. This natural component found in breast milk plays an important role in supporting infant brain development and immune function. And while MFGM might sound complicated, don’t worry — we’re here to break it down.
Read on to discover how MFGM supports your baby’s growth and development, learn its role in infant formula and get answers to some of the most common questions — so you feel confident in making the best nutritional choices for your little one.
What Is MFGM?
MFGM, more formally known as the Milk Fat Globule Membrane, is a natural layer surrounding fat droplets in breast milk (and all mammal milks). According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), it’s filled with important proteins and lipids that may offer immunological and antimicrobial effects. In other words, it’s a powerhouse of components that may help support your baby’s brain development, immune system and overall growth — just like breast milk.
The NIH also reports that traditional, skim milk-based infant formulas lack MFGM because milk fat is removed during processing and replaced with vegetable oils. To help close this gap, formula makers are now adding whole milk, a source of bovine fat which contains MFGM, to infant formula in order to better model human breast milk.
MFGM-containing formulas are gaining attention from parents looking to give their little ones the best start.
MFGM in Formula: Bridging the Gap Between Breast Milk and Bottle
According to the World Health Organization, breast milk is the gold standard for nutrition during the first six months of life. But for parents who want or need to switch to infant formula, finding the best option can be tricky. Formulas in the United States are modeled after breast milk’s nutritional composition, and advancements in formula technology and composition have made them even closer to this gold standard.
Now, you might be wondering if the formula you choose should contain MFGM. If you're curious about the benefits of this protein-and nutrient-rich membrane, it’s important to know that most formulas in the U.S. don’t contain MFGM. A standard formula typically uses vegetable oils as the primary fat source, which differs in composition to milk fat that naturally contains MFGM.
However, thanks to innovations in formula composition and updated FDA guidelines, formulas can now be made with whole milk to provide a naturally-occurring source of MFGM. So, when you’re shopping for formula, you can simply check the label to see if it contains whole milk, or whey protein components that contain MFGM. Many brands will highlight it as a key ingredient, often emphasizing its potential benefits for cognitive development and immune support.
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MFGM FAQs: Everything You Need to Know
Want to learn more? Below, we’ll answer some common questions about MFGM and its role in infant nutrition—so you can feel confident making informed choices about your baby’s health:
How does MFGM compare to DHA or ARA?
MFGM, Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA), and Arachidonic Acid (ARA) are all important to your baby’s development — but they play unique roles. DHA and ARA are key fatty acids that support brain growth and visual acuity, while MFGM is a protein-rich membrane found in cow’s milk, goat’s milk, and breast milk that helps support cognitive development and immune health.
Together, these nutrients work in harmony to provide a strong foundation for your little one.
Is MFGM only found in cow’s milk, or are there other sources?
While MFGM is naturally found in breast milk, it’s also present in cow’s milk, where it’s referred to as bovine MFGM. This membrane isn’t exclusive to cow’s milk, though — other mammal milk, like goat’s milk, also contains it. But when it comes to MFGM in standard formula, it’s primarily cow’s milk that's used. Researchers are exploring other sources, but for now, this remains the most accessible and widely used source of MFGM in baby nutrition.
Does every infant formula contain MFGM fragments?
While many formulas are modeled after the benefits of breast milk, MFGM fragments are not always part of the standard formulation. You can always check the label of your formula or email the manufacturer to be sure!
Is MFGM beneficial beyond infancy?
Studies suggest MFGM may continue to offer benefits as your child grows, and even into adulthood. While its main benefits are seen during infancy — especially for immune and cognitive development — early research shows that MFGM could support health later in life, too. While studies are still ongoing, the evidence is promising.
How Bobbie Supports Your Baby’s Health
If you're just discovering the benefits of MFGM components in your little one's milk, rest assured — it plays a key role in supporting healthy growth and development. That means you can feel confident knowing your baby is getting essential nutrients.
Bobbie is a trusted name in infant nutrition, combining high-quality ingredients to help nurture your baby’s development. With Bobbie, you’re choosing a formula designed to support your little one every step of the way!
Looking for an infant formula with MFGM from whole milk? Shop Bobbie whole milk infant formula today!
The content on this site is for informational purposes only and not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Discuss any health or feeding concerns with your infant’s pediatrician. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay it based on the content on this page.
