Baby’s Only® Organic Premium Infant Formula is not considered a preterm infant formula, a preterm discharge formula, or a human milk fortifier (HMF).
Babies born preterm (less than 37 weeks gestational age) have higher calorie, protein, and micronutrient needs than term infants.(1-3) Especially in a preterm infant, human milk (from the mother or from a donor) is ideal, when it is available. However, this is not always possible or available, which is why parents look to infant formula to support their preterm babies. Therefore, preterm infant formulas are often recommended by healthcare providers for babies while they are in the hospital. Preterm infant formulas are sterile, ready-to-feed formulas that have increased amounts of calories, protein, minerals like calcium and phosphorus, and a substantial portion of fat as MCT oils. These attributes of preterm infant formula help support the child’s catch-up growth and improved bone mineralization. The American Academy of Pediatrics states: “routine management of preterm infants, especially those with birth weight <1800 to 2000 g, should include human milk fortified with minerals or formulas designed for preterm infants.”(2)
When a preterm infant is ready to transition home, the preferred milk feeding is human milk with added human milk fortifier, however the data is limited and conflicting on its need.(2) When human milk is not available, then a “post discharge formula” is often used. These nutrient-enriched formulas are available at a standard concentration of 22 kcal/oz and have higher levels of minerals.
The American Academy of Pediatrics states: “Expert opinion has concluded that infants born with birth weights less than 1000 g and discharged before a weight of 2000 g will require fortification of both human milk and infant formula.”(2) Some of these strategies may include:
- Fortify human milk with powdered post discharge formula (22-24 kcal/oz)
- Use several bottle feedings per day of post discharge formula for human milk-fed preterm infants
- Fortify human milk with high-calorie liquid formula intended for preterm infants (30 kcal/oz)
Again, Baby’s Only® Organic Premium Infant Formula is not considered a preterm infant formula, a preterm discharge formula, or a human milk fortifier (HMF). Please check with your child’s healthcare provider to determine the most suitable feeding strategies for your child.
Once a child achieves “catch-up growth,” then a formula like Baby’s Only® Organic Premium Infant Formula may be a fit. Please check with your child’s healthcare provider.
References:
- Goldberg DL, Becker PJ, Brigham K, et al. Identifying Malnutrition in Preterm and Neonatal Populations: Recommended Indicators. J Acad Nutr Diet. 2018;118(9):1571-1582. doi:10.1016/j.jand.2017.10.006
- American Academy of Pediatrics Committee on Nutrition. In: Kleinman RE, Greer FR, eds. Pediatric Nutrition. 8th Edition. Itasaca, IL. American Academy of Pediatrics. 2019. Page 134, 150-153.
- Shah MD, Shah SR. Nutrient deficiencies in the preterm infant. Pediatr Clin North Am. 2009:56(5):1069-1083.