Dairy-based nutrition solutions for every stage of motherhood
Dairy-based nutrition for maternal and infant wellbeing
From family planning to breastfeeding, maternal nutrition plays a critical role in the health of both parent and baby. During these life stages, nutritional needs increase significantly, calling for products that are not only nutritious, but also safe, appealing, and trusted. At Valio, we offer dairy-based solutions with high-quality protein, phospholipids, and the right nutrients designed to support maternal wellbeing and the healthy growth and development of the infant.
Phospholipids
Phospholipids and MFGM – dairy nutrition for parent and child
Milk fat globule membrane (MFGM) and its key components, such as phospholipids, play an important role in maternal and infant nutrition. For parents during pregnancy and lactation, the good quality of dietary fats helps support the development of breast milk with an optimal lipid profile.
In infant nutrition, MFGM may contribute to cognitive development, immune function, and gut wellbeing. Research on phospholipids also suggests benefits for emotional resilience and cognitive performance in adults. Valio’s solutions rich in naturally occurring MFGM are derived from fresh Finnish milk and are suitable for dry blends, maternal milk powder formulations, and enriched products designed for pregnancy, lactation, and infant diets.
Protein
Protein for maternal and infant nutrition
Pregnancy and breastfeeding increase the mother’s protein requirements. Adequate intake of high-quality protein provides the essential amino acids needed for fetal tissue development during pregnancy and supports the protein composition of breast milk, helping ensure healthy infant growth.
Valio’s milk protein ingredients deliver complete amino acid profiles with excellent digestibility. Designed especially for maternal milk powders, they provide a concentrated, well-tolerated source of nutrition that also supports maternal recovery, energy balance, and immune resilience during this demanding life stage.
Alongside protein, maternal solutions can also integrate key nutrients such as calcium, vitamin D, iron, DHA, and choline, addressing the broader needs of pregnancy and lactation in one tailored formulation.
Why Valio?
Why choose Valio for maternal dairy nutrition solutions?
We combine over 120 years of dairy expertise with cutting-edge research into maternal and infant nutrition. With Valio, you gain more than ingredients; you gain a partner with proven R&D and formulation capabilities, strong OEM support, and deep understanding of product development and consumer expectations. All our solutions are built on traceable, non-GMO Finnish milk and meet growing demand for digestive wellness.
Maternal Nutrition applications
Targeted dairy nutrition for pregnancy and beyond
Valio’s maternal milk powder concept is designed to support the health of both parent and baby, from early pregnancy through breastfeeding. With high-quality protein, DHA, essential vitamins and minerals, and added choline, this solution supports maternal wellbeing and infant development. A decreased lactose content with GOS fibre also promotes digestive comfort during this nutritionally demanding life stage.
Dairy ingredients that adapt to maternal nutrition needs
Valio’s milk powders and proteins provide a versatile base for maternal nutrition innovation. These high-quality ingredients can be used across a variety of applications – from powders and fortified beverages to snacks and dairy desserts – helping manufacturers create products that deliver both functionality and consumer appeal.
Latest research on maternal health and dairy nutrition
Explore the science behind our maternal nutrition solutions, from clinical studies on phospholipids and MFGM to consumer research on protein intake during pregnancy.
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Lactose intolerance and digestive wellness
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Tuula Hietanen
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Let’s talk maternal dairy nutrition solutions
Looking to launch or scale a product for maternal health? Our team of experts can help you formulate, customise, and deliver high-performing dairy-based solutions for this important consumer group.
