Infant cereal product

Abstract

The present invention relates to infant cereal products and uses thereof. In particular, the present invention relates to an infant cereal product that contributes to improving digestion, modulating healthy intestinal flora and improving nutrient absorption.

Description

(19) State Intellectual Property Office (12) Invention Patent Application (10) Application Publication Number (43) Application Publication Date (21) Application Number 202410883960.0 (22) Application Date 2024.07.03 (71) Applicant Nestlé Products Ltd. Address Switzerland (72) Inventors Liu Yuchen Lou Binbin Liu Zhongcheng Zhang Jingyu K.Y. Xie Caojing Yang Yanling C.B. B. Walles Palmers (74) Patent Agency Beijing Zhongzi Law Firm 11247 Patent Attorney Li Ying Lin Bainan (51) Int.Cl. A23L 7 / 10 (2016.01) A23L 33 / 115 (2016.01) A23L 33 / 135 (2016.01) A23L 33 / 16 (2016.01) A23L 29 / 00 (2016.01) A23C 9 / 16 (2006.01) (54) Invention Title: Infant Cereal Product (57) Abstract: This invention relates to infant cereal products and their uses. In particular, this invention relates to an infant cereal product that helps improve digestion, regulate healthy gut microbiota, and improve nutrient absorption. Claims: 2 pages Description: 8 pages CN 121264590 A 2026.01.06 CN 1 21 26 45 90 A 1. An infant cereal product comprising: - a quantity of rice flour, on a dry weight basis, between about 65% and about 70% by weight of the infant cereal product; - a quantity of corn oil, on a dry weight basis, between about 5% and about 10% by weight of the infant cereal product; and - a quantity of A2 skimmed milk powder, on a dry weight basis, between about 17.5% and about 22.5% by weight of the infant cereal product.2. The infant cereal product of claim 1, wherein the infant cereal product comprises: - rice cereal in an amount of about 65% to about 70% by weight, based on the dry weight of the infant cereal product; - corn oil in an amount of about 5% to about 10% by weight, based on the dry weight of the infant cereal product; and - A2 skim milk powder in an amount of about 17.5% to about 22.5% by weight, based on the dry weight of the infant cereal product; and one or more of the following: - Bifidobacterium lactis in an amount of about 0.75% to about 1.25% by weight, based on the dry weight of the infant cereal product; - glucosylamylase in an amount of about 0.010% to about 0.015% by weight, based on the dry weight of the infant cereal product; - α-amylase in an amount of about 0.005% to about 0.010% by weight, based on the dry weight of the infant cereal product. - Calcium carbonate in an amount between approximately 1% to approximately 2% by weight of the infant cereal product on a dry weight basis; - Dipotassium hydrogen phosphate (K2HPO4) in an amount between approximately 0.5% to approximately 1.5% by weight of the infant cereal product on a dry weight basis; and / or - Ferric fumarate (II) in an amount between approximately 0.01% to approximately 0.03% by weight of the infant cereal product on a dry weight basis.3. The infant cereal product according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the infant cereal product comprises: - rice cereal in an amount of about 65% to about 70% by weight, based on the dry weight of the infant cereal product; - corn oil in an amount of about 5% to about 10% by weight, based on the dry weight of the infant cereal product; and - A2 skim milk powder in an amount of about 17.5% to about 22.5% by weight, based on the dry weight of the infant cereal product; - Bifidobacterium lactis in an amount of about 0.75% to about 1.25% by weight, based on the dry weight of the infant cereal product; - glucosylamylase in an amount of about 0.010% to about 0.015% by weight, based on the dry weight of the infant cereal product; and - α-amylase in an amount of about 0.005% to about 0.010% by weight, based on the dry weight of the infant cereal product. - Calcium carbonate in an amount between about 1% and about 2% by weight, based on the dry weight of the infant cereal product; - Dipotassium hydrogen phosphate (K₂HPO₄) in an amount between about 0.5% and about 1.5% by weight, based on the dry weight of the infant cereal product; and - Ferrous fumarate (II) in an amount between about 0.01% and about 0.03% by weight, based on the dry weight of the infant cereal product. 4. The infant cereal product according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the infant cereal product comprises: - Rice cereal in an amount between about 65.8% by weight, based on the dry weight of the infant cereal product; - Corn oil in an amount between about 8.7% by weight, based on the dry weight of the infant cereal product; - A2 skimmed milk powder in an amount between about 18.5% by weight, based on the dry weight of the infant cereal product.5. The infant cereal product according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the infant cereal product comprises: - approximately 65.8% by weight of rice cereal on a dry weight basis; - approximately 8.7% by weight of corn oil on a dry weight basis; - approximately 18.5% by weight of A2 skim milk powder on a dry weight basis; and one or more of the following: - approximately 1% by weight of Bifidobacterium lactis on a dry weight basis; - approximately 0.013% by weight of glucosylamylase on a dry weight basis; - approximately 0.007% by weight of α-amylase on a dry weight basis; - approximately 1.5% by weight of calcium carbonate on a dry weight basis; - approximately 1% by weight of dipotassium hydrogen phosphate (K2HPO4) on a dry weight basis. And / or - on a dry weight basis, approximately 0.02% by weight of ferrous fumarate (II) based on the weight of the infant cereal product. 6. The infant cereal product according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the infant cereal product comprises: - approximately 65.8% by weight of rice cereal on a dry weight basis; - approximately 8.7% by weight of corn oil on a dry weight basis; - approximately 18.5% by weight of A2 skim milk powder on a dry weight basis; - approximately 1% by weight of Bifidobacterium lactis on a dry weight basis; - approximately 0.013% by weight of glucosylamylase on a dry weight basis; - approximately 0.007% by weight of α-amylase on a dry weight basis; - approximately 1.5% by weight of calcium carbonate on a dry weight basis; - approximately 1% by weight of dipotassium hydrogen phosphate (K₂HPO₄) on a dry weight basis. And - On a dry weight basis, approximately 0.02% by weight of ferrous fumarate(II) based on the weight of the infant cereal product. 7. The infant cereal product according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the infant cereal product contains less than approximately 6% by weight of water based on the total weight of the infant cereal product, more preferably less than approximately 5% by weight of water, and most preferably less than approximately 3% by weight of water. Claims 2 / 2 pages 3 CN 121264590 A Infant Cereal Product Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an infant cereal product. In particular, the present invention relates to an infant cereal product that helps improve digestion, regulate healthy gut microbiota, and improve nutrient absorption.Background Art

[0002] Newborns are typically breastfed or fed liquid infant formula that is as close as possible to the contents of breast milk. Breastfeeding and / or feeding of infant formula usually continues for the first year of an infant's life.

[0003] However, typically between 4 and 6 months, infants develop an interest in other foods and prepare to eat them. This is marked by the infant beginning to be able to sit and control head movements. It is able to move food from the front to the back of the mouth, so that the coordination of the tongue allows the infant to swallow from a spoon. The introduction of solid foods is important for the infant to establish a positive relationship with food. This is a first step for the growing infant and for developing lifelong healthy eating habits.

[0004] Infant cereals help infants experience taste, texture, and nutrition, and provide an important source of energy, carbohydrates, protein, vitamins, and minerals. The typical protein source in infant cereals is in the form of milk powder.

[0005] Casein constitutes a significant percentage of the proteins present in milk. Three major subgroups of casein have been identified: α-casein, β-casein, and κ-casein. β-casein is known to exist in two main forms: A1 β-casein and A2 β-casein. The difference between these two forms lies in the amino acid present at position 67. In the A1 form, histidine is present at this position, while in the A2 form, proline is present at this position. Most dairy cows produce milk containing a mixture of A1 and A2 β-caseins.

[0006] The presence of histidine at position 67 in A1 β-casein makes this form readily susceptible to proteolytic cleavage, resulting in the release of short β-casein opioid peptides (BCMs) during digestion, including a peptide known as BCM-7. Previous studies have shown that such BCMs are pro-inflammatory and may affect digestive function. However, research in this area is ongoing.

[0007] Against this backdrop, the inventors of the present invention have discovered that infant cereal products containing A2 milk protein sources (i.e., milk protein sources with significantly reduced amounts of A1 β-casein or without A1 β-casein) can alleviate symptoms of intestinal discomfort, improve digestion, and promote overall gut health.

[0008] According to one aspect of the invention, an infant cereal product is provided, comprising:

[0009] - rice flour in an amount between about 65% by weight and about 70% by weight, based on the dry weight of the infant cereal product;

[0010] - corn oil in an amount between about 5% by weight and about 10% by weight, based on the dry weight of the infant cereal product; and

[0011] - A2 skim milk powder in an amount between about 17.5% by weight and about 22.5% by weight, based on the dry weight of the infant cereal product.

[0012] Any milk protein source containing A2 β-casein can be used.In some embodiments, the milk protein source is A2 skim milk powder. (Page 1 / 8, CN 121264590 A)

[0013] The infant cereal product may also contain other ingredients, such as vitamins and minerals, probiotics, and amylases. Detailed Description

[0014] Definition of Terms

[0015] The term "infant cereal product" refers to food for infants and young children. According to Codex STAN 074-1981 and EU Directive 2006 / 125 / EC: "whole infant cereal" is defined as "a cereal fortified with high-protein foods that is to be or must be prepared for consumption with water or other suitable protein-free liquids," which differs from "standard infant cereal," which is "to be or must be prepared for consumption with milk or other suitable nutrient liquids."

[0016] Table 1: Definitions of two groups of processed cereal-based products for infants and young children and their reconstitution into semi-liquid foods

[0017]

[0018] In one embodiment of the invention, the finished product may be based on whole or standard infant cereal products as described above. In one embodiment, the finished product is a powder or (as defined above) a semi-liquid food. Preferably, the infant cereal product is in powder form. More preferably, the infant cereal product of the present invention is a whole infant cereal powder, wherein only water is required to reconstitute it.

[0019] The infant cereal product of the present invention preferably contains less than about 6% by weight of water, more preferably less than about 5% by weight of water, and more preferably less than about 3% by weight of water.

[0020] The “infant cereal product” of the present invention generally contains a carbohydrate source, a protein source, and a lipid source. The infant cereal product may further contain a number of other ingredients, including fortified vitamins and minerals, probiotics, and enzymes.

[0021] The term “degree of hydrolysis” or “DH” for proteins refers to the number of peptide bonds in a whole protein that are cleaved during hydrolysis divided by the total number of peptide bonds in the whole protein, expressed as a percentage. The degree of hydrolysis can be measured according to the TNBS method of Adler-Nissen (J. Agric. Food. Chem. 27:1256-1262, 1979).

[0022] As used herein, the term "starch-degrading enzyme" refers to any enzyme capable of converting starch into dextrins and sugars (monosaccharides or disaccharides). Examples of starch-degrading enzymes include amylases, glucosylamylases, and amylopectinases. Preferred examples of amylases include α-amylases, β-amylases, and γ-amylases.Instructions 2 / 8 pages 5 CN 121264590 A

[0023] For the purposes of this invention, the term "probiotic" is defined as "a microbial cell preparation or microbial cell component that has a beneficial effect on the health or comfort of the host" (Salminen S, Ouwehand A. Benno Y. et al. "Probiotics: how should they be defined" Trends Food Sci. Technol. 1999: 10 107-10).

[0024] The term "non-replicative" as used in this invention refers to viable cells and / or colony-forming units that cannot be detected by classical plate inoculation methods. Such classical plate inoculation methods are summarized in the microbiology book: James Monroe Jay, Martin J. Loessner, David A. Golden. 2005. Modern food microbiology. 7th edition, Springer Science, New York, NY 790p. Typically, the absence of live cells can be seen as follows: no visible colonies on agar plates or no increase in turbidity in liquid growth media after inoculation with bacterial preparations of different concentrations (“non-replicating” samples) and incubation under appropriate conditions (aerobic and / or anaerobic atmosphere for at least 24 hours).

[0025] The term “A2 milk” generally refers to various types of bovine milk that are primarily lacking in the form of A1 β-casein but primarily contain the form of A2 β-casein. A2 bovine milk is available from a2 Milk Company (Auckland, New Zealand). Non-cow milk, including milk from humans, sheep, goats, donkeys, yaks, camels, buffaloes, etc., also primarily contains A2 β-casein, and therefore the term “A2 milk” is also used in this case. Preferably, “A2 milk” refers to dairy products in which A2 β-casein constitutes more than 50% of the total β-casein, preferably more than 70%, more preferably more than 90%, even more preferably 95%, or most preferably 99%. The term “A2 skim milk powder” refers to skim milk powder derived from A2 milk.

[0026] The term “A2 β-casein” refers to the A2 variant (secretory form) of bovine β-casein having the amino acid sequence according to SEQ ID NO.1. In this document, other β-casein variants containing proline at position 67 are included in the definition of “A2 β-casein”.

[0027] The term “A1 β-casein” refers to the A1 variant (secretory form) of bovine β-casein having the amino acid sequence according to SEQ ID NO.2.The only difference between SEQ ID No. 1 and SEQ ID No. 2 is that A1β-casein contains histidine at position 67, while A2β-casein contains proline at position 67. Other β-casein variants containing histidine at position 67 are included in the definition of “A1β-casein” herein.

[0028] Various preferred features and embodiments of the invention are now described by way of non-limiting examples. Those skilled in the art will understand that they can combine all the features of the invention disclosed herein without departing from the scope of the disclosed invention.

[0029] Any reference to prior art literature in this specification should not be construed as an admission that such prior art is widely known or constitutes part of common general knowledge in the art. All publications mentioned in this specification are incorporated herein by reference.

[0030] As used herein, the words “comprising” and similar terms should not be interpreted in an exclusive or exhaustive sense. In other words, they are intended to mean “including but not limited to”. The terms “comprising” and similar terms also include the term “consisting of”.

[0031] Unless otherwise stated, the practice of the invention will take place using conventional techniques within the capabilities of those skilled in the art. These techniques are explained in the literature. Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art.

[0032] Unless otherwise stated, numerical ranges include the numerical values ​​that define the range, and all percentages disclosed herein are on a w / w basis. When the components of an infant cereal product are given as weight % values ​​on a dry weight basis, these are relative to the dry weight of the infant cereal product, i.e., without taking into account any water or moisture that may be present in the product.

[0033] As used herein, the term “about” means approximately, around, roughly, or nearby. When the term “about” is used in conjunction with a numerical value or range, it modifies the numerical value or range by extending the boundaries above and below the given numerical value. Generally, the terms “about” and “approximately” are used herein to modify numerical values ​​as being 10% above and below the specified numerical value.

[0034] In another particularly preferred embodiment, the infant cereal product comprises: (Instruction manual, pages 3 / 8, 6 CN 121264590 A)

[0035] - Rice cereal, on a dry weight basis, in an amount between about 65% by weight and about 70% by weight based on the weight of the infant cereal product;

[0036] - Corn oil, on a dry weight basis, in an amount between about 5% by weight and about 10% by weight based on the weight of the infant cereal product; and

[0037] - A2 skim milk powder, on a dry weight basis, in an amount between about 17.5% by weight and about 22.5% by weight based on the weight of the infant cereal product;

[0038] and one or more of the following:

[0039] - Bifidobacterium lactis, on a dry weight basis, in an amount between about 0.75% by weight and about 1.25% by weight based on the weight of the infant cereal product;

[0040] - Corn oil, on a dry weight basis, in an amount between about 0% by weight and about 10% by weight based on the weight of the infant cereal product;

[0041] - α-amylase in an amount between 0.010 wt% and about 0.015 wt% based on the weight of the infant cereal product on a dry weight basis;

[0042] - calcium carbonate in an amount between 1 wt% and about 2 wt% based on the weight of the infant cereal product on a dry weight basis;

[0043] - dipotassium hydrogen phosphate (K2HPO4) in an amount between 0.5 wt% and about 1.5 wt% based on the weight of the infant cereal product on a dry weight basis; and / or

[0044] - ferric fumarate (II) in an amount between 0.01 wt% and about 0.03 wt% based on the weight of the infant cereal product on a dry weight basis.

[0045] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the infant cereal product comprises:

[0046] - rice cereal in an amount between about 65% by weight and about 70% by weight, based on the dry weight of the infant cereal product;

[0047] - corn oil in an amount between about 5% by weight and about 10% by weight, based on the dry weight of the infant cereal product; and

[0048] - A2 skim milk powder in an amount between about 17.5% by weight and about 22.5% by weight, based on the dry weight of the infant cereal product;

[0049] - Bifidobacterium lactis in an amount between about 0.75% by weight and about 1.25% by weight, based on the dry weight of the infant cereal product;

[0050] - glucosyl amylase in an amount between about 0.010% by weight and about 0.015% by weight, based on the dry weight of the infant cereal product;

[0051] - corn oil in an amount between about 0% by weight and about 17.5% by weight, based on the dry weight of the infant cereal product;

[0052] - α-amylase in an amount between 0.005 wt% and about 0.010 wt%; - calcium carbonate in an amount between about 1 wt% and about 2 wt% based on the weight of the infant cereal product on a dry weight basis;

[0053] - dipotassium hydrogen phosphate (K2HPO4) in an amount between about 0.5 wt% and about 1.5 wt% based on the weight of the infant cereal product on a dry weight basis; and

[0054] - ferric fumarate (II) in an amount between about 0.01 wt% and about 0.03 wt% based on the weight of the infant cereal product on a dry weight basis.

[0055] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the infant cereal product comprises: (Instruction manual, pages 4 / 8, CN 121264590 A)

[0056] - approximately 65.8% by weight of rice cereal based on the dry weight of the infant cereal product;

[0057] - approximately 8.7% by weight of corn oil based on the dry weight of the infant cereal product;

[0058] - approximately 18.5% by weight of A2 skimmed milk powder based on the dry weight of the infant cereal product.

[0059] In another particularly preferred embodiment, the infant cereal product comprises:

[0060] - approximately 65.8% by weight of rice cereal on a dry weight basis, based on the weight of the infant cereal product;

[0061] - approximately 8.7% by weight of corn oil on a dry weight basis, based on the weight of the infant cereal product;

[0062] - approximately 18.5% by weight of A2 skim milk powder on a dry weight basis, based on the weight of the infant cereal product;

[0063] and one or more of the following:

[0064] - approximately 1% by weight of Bifidobacterium lactis on a dry weight basis, based on the weight of the infant cereal product;

[0065] - approximately 0.013% by weight of glucosylamylase on a dry weight basis, based on the weight of the infant cereal product;

[0066] - approximately 0.007% by weight of α-amylase on a dry weight basis, based on the weight of the infant cereal product;

[0067] - Calcium carbonate in an amount of approximately 1.5% by weight based on the weight of the infant cereal product on a dry weight basis;

[0068] - Dipotassium hydrogen phosphate (K2HPO4) in an amount of approximately 1% by weight based on the weight of the infant cereal product on a dry weight basis; and / or

[0069] - Ferric fumarate (II) in an amount of approximately 0.02% by weight based on the weight of the infant cereal product on a dry weight basis.

[0070] In another particularly preferred embodiment, the infant cereal product comprises:

[0071] - approximately 65.8% by weight of rice cereal on a dry weight basis, based on the weight of the infant cereal product;

[0072] - approximately 8.7% by weight of corn oil on a dry weight basis, based on the weight of the infant cereal product;

[0073] - approximately 18.5% by weight of A2 skim milk powder on a dry weight basis, based on the weight of the infant cereal product;

[0074] - approximately 1% by weight of Bifidobacterium lactis on a dry weight basis, based on the weight of the infant cereal product;

[0075] - approximately 0.013% by weight of glucosylamylase on a dry weight basis, based on the weight of the infant cereal product;

[0076] - approximately 0.007% by weight of α-amylase on a dry weight basis, based on the weight of the infant cereal product;

[0077] - approximately 1.5% by weight of calcium carbonate on a dry weight basis, based on the weight of the infant cereal product;

[0078] - On a dry weight basis, approximately 1% by weight of dipotassium hydrogen phosphate (K2HPO4) based on the weight of the infant cereal product; and

[0079] - On a dry weight basis, approximately 0.02% by weight of ferrous fumarate(II) based on the weight of the infant cereal product.

[0080] Milk protein source containing A2β-casein

[0081] The infant cereal product according to the invention contains a milk protein source containing A2β-casein.Preferably, the milk protein source is a bovine milk protein source.

[0082] Milk protein sources based on, for example, whey, casein, and mixtures thereof can be used. In one embodiment, the protein content is 30% to 80% whey protein. As for whey protein, the protein source can be based on acid whey or sweet whey or mixtures thereof, and can include any desired proportion of α-lactalbumin and β-lactoglobulin. Specification 5 / 8 pages 8 CN 121264590 A

[0083] For casein protein, the A1 / A2β-casein ratio is generally important. Specifically, A2β-casein (SEQ ID NO 1) can constitute more than 50% by weight, preferably more than 70% by weight, more preferably more than 90% by weight, even more preferably more than 95% by weight, still more preferably more than 99% by weight, and most preferably 100% by weight of the total β-casein present in infant cereal products. Thus, according to one embodiment of the invention, A2β-casein constitutes more than 50% by weight of the total β-casein. According to another embodiment of the invention, A2 β-casein constitutes more than 70% by weight of the total β-casein. According to a further embodiment of the invention, A2 β-casein constitutes more than 80% by weight of the total β-casein. According to another embodiment of the invention, A2 β-casein constitutes more than 90% by weight of the total β-casein. According to yet another embodiment of the invention, A2 β-casein constitutes more than 95% by weight of the total β-casein. According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, A2 β-casein constitutes more than 99% by weight of the total β-casein, more preferably 100% by weight.

[0084] Preferably, the infant cereal product contains less than 10%, preferably less than 5%, more preferably less than 1% A1 β-casein by weight of the total β-casein in the infant cereal product.

[0085] In one embodiment, the milk protein source is in the form of free-flowing particles or agglomerated particles. In another embodiment, the milk protein source is milk powder having non-adhesive particles or agglomerated particles with a particle size of less than 0.5 mm. In a preferred embodiment, the milk protein source is A2 milk powder, more preferably A2 skim milk powder.

[0086] The milk protein source can be whole, or completely or partially hydrolyzed. Preferably, the protein in the milk protein source is whole.

[0087] If protein hydrolysis is required, the hydrolysis process can be carried out as needed and as is known in the art. Protein hydrolysis is well known and can be carried out by many different methods, such as enzymatic hydrolysis by stimulating the naturally occurring hydrolysis process with an enzyme such as trypsin. Hydrolysis can also be carried out by prolonged boiling in a strong acid or strong base. In this invention, partially hydrolyzed proteins can be produced by any suitable method known in the art.For example, whey protein hydrolysates can be prepared by enzymatically hydrolyzing whey fractions in two steps as described in EP 0322589 A1. For a wide range of hydrolyzed proteins, the whey protein can be triple-hydrolyzed first using 2.4 L of the enzyme Alcalase (EC 940459), then using 0.5 L of Neutrase (neutral enzyme), and then using trypsin at a temperature of approximately 55°C.

[0088] If the whey fraction used as the starting material is essentially lactose-free, it has been found that the protein undergoes much less lysine blockage during hydrolysis. This allows the degree of lysine blockage to be reduced from approximately 15% by weight of total lysine to less than approximately 10% by weight of lysine; for example, approximately 7% by weight of lysine, which greatly improves the nutritional quality of the milk protein source.

[0089] The protein in infant cereal products can be hydrolyzed, fully hydrolyzed, or partially hydrolyzed. Specifically, the degree of hydrolysis (DH) of the protein can be between about 2% and about 80%, preferably between about 8% and about 60%, more preferably between about 10% and 40%, and even more preferably between about 15% and 25%. Particularly preferred is a degree of hydrolysis between 15% and 19%.

[0090] Without being bound by theory, but considering that the degree of hydrolysis of milk protein sources may affect the antigenicity of the protein source and its ability to induce tolerance to bovine milk proteins. Preferably, the residual allergenicity of partially hydrolyzed milk proteins is at most 1 / 100 of that of intact (i.e., unhydrolyzed) proteins. The residual allergenicity of partially hydrolyzed milk proteins can be measured by the technique described by Fritsche et al. (Int. Arch. Aller and Appl Imm., 93, 289-293, 1990). Such partially hydrolyzed milk proteins and products containing them can be described as low allergenicity according to EU Directive 96 / 4 / EC.

[0091] In one embodiment of the invention, the infant cereal product may contain both a partially hydrolyzed milk protein source and another protein source containing complete proteins. For example, the protein source may contain both complete proteins and, as described on page 6 / 8 of the specification (CN 121264590 A), partially hydrolyzed proteins, such as whey protein isolate. Furthermore, the composition or infant formula according to the invention may contain partially hydrolyzed protein hydrolysate and another protein source containing complete proteins. For example, partially hydrolyzed whey protein isolate and skim milk protein.

[0092] Carbohydrate Source

[0093] The infant cereal product according to the invention also contains rice flour as a carbohydrate source.

[0094] In the invention, the carbohydrate source may be whole grain or refined rice flour derived from rice or rice starch.

[0095] Lipid Source

[0096] The infant cereal product according to the invention contains corn oil as a lipid source.

[0097] Other Components

[0098] As described above, the infant cereal product of the invention contains a carbohydrate source, a lipid source, and a milk protein source comprising A2β-casein. The infant cereal composition may contain other ingredients, such as one or more vitamins and minerals, one or more probiotics, and one or more starch-degrading enzymes.

[0099] The infant cereal product of the invention may also contain all vitamins and minerals considered essential in a daily diet and in amounts with nutritional value. Minimum requirements have been established for certain vitamins and minerals. Examples of minerals, vitamins, and other nutrients optionally present in the infant cereal products of the present invention include vitamin A, vitamin B1, vitamin B2, vitamin B3, vitamin B6, vitamin B12, vitamin E, vitamin K1, vitamin K2, vitamin C, vitamin D, folic acid, inositol, niacin, biotin, pantothenic acid, choline, calcium, phosphorus, iodine, iron, magnesium, copper, zinc, manganese, chlorine, potassium, sodium, selenium, chromium, molybdenum, taurine, and L-carnitine. Minerals are typically added in the form of salts. The presence and amount of specific minerals and other vitamins will vary depending on the intended population.

[0100] The infant cereal composition may also contain one or more probiotics. Such probiotics can help maintain a healthy gut microbiota in infants, support their immune system, and generally support healthy growth and development.

[0101] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the infant cereal product contains Bifidobacterium lactis. Various traits of Bifidobacterium lactis HN019 that are important for its ability to exert probiotic effects have been studied (see, for example, Sanders, ME., 2006. Journal of Clinical Gastroenterology, 40(9), pp. 776-783). In particular, Bifidobacterium lactis has been identified as having many beneficial effects, including infection prevention; promoting a healthy gut microbiota; reducing whole gut transit time; and enhancing immune function.

[0102] The use of non-replicating microbes offers several advantages, including the potential for use in immunocompromised infants, where the use of live probiotics may be inappropriate. Furthermore, the use of non-replicating microbes allows the infant cereal product to be heat-reconstituted while maintaining its health benefits to the infant. Probiotics can be made non-replicating by any method known in the art, such as by heat treatment, gamma irradiation, ultraviolet light, or the use of chemical agents (formalin, paraformaldehyde).

[0103] The infant cereal product may also contain one or more starch-degrading enzymes. Such enzymes break down starch and can help reduce the viscosity of the product.The one or more starch-degrading enzymes may be selected from glucosylamylase, α-amylase, and mixtures thereof.

[0104] On a dry weight basis, the infant cereal product may contain between about 0.005% by weight and about 1% by weight, preferably between about 0.01% by weight and about 0.1% by weight, and most preferably about 0.02% by weight of the one or more starch-degrading enzymes.

[0105] Preparation of the Composition

[0106] The infant cereal product according to the invention may be prepared by any known or other suitable means.

[0107] For example, the infant cereal composition may be manufactured by blending a carbohydrate source, a lipid source, and a milk protein source together in appropriate proportions. If an emulsifier is used, the emulsifier may be included at this stage. Vitamins and minerals (and any other ingredients, as specified on pages 7 / 8 of the specification, CN 121264590 A) may be added at this stage, but may also be added later to avoid thermal degradation.

[0108] Examples

[0109] The invention is further described with reference to the following examples. It should be understood that the claimed invention is not intended to be limited in any way by these examples.

[0110] Example 1

[0111] An example of preparing an infant cereal product according to the invention to be reconstituted in water according to the following formulation:

[0112]

[0113] Although the invention has been described by way of example, it should be understood that variations and modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the claims. Furthermore, where known equivalents of a particular feature exist, these equivalents are incorporated, as specifically mentioned in this specification.

[0114] Sequence

[0115] SEQ ID NO.1 (Amino acid sequence of A2β-casein):

[0116] RELEELNVPGEIVESLSSSEESITRINKKIEKFQSEEQQQTEDELQDKI

[0117] HPFAQTQSLVYPFPGPIPNSLPQNIPPLTQTPVVVPPFLQPEVMGVSK

[0118] VKEAMAPKHKEMPFPKYPVEPFTESQSLTLTDVENLHLPLPLLQSW

[0119] MHQPHQPLPPTVMFPPQSVLSLSQSKVLPVPQKAVPYPQRDMPIQA

[0120] FLLYQEPVLGPVRGPFPIIV

[0121] SEQ ID NO.2 (Amino acid sequence of A1β-casein):

[0122] RELEELNVPGEIVESLSSSEESITRINKKIEKFQSEEQQQTEDELQDKI

[0123] HPFAQTQSLVYPFPGPIHNSLPQNIPPLTQTPVVVPPFLQPEVMGVS

[0124] KVKEAMAPKHKEMPFPKYPVEPFTESQSLTLTDVENLHLPLPLLQS

[0125] WMHQPHQPLPPTVMFPPQSVLSLSQSKVLPVPQKAVPYPQRDMPI

[0126] QAFLLYQEPVLGPVRGPFPIIV Instructions 8 / 8 Page 11 CN 121264590 A PH 260198 CN202410883960.0 PH 260198 Title: INFANT CEREAL PRODUCT The present invention relates to infant cereal products and uses thereof. In particular, the present invention relates to an infant cereal product that Contributes to improving digestion, modulating healthy intestinal flora and improving nutrient absorption. This invention relates to infant cereal products and their uses.In particular, this invention relates to an infant cereal product that helps improve digestion, regulate healthy gut microbiota, and improve nutrient absorption. Abstract.

Claims

1. An infant cereal product comprising: - rice flour in an amount of between about 65 wt% and about 70 wt% based on the weight of the infant cereal product on a dry weight basis; - corn oil in an amount of between about 5 wt% and about 10 wt% based on the weight of the infant cereal product on a dry weight basis; and - A2 skimmed milk powder in an amount of between about 17.5 wt% and about 22.5 wt% based on the weight of the infant cereal product on a dry weight basis.

2. The infant cereal product according to claim 1, wherein the infant cereal product comprises: - rice flour in an amount of between about 65 wt% and about 70 wt% based on the weight of the infant cereal product on a dry weight basis; and - A2 skimmed milk powder in an amount of between about 17.5 wt% and about 22.5 wt% based on the weight of the infant cereal product on a dry weight basis, - corn oil in an amount of between about 5 wt.% and about 10 wt.% based on the weight of the infant cereal product on a dry weight basis; and one or more of: - Bifidobacterium lactis in an amount of between about 0.75 wt% and about 1.25 wt% based on the weight of the infant cereal product on a dry weight basis; - glucoamylase in an amount of between about 0.010 wt% and about 0.015 wt% based on the weight of the infant cereal product on a dry weight basis; - alpha amylase in an amount of between about 0.005 wt% and about 0.010 wt% based on the weight of the infant cereal product on a dry weight basis; - calcium carbonate in an amount of between about 1 wt% and about 2 wt% based on the weight of the infant cereal product on a dry weight basis; - dipotassium hydrogen phosphate (K2HPO4) in an amount of between about 0.5 wt% and about 1.5 wt% based on the weight of the infant cereal product on a dry weight basis; and / or - iron (II) fumarate in an amount of between about 0.01 wt% and about 0.03 wt% based on the weight of the infant cereal product on a dry weight basis.

3. The infant cereal product according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the infant cereal product comprises: - rice flour in an amount of between about 65 wt% and about 70 wt% based on the weight of the infant cereal product on a dry weight basis; and - A2 skimmed milk powder in an amount of between about 17.5 wt% and about 22.5 wt% based on the weight of the infant cereal product on a dry weight basis; - Bifidobacterium lactis in an amount of between about 0.75 wt% and about 1.25 wt% based on the weight of the infant cereal product on a dry weight basis; - corn oil in an amount of between about 5 wt.% and about 10 wt.% based on the weight of the infant cereal product on a dry weight basis; - glucoamylase in an amount of between about 0.010 wt% and about 0.015 wt% based on the weight of the infant cereal product on a dry weight basis; - alpha amylase in an amount of between about 0.005 wt% and about 0.010 wt% based on the weight of the infant cereal product on a dry weight basis; - calcium carbonate in an amount of between about 1 wt% and about 2 wt% based on the weight of the infant cereal product on a dry weight basis; - dipotassium hydrogen phosphate (K2HPO4) in an amount of between about 0.5 wt% and about 1.5 wt% based on the weight of the infant cereal product on a dry weight basis; and - iron (II) fumarate in an amount of between about 0.01 wt% and about 0.03 wt% based on the weight of the infant cereal product on a dry weight basis. ​ ​ ​ - iron (II) fumarate in an amount of between about 0.01 wt% and about 0.03 wt% based on the weight of the infant cereal product on a dry weight basis.

4. The infant cereal product according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the infant cereal product comprises: - rice flour in an amount of about 65.8 wt% based on the weight of the infant cereal product on a dry weight basis; - corn oil in an amount of about 8.7 wt% based on the weight of the infant cereal product on a dry weight basis; - A2 skimmed milk powder in an amount of about 18.5 wt% based on the weight of the infant cereal product on a dry weight basis.

5. The infant cereal product according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the infant cereal product comprises: - rice flour in an amount of about 65.8 wt% based on the weight of the infant cereal product on a dry weight basis; - corn oil in an amount of about 8.7 wt% based on the weight of the infant cereal product on a dry weight basis; - A2 skimmed milk powder in an amount of about 18.5 wt% based on the weight of the infant cereal product on a dry weight basis; and one or more of: - Bifidobacterium lactis in an amount of about 1 wt% based on the weight of the infant cereal product on a dry weight basis; - glucoamylase in an amount of about 0.013 wt% based on the weight of the infant cereal product on a dry weight basis; - alpha amylase in an amount of about 0.007 wt% based on the weight of the infant cereal product on a dry weight basis; - calcium carbonate in an amount of about 1.5 wt% based on the weight of the infant cereal product on a dry weight basis; - dipotassium hydrogen phosphate (K2HP04) in an amount of about 1 wt% based on the weight of the infant cereal product on a dry weight basis; and / or - iron (II) fumarate in an amount of about 0.02 wt% based on the weight of the infant cereal product on a dry weight basis.

6. The infant cereal product according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the infant cereal product comprises: - rice flour in an amount of about 65.8 wt% based on the weight of the infant cereal product on a dry weight basis; - corn oil in an amount of about 8.7 wt% based on the weight of the infant cereal product on a dry weight basis; - A2 skimmed milk powder in an amount of about 18.5 wt% based on the weight of the infant cereal product on a dry weight basis; - Bifidobacterium lactis in an amount of about 1 wt% based on the weight of the infant cereal product on a dry weight basis; - glucoamylase in an amount of about 0.013 wt% based on the weight of the infant cereal product on a dry weight basis; - alpha amylase in an amount of about 0.007 wt% based on the weight of the infant cereal product on a dry weight basis; - calcium carbonate in an amount of about 1.5 wt% based on the weight of the infant cereal product on a dry weight basis; - dipotassium hydrogen phosphate (K2HP04) in an amount of about 1 wt% based on the weight of the infant cereal product on a dry weight basis; and - iron (II) fumarate in an amount of about 0.02 wt% based on the weight of the infant cereal product on a dry weight basis.

7. The infant cereal product of any of the preceding claims, wherein the infant cereal product comprises less than about 6 wt.% water, more preferably less than about 5 wt.% water, most preferably less than about 3 wt.% water, by weight of the total infant cereal product.