What Is MFGM? 

MFGM is rich in phospholipids, glycolipids, and various bioactive proteins such as lactoferrin and mucin (1)(2). Thanks to its unique structure, MFGM is not just “fat”—it’s a complex of nutrients that supports gut barrier health, strengthens the immune system, and promotes brain and cognitive development (3). 

Where Is MFGM Found? 

MFGM naturally originates from the milk of mammals and can be found in dairy products such as breast milk, cow’s milk, goat’s milk, and infant formula enriched with MFGM (4).

In breast milk, MFGM is produced by epithelial cells in the mammary glands and is present throughout the breastfeeding period—from colostrum to mature milk. Cow’s milk also contains MFGM, but during processing—especially when heated above 60°C—its structure may be damaged, leading to significant loss compared to raw milk (5).

In recent years, manufacturers in Vietnam have successfully added MFGM to premium infant formulas to better replicate the “gold standard” of breast milk, helping Vietnamese children develop more comprehensively in their early years (1). 

How Does MFGM Support Children’s Immune Health? 

Previously, research on MFGM focused mainly on its benefits for physical and brain development. However, thanks to advances in modern science, growing evidence shows that MFGM plays a vital role in supporting immune health (2). MFGM may help children in the following ways: 

1. Enhances Defense Through Bioactive Compounds

MFGM contains a “treasure trove” of bioactive compounds with antimicrobial properties. For example, mucin and lactadherin may help inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria and viruses (2). Additionally, butyrophilin is believed to help regulate immune responses (2).

2. Supports Gut Immunity After Surviving Harsh Digestive Conditions

MFGM can remain active in the digestive tract of children because their stomach acid and digestive enzymes are less harsh than those of adults. Its unique structure also makes it less susceptible to enzymatic breakdown (2). This allows MFGM to retain its immune-supporting functions in the gut and throughout the body (6). It may also interact with the gut lining to reinforce the mucosal barrier (2).

3. Helps Balance Gut Microbiota

Although more research is needed, studies suggest that phospholipids and sphingolipids in MFGM may help balance gut microbiota, thereby enhancing immune function both locally and systemically.

Which Children Should Prioritize MFGM Supplementation?

1. Children Not Breastfed

According to a study by Dominika Ambrożej et al. published in Nutrients, infant formula containing MFGM not only supports physical and cognitive growth but also improves immune resistance compared to formulas without MFGM (1). Breast milk is a valuable source of nutrition in early life. If a child cannot be breastfed, they may face reduced immunity. Therefore, supplementing MFGM through formula can help improve overall health.

2. Children in the “Immune Gap” Phase (6 Months to 3 Years)

From 6 months to 3 years, passive immunity from the mother via the placenta wanes, while the child’s own immune system is still developing. This period is known as the “immune gap” (8). It’s also when children begin adapting to new environments and routines (crawling, eating solids, attending daycare). Supplementing MFGM during this phase can help strengthen their immature immune system.

3. Children with Weak Immunity or Frequent Illness

Some children, even older ones, frequently suffer from recurring digestive or respiratory infections. These children may benefit from MFGM supplementation through diet or nutritional products. MFGM has been shown to reduce the number of fever days and episodes in preschool-aged children.

“As a pediatric nutrition specialist, I believe MFGM is one of nature’s gifts for enhancing immune health—especially in infants and young children. Its bioactive structure helps boost immunity, limit pathogen invasion, and support brain development, allowing children to thrive during their early years.” 
— Dr. Nguyễn Thị Ngọc Thanh, Pediatric Nutrition Specialist, Vinamilk Nutrition Center

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Dr. Nguyễn Thị Ngọc Thanh, Pediatric Nutrition Specialist – An Khang General Clinic 

Reference

(1). Ambrożej D, Dumycz K, Dziechciarz P, Ruszczyński M. Milk Fat Globule Membrane Supplementation in Children: Systematic Review with Meta-Analysis. Nutrients. 2021 Feb 24;13(3):714. Link  

(2). Cavaletto M, Givonetti A, Cattaneo C. The Immunological Role of Milk Fat Globule Membrane. Nutrients. 2022 Oct 31;14(21):4574. Link  

(3). Ortega-Anaya, J., & Jiménez-Flores, R. (2019). Symposium review: The relevance of bovine milk phospholipids in human nutrition—Evidence of the effect on infant gut and brain development. Journal of dairy science, 102(3), 2738-2748. Link  

(4). Ma Y, Zhang L, Wu Y, Zhou P. Changes in milk fat globule membrane proteome after pasteurization in human, bovine and caprine species. Food Chem. 2019 May 1;279:209-215. Link

(5). Huang, Y., Wei, T., Chen, F., Tan, C., Gong, Z., Wang, F., ... & Li, J. (2023). Effects of various thermal treatments on interfacial composition and physical properties of bovine milk fat globules. Food Research International, 167, 112580. Link  

(6). Singh, H. (2019). Symposium review: Fat globules in milk and their structural modifications during gastrointestinal digestion. Journal of Dairy Science, 102(3), 2749-2759. Link  

(7). Fontecha J, Brink L, Wu S, Pouliot Y, Visioli F, Jiménez-Flores R. Sources, Production, and Clinical Treatments of Milk Fat Globule Membrane for Infant Nutrition and Well-Being. Nutrients. 2020 May 30;12(6):1607. Link  

(8). Duan H, Sun Q, Chen C, Wang R, Yan W. A Review: The Effect of Bovine Colostrum on Immunity in People of All Ages. Nutrients. 2024; 16(13):2007. Link