Milk-based composition comprising GOS for increasing absorption of iron

Abstract

Methods and compositions increase iron absorption, for example by increasing iron absorbability and / or increasing iron bioavailability. A method for increasing iron absorption, preferably naturally present in plant-based food, meal or diet, includes administering to an individual in need thereof a milk-based composition galactooligosaccharide (GOS), preferably a low sugar low lactose milk composition comprising galactooligosaccharide (GOS). The individual, to whom the milk-based composition is administered, may be chosen from adults; older adults; pregnant or lactating women; menopausal or perimenopausal women, infants; children; and subjects consuming a vegetarian diet, a flexitarian diet, a vegan diet or any type of plant-based diet.

Description

TITLECOMPOSITIONS AND METHODS FOR INCREASING ABSORPTION OF IRONTECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to compositions and methods for increasing absorption of iron, such as iron naturally present in food or a diet, wherein the source of iron is combined with the composition and / or consumed separately from the composition. Some embodiments are directed to a composition comprising milk protein and further comprising a mixture of lactose, glucose, galactose and galactooligosaccharide (GOS).BACKGROUND

[0002] Iron is an essential mineral that plays a crucial role in the body. It is necessary for the production of hemoglobin, a protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body.

[0003] The prevalence of iron deficiency and iron deficiency anemia is still high in some countries and could increase with the emergence of vegetarian diet or plant-based diet in some others. The etiology of iron deficiency is diverse. Among other causes, it can be due to a lack of intake, but also because of poor absorption, especially when from plant origin.

[0004] There is thus a need for providing a nutritional composition to increase absorption of iron naturally present in the diet.SUMMARY

[0005] The experimental data disclosed herein shows that a food product containing milk and galactooligosaccharide (GOS) can improve the iron absorption naturally present in food products. This effect was not expected, because GOS alone does not increase the absorption of all types of iron fortificants. The chemical form of iron naturally present in food is not similar to the chemical form of iron used for food fortification.

[0006] Accordingly, embodiments of the present disclosure concern methods and / or compositions for increasing absorption of iron, preferably comprising at least one of increasing iron absorbability and / or increasing iron bioavailability. In specific embodiments, the level of iron in an individual is increased, upon which a medical condition or physical state is thereby treated, prevented, or has a delay in onset.

[0007] In particular embodiments, a method for increasing absorption of iron preferably comprising at least one of increasing iron absorbability and / or increasing iron bioavailability, includes administering to an individual in need thereof, a milk-based composition comprising galactooligosaccharide, preferably a low sugar, low lactose, milkbased composition comprising galactooligosaccharide.

[0008] In an embodiment, the composition comprises milk protein, preferably at 20- 40 % by dry weight of the composition; and a mixture of lactose, glucose, galactose and galactooligosaccharide, the mixture preferably at 35-55% or 32-55%, by dry weight of the composition; preferably, the mixture comprising: 0.1-30% by weight of the lactose, 8-40% by weight of the glucose, 0.1-20% by weight of the galactose and 40-90% by weight of the galactooligosaccharide.

[0009] Optionally the milk-based composition can include at least a portion of the iron for which absorption is increased, but in some embodiments, at least a portion of the iron for which absorption is increased is consumed in a separate distinct composition. For example, at least a portion of the iron for which absorption is increased may be administered in a separate composition distinct from the milk-based composition comprising galactooligosaccharide (e.g., distinct from the low sugar, low lactose, milk-based composition comprising galactooligosaccharide). For example, at least a portion of the iron for which absorption is increased may be consumed at least partially concurrently and / or at least partially sequentially as consumption of the milk-based composition comprising galactooligosaccharide (which is preferably a low sugar, low lactose, milk-based composition comprising galactooligosaccharide).

[0010] Preferably at least a portion of the iron for which absorption is increased is naturally occurring in food or a diet, wherein the food or diet is combined with the composition and / or consumed separately from the composition. More preferably at least about 2 wt.%, at least about 5 wt.%, at least about 10 wt.%, at least about 20 wt.%, at least about 30 wt.%, at least about 40 wt.%, at least 50 wt.%, at least about 60 wt.%, at least about 70 wt.%, at least about 80 wt.%, at least about 90 wt.% or even about 100 wt.% of the total iron for which absorption is increased is naturally occurring in food or a diet, wherein the food or diet is combined with the composition and / or consumed separately from the composition.

[0011] The increased iron absorption may provide at least one result selected from the group consisting of: (a) treating, preventing, or reducing risk, incidence, severity and / or duration of iron deficiency and / or iron deficiency anemia; (b) increased energy production; (c) maintained or improved cognitive function; (d) enhanced immune function; (e) reduced risk ofpregnancy complications such as preterm birth, low birth weight, and developmental issues in the baby; (f) maintained or improved muscle function; (g) maintained or improved concentration and focus; (h) reduction of tiredness and fatigue; (i) supports bone health and (j) combinations thereof.

[0012] The composition may further comprise 0.5-30% by dry weight of at least one of milk fat or mineral derived from milk, preferably a combination thereof. The composition may further comprise 5-20% by dry weight of vegetable oil.

[0013] The embodiments disclosed herein each include one or more advantageous features not provided by the compositions and methods of “Methods of Use of Oligosaccharide Compositions For Modulating Microbiota And Their Metabolic Products, And As Therapeutics For Health Application,” International Patent Publication No. WO2022 / 241163, by Amicucci et al.; “Process For Preparing Enzymatically-Treated Food Compositions With Gos And Low Lactose Content And Food Compositions Thereof,” International Patent Publication No. W02023 / 057540, by Sabine et al.; “Milk Oligosaccharide Galactooligosaccharide Composition For Infant Formula Containing The Soluble Oligosaccharide Fraction Present In Milk, And Having A Low Level Of Monosaccharides, And A Process To Produce The Composition,” U.S. Patent Publication No. 2014 / 0087021, by Berrocal Rafael et al.; “Synthetic composition for treating metabolic disorders,” U.S. Patent No. 11,529,364, by Elison et al.; “Immune system stimulating nutrition,” U.S. Patent No. 10,124,016, by Potappel-Van’T Land Belinda et al.; “Milk products comprising high amounts of galactooligosaccharides (gos) and their production,” European Patent No. 3624594, by Tams J. W.; and “Enzymatic conversion of milk lactose to prebiotic galactooligosaccharides to produce low lactose yogurt,” by Raza, Iqbal, Ullah, Khan, and Imran in J Food Process Preserv. 2018; 42:el3586. https: / / doi.org / 10. I l l 1 / jfpp.13586.

[0014] Additional features and advantages are described herein and will be apparent from the following Figures and Detailed Description.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0015] FIG. 1 shows comparison of in vitro iron absorption ratio (i.e., of Ferritin normalized for protein expressed by the cells) of each tested condition to the control (CTRL). CTRL stands for the vegetable tested alone, or mixed with a galactooligosaccharide (GOS) of high purity (i.e. 97.5%), or mixed with the composition (COMP). Conditions are significantly different if their difference is larger than Fisher’s Least Significant Difference (LSD) withsignificance level alpha=5%. Error bars show Mean+ / -LSD / 2 so that two conditions are significantly different (p-value<0.05) if their error bars do not overlap.

[0016] FIG. 2 shows effect of the increased dose of the composition (COMP) on iron naturally present in the control (CTRL). Presented data are in vitro iron absorption ratio (i.e., of Ferritin normalized for protein expressed by the cells) of each tested condition to the control (CTRL). CTRL stands for the vegetable tested alone. In COMP -low and COMP -High condition, the weight ratio (g / mg) between GOS and natural iron from the CTRL was 2.5 to 1 and 5: 1, respectively. Conditions are significantly different if their difference is larger than Fisher’ s Least Significant Difference (LSD) with significance level alpha=5%. Error bars show Mean+ / -LSD / 2 so that two conditions are significantly different (p-value<0.05) if their error bars do not overlap.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0017] Definitions

[0018] Some definitions are provided hereafter. Nevertheless, definitions may be located in the “Embodiments” section below, and the above header “Definitions” does not mean that such disclosures in the “Embodiments” section are not definitions.

[0019] All percentages expressed herein are by weight of the total weight of the composition unless expressed otherwise. As used herein, “about,” “approximately” and “substantially” are understood to refer to numbers in a range of numerals, for example the range of -10% to +10% of the referenced number, preferably -5% to +5% of the referenced number, more preferably -1% to +1% of the referenced number, most preferably -0.1% to +0.1% of the referenced number. All numerical ranges herein should be understood to include all integers, whole or fractions, within the range. Moreover, these numerical ranges should be construed as providing support for a claim directed to any number or subset of numbers in that range. For example, a disclosure of from 1 to 10 should be construed as supporting a range of from 1 to 8, from 3 to 7, from 1 to 9, from 3.6 to 4.6, from 3.5 to 9.9, and so forth.

[0020] As used in this disclosure and the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an” and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to “a protein” or “the protein” includes two or more proteins.

[0021] The words “comprise,” “comprises” and “comprising” are to be interpreted inclusively rather than exclusively. Likewise, the terms “include,” “including” and “or” should all be construed to be inclusive, unless such a construction is clearly prohibited from the context. Nevertheless, the compositions and methods disclosed herein may lack any elementthat is not specifically disclosed herein. Thus, a disclosure of an embodiment using the term “comprising” includes a disclosure of embodiments “consisting essentially of’ and “consisting of’ the components or steps identified.

[0022] The terms “at least one of’ and “and / or” used respectively in the context of “at least one of X and Y” and “X and / or Y” should be interpreted as “X without Y,” or “Y without X,” or “both X and Y.” Where used herein, the terms “example” and “such as,” particularly when followed by a listing of terms, are merely exemplary and illustrative and should not be deemed to be exclusive or comprehensive.

[0023] As used herein, “related to,” “associated with” and “linked with” mean occurring concurrently, preferably mean caused by the same underlying condition, more preferably mean that one of the identified conditions is at least indirectly caused by the other identified condition, and most preferably mean that one of the identified conditions is directly caused by the other identified condition.

[0024] The terms “food,” “food supplement,” “food product” and “food composition” mean a product or composition that is intended for ingestion by an individual such as a human and provides at least one nutrient to the individual. The compositions of the present disclosure, including the many embodiments described herein, can comprise, consist of, or consist essentially of the elements disclosed herein, as well as any additional or optional ingredients, components, or elements described herein or otherwise useful in a diet supplement.

[0025] “Prevention” includes reduction of risk, incidence, severity and / or duration of a condition or disorder. The terms “treatment” and “treat” include both prophylactic or preventive treatment (that prevent and / or slow the development of a targeted pathologic condition or disorder) and curative, therapeutic or disease-modifying treatment, including therapeutic measures that cure, slow down, lessen symptoms of, and / or halt progression of a diagnosed pathologic condition or disorder; and treatment of patients at risk of contracting a disease or suspected to have contracted a disease, as well as patients who are ill or have been diagnosed as suffering from a disease or medical condition. The terms “treatment” and “treat” do not necessarily imply that a subject is treated until total recovery. The terms “treatment” and “treat” also refer to the maintenance and / or promotion of health in an individual not suffering from a disease but who may be susceptible to the development of an unhealthy condition. The terms “treatment” and “treat” are also intended to include the potentiation or otherwise enhancement of one or more primary prophylactic or therapeutic measures. As nonlimiting examples, a treatment can be performed by a patient, a caregiver, a doctor, a nurse, or another healthcare professional.

[0026] As used herein, the term “low lactose” shall refer to a composition with lactose less than or equal to 30% of the composition.

[0027] As used herein, the term “low sugar” shall refer to a composition with sugar less than or equal to 55% of the composition.

[0028] As used herein, a prophylactically or therapeutically “effective amount” is an amount that prevents a deficiency, treats a disease or medical condition in an individual, or, more generally, reduces symptoms, manages progression of the disease, or provides a nutritional, physiological, or medical benefit to the individual.

[0029] The term “composition” may mean a food, beverage, dietary supplement, complete nutrition or oral nutritional supplement (ONS) or medical food composition, or mixture thereof.

[0030] The composition can be in solid form (e.g., powder) or in liquid form. The amount of the various ingredients can be expressed in g / 100 g of the composition on a dry weight basis when it is in a solid form, e.g. a powder, or as a concentration in g / 100 mL of the composition when it refers to a liquid form (this latter also encompasses liquid composition that may be obtained from a powder after reconstitution in a liquid such as water.)

[0031] The term “unit dosage form,” as used herein, refers to physically discrete units suitable as unitary dosages for human and animal subjects, each unit containing a predetermined quantity of the composition disclosed herein in an amount sufficient to produce the desired effect, in association with an acceptable diluent, carrier or vehicle. The specifications for the unit dosage form depend on the particular compounds employed, the effect to be achieved, and the pharmacodynamics associated with each compound in the host.

[0032] “Galactooligosaccharides” (GOS) are oligosaccharides composed of different galactosyl residues (usually from 2 to 9 units) and a terminal glucose linked by P- glycosidic bonds, such as [3-(l— 2), [3-(l— 3), [3-(l— 4), and [3-(l— 6). GOS are normally produced through the enzymatic conversion of lactose.

[0033] Embodiments

[0034] In an aspect of the present disclosure, a method of increasing absorption of iron comprises administering to an individual in need thereof a milk-based composition comprising galactooligosaccharide, preferably the low sugar, low lactose, milk-based composition comprising galactooligosaccharide. In some embodiments, the composition comprises at least a portion of the iron for which absorption is increased. Alternatively or additionally, at least a portion of the iron for which absorption is increased is administered ina separate, distinct composition consumed concurrently and / or sequentially to the low sugar, low lactose, milk-based composition comprising galactooligosaccharide.

[0035] At least a portion of the iron for which absorption is increased may be naturally present in a food or a meal or a diet. The form of iron naturally present in food, meal or diet is different from iron forms used to fortify food products.

[0036] Preferably at least a portion of the iron for which absorption is increased is naturally occurring in food or a diet, wherein the food, the meal or diet is combined with the composition and / or consumed separately from the composition. More preferably at least about 2 wt.%, at least about 5 wt.%, at least about 10 wt.%, at least about 20 wt.%, at least about 30 wt.%, at least about 40 wt.%, at least 50 wt.%, at least about 60 wt.%, at least about 70 wt.%, at least about 80 wt.%, at least about 90 wt.% or even about 100 wt.% of the iron for which absorption is increased is naturally occurring in food or a diet, wherein the food or diet is combined with the composition and / or consumed separately from the composition.

[0037] Common sources of iron from the diet or any plant-based food include vegetables, legumes, pulses, seeds, cereals and / or fruits. Examples of such sources may be vegetables such as dark leafy greens such as spinach, kale, Swiss chard, collard greens, and beet greens; legumes such as lentils, chickpeas, kidney beans, and black beans; soybeans; cocoa beans; tofu, made from soybeans, soy flour, soy extracts, soy concentrates; nuts and seeds such as pumpkin seeds, sesame seeds, hemp seeds and cashews; and cereals, such as wheat, oat, barley, and whole grains such as quinoa, amaranth, oats, fruits such as strawberries, watermelon, figs, dates, raisins, dried apricots or prunes.

[0038] Particular non-limiting examples of embodiments of the methods disclosed herein include administering the milk-based composition comprising GOS disclosed herein, sequentially and / or simultaneously with a separate composition comprising an ingredient intrinsically containing iron, such as one or more of lentils, spinach, wheat flour, oat bran, or soy flour. The milk-based composition comprising GOS may be administered in an amount effective to increase absorption of the iron intrinsically present in the ingredient in the separate composition. The iron, for which absorption is increased by the milk-based composition comprising GOS, may be an amount effective for one or more of the therapeutic or prophylactic effects disclosed herein. Using the experimental protocols disclosed herein, the skilled person will be capable of determining the effective amount of the milk-based composition comprising GOS for increasing iron absorption.

[0039] Non-limiting examples of the individual, to whom the milk-based composition is administered, include adults; older adults; pregnant or lactating women;menopausal or perimenopausal women; infants; children; and subjects consuming a vegetarian diet, a flexitarian diet, a vegan diet or any type of plant-based diet.

[0040] In some embodiments, the milk-based composition is low fat milk, full fat milk, infant formula, follow on formula, beverage based milk, from animal or vegetal source. In an embodiment, the milk-based composition is in liquid or powder form.

[0041] In some embodiments, the composition comprising galactooligosaccharide comprises 20-40 % by dry weight of milk protein; and 32-55% by dry weight of a mixture of lactose, glucose, galactose and galactooligosaccharide.

[0042] In some embodiments, the composition comprising galactooligosaccharide comprises 35-55% by dry weight of a mixture of lactose, glucose, galactose and galactooligosaccharide.

[0043] In an embodiment, the mixture of lactose, glucose and galactose and galactooligosaccharide comprises: 0.1-30% by weight of lactose.

[0044] In an embodiment, the mixture of lactose, glucose and galactose and galactooligosaccharide comprises: 8-40% by weight of glucose.

[0045] In an embodiment, the mixture of lactose, glucose and galactose and galactooligosaccharide comprises: 0.1-20% by weight of galactose.

[0046] In an embodiment, the mixture of lactose, glucose and galactose and galactooligosaccharide comprises 40-90% by weight of galactooligosaccharide.

[0047] In an embodiment, the milk-based composition comprising galactooligosaccharide comprises: milk protein, preferably at 20-40 % by dry weight of the composition; and a mixture of lactose, glucose, galactose and galactooligosaccharide, the mixture preferably at 32-55% by dry weight of the composition; preferably, the mixture comprising: 0.1-30% by weight of the lactose, 8-40% by weight of the glucose, 0.1-20% by weight of the galactose and 40-90% by weight of the galactooligosaccharide.

[0048] In another embodiment, the milk-based composition comprising galactooligosaccharide comprises: milk protein, preferably at 20-40 % by dry weight of the composition; and a mixture of lactose, glucose, galactose and galactooligosaccharide, the mixture preferably at 35-55% by dry weight of the composition;preferably, the mixture comprising: 0.1-30% by weight of the lactose, 8-40% by weight of the glucose, 0.1-20% by weight of the galactose and 40-90% by weight of the galactooligosaccharide.

[0049] Some embodiments provide a contribution from each of the components of the composition individually, in combination, and / or synergistically.

[0050] Adequate iron absorption is important for overall health and can provide several benefits:

[0051] Prevents iron deficiency anemia: Iron absorption helps prevent iron deficiency anemia, a condition characterized by low levels of red blood cells and insufficient oxygen delivery to tissues. Symptoms of iron deficiency or iron deficiency anemia include fatigue, weakness, pale skin, and shortness of breath.

[0052] Supports cognitive function: Iron is important for proper brain function. It helps in the production of neurotransmitters, such as dopamine and serotonin, which play a role in mood regulation (e.g. mood fluctuations during menopause); memory, and cognitive function. Sufficient iron absorption can support optimal brain health and cognitive abilities.

[0053] Enhances immune function: Iron is essential for a healthy immune system. It plays a role in the production and function of immune cells, such as white blood cells, which help fight off infections and diseases. Adequate iron absorption can strengthen the immune system and improve its ability to defend against pathogens.

[0054] Promotes healthy pregnancy outcomes: Iron absorption is particularly important during pregnancy. Iron is needed to support the increased blood volume and oxygen supply to the growing fetus. Sufficient iron levels can reduce the risk of complications like preterm birth, low birth weight, and developmental issues in the baby.

[0055] Supports muscle function: Iron is necessary for proper muscle function. It helps in the production of myoglobin, a protein that stores oxygen in muscle cells. Adequate iron absorption ensures that muscles receive enough oxygen for optimal performance and prevents muscle weakness and fatigue.

[0056] Improves concentration and focus: Iron plays a role in neurotransmitter synthesis, which affects cognitive function, including concentration and focus. Sufficient iron absorption can enhance mental clarity, attention span, and overall cognitive performance.

[0057] Reduces tiredness and fatigue: Iron plays a crucial role in the body's energy production and oxygen transport, which can impact tiredness and fatigue.

[0058] Promotes bone health. For example, iron plays supportive role for maintaining bone density, in particular relevant for preventing osteoporosis.

[0059] Accordingly, the increased iron absorption from the methods disclosed herein may provide at least one result selected from the group consisting of: (a) treating, preventing, or reducing risk, incidence, severity and / or duration of iron deficiency and / or iron deficiency anemia; (b) increased energy production; (c) maintained or improved cognitive function; (d) enhanced immune function; (e) reduced risk of pregnancy complications such as preterm birth, low birth weight, and developmental issues in the baby; (f) maintained or improved muscle function; (g) maintained or improved concentration and focus; (h) reduction of tiredness and fatigue; (i) supports bone health and (j) combinations thereof.

[0060] The method may comprise identifying the individual as having a medical condition or physical state that would benefit from increased iron absorption, and / or the method may comprise identifying the individual as at risk of a medical condition or physical state that would benefit from iron absorption. In particular embodiments, the individual subjected with methods and / or compositions of the invention is desiring prevention of one or more undesirable physical states (or the effects thereof, such as with aging) or medical conditions.

[0061] In some embodiments, the composition comprises 20-40% by dry weight of milk protein. Milk protein includes any protein or combination of proteins derived from milk. The milk proteins may have been derived from milk in any suitable way. In a preferred embodiment, the composition comprises 25-40%, more preferably 30-40% by dry weight of milk protein.

[0062] In some embodiments, the composition comprises 3.5 to 45% by weight of galactooligosaccharides, preferably 4- 30 % weight by weight GOS.

[0063] In some embodiments, the composition further comprises 35-55%, more preferably 32-55%, by dry weight of a mixture of lactose, glucose, galactose and GOS, the mixture comprising: 0.1-30% by weight of lactose, 8-40% by weight of glucose, 0.1-20% by weight of galactose and 40-90% by weight of GOS.

[0064] In a preferred embodiment, the composition comprises 45-55% by dry weight of the mixture of lactose, glucose, galactose and GOS; in a more preferred embodiment, the food ingredient comprises 50-55% by dry weight of the mixture of lactose, glucose, galactose and GOS.

[0065] In another preferred embodiment of the invention, the mixture of lactose, glucose, galactose and GOS comprises 60-90% by weight of GOS, more preferred 70-90% by weight of GOS.

[0066] In yet another preferred embodiment, the mixture of lactose, glucose, galactose and GOS contains: 1-20% by weight of lactose, 15-35% by weight of glucose, 1-10% by weight of galactose and 50-85% by weight of GOS.

[0067] In a more preferred embodiment, the mixture of lactose, glucose, galactose and GOS contains: 1-14% by weight of lactose, 15-29% by weight of glucose, 1-8% by weight of galactose and 70-90% by weight of GOS.

[0068] In some embodiments, the mixture of lactose, glucose, galactose and GOS comprises 0.1-30%, such as 0.1-5%, 5-10%, 10-15%, 15-20%, 20-25%, or 25-30% by weight of lactose.

[0069] In some embodiments, the mixture of lactose, glucose, galactose and GOS comprises 8-40%, such as 8-16%, 16-24%, 24-32%, or 32-40%, by weight of glucose.

[0070] In some embodiments, the mixture of lactose, glucose, galactose and GOS comprises 0.1-20%, such as 0.1-5%, 5-10%, 10-15%, or 15-20%, by weight of galactose.

[0071] In some embodiments, the mixture of lactose, glucose, galactose and GOS comprises 40-90%, such as 40-50%, 50-60%, 60-70%, or 70-80% by weight of GOS.

[0072] The composition may further comprise 0.5-30% by dry weight of milk fat and / or minerals derived from milk, preferably 2-20%, more preferably 6-10% by dry weight of milk fat and / or minerals derived from milk. Milk fat includes fat derived from milk in any suitable way. Milk derived minerals include minerals derived from milk in any suitable way, e.g. calcium, sodium, potassium, phosphorus and / or magnesium salts. Milk fat and / or milk derived minerals may originate from liquid milk, such as skim milk, partially skimmed milk and / or whole milk, or from milk powder, such as e.g. skim milk powder and / or whole milk powder.

[0073] In a preferred embodiment, the composition further comprises 5-20% by dry weight of vegetable oil, more preferably 8-15% by dry weight of vegetable oil. The vegetable oil may be any suitable vegetable oil, preferably palm oil. In one embodiment, the composition relates to a cocoa, coffee, fruit based and / or malt beverage powder comprising: 10-35% by weight of non-fat milk solids; 0-65% by weight of malt extract solids; 0-15% by weight of cocoa solids; 6-15% by weight of vegetable oil and / or milk fat; 0-25% by weight of sucrose; 1-6% by weight of glucose; 0.1-5% by weight of lactose; and 3-10% by weight of GOS.

[0074] Non-fat milk solids may be derived from any suitable milk source, such as liquid milk, e.g., skim milk and / or whole milk, and / or milk powder, e.g., skim milk powder and / or whole milk powder. If liquid milk is used, it may be concentrated, for example by evaporation or filtration. Malt extract solids may be in any suitable form, e.g. in the form of apowdered or liquid extract of malted barley and / or wheat. Cocoa solids may be from any suitable cocoa source, e.g. in the form of cocoa powder, cocoa mass and / or cocoa butter. Vegetable oil may be any suitable vegetable oil, preferably palm oil. Milk fat may be derived from any suitable milk source, such as e.g. liquid milk or cream, e.g. skim milk, cream, and / or whole milk, and / or milk powder, e.g. skim milk powder, cream powder, and / or whole milk powder, and / or may be in the form of butter, butter oil and / or anhydrous milk fat. If liquid milk or cream is used, it may be concentrated, for example by evaporation or filtration.

[0075] A cocoa and / or malt beverage powder preferably is 10-30% by dry weight of the composition, more preferably 15-25% by dry weight of the composition. In a preferred embodiment, the cocoa and / or malt beverage powder comprises 2-4% by weight of glucose; 0.1-2% by weight of lactose; and 5-10% by weight of GOS.

[0076] A cocoa and / or malt beverage powder may comprise sucrose. Due to the amounts of lactose, glucose and GOS present in the composition, the amount of sucrose may be reduced as compared to a conventional cocoa and / or malt beverage powder, while retaining an acceptable taste, sweetness and texture. In a preferred embodiment, a cocoa and / or malt beverage product does not comprise sucrose. In another preferred embodiment, a cocoa and / or malt beverage powder comprises 1-25% by weight of sucrose, more preferably 5-20% by weight of sucrose.

[0077] The cocoa and / or malt beverage powder may comprise any other suitable ingredients known in the art, such as e.g. vitamins, minerals, buffer salts, emulsifiers and stabilizers.

[0078] The cocoa and / or malt beverage powder may be produced by any suitable method known in the art. The ingredients may be in powder form and mixed in the dry state; some or all ingredients may be mixed in aqueous solution / suspension and subsequently dried to a powder; or some or all powdered ingredients may be co-agglomerated to produce a powder with improved solubility.

[0079] In a preferred embodiment, a cocoa and malt beverage powder comprises 15- 35% by weight of non-fat milk solids; 20-50% by weight of malt extract solids; 5-15% by weight of cocoa solids; 6-15% by weight of vegetable oil and / or milk fat; 0-25% by weight of sucrose; 1-6% by weight of glucose; 0.1-5% by weight of lactose; and 3-10% by weight of galactooligosaccharide.

[0080] In some embodiments, a liquid cocoa and / or malt beverage product comprises: 3-10% by weight of non-fat milk solids; 1-6% by weight of malt extract solids; 0- 5% by weight of cocoa solids; 0.3-5% by weight of vegetable oil and / or milk fat; 0-5% byweight of sucrose; 0.4-1.5% by weight of glucose; 0.01-1% by weight of lactose; and 0.5-5% by weight of GOS.

[0081] The liquid cocoa and / or malt beverage product is a cocoa and / or malt beverage product in liquid form which is suitable to be consumed without addition of liquid (“ ready -to-drink”). It may be packed in a container from which it can be consumed directly upon opening.

[0082] The composition can be in any oral nutritional form, e.g., a health drink, a ready-made drink, optionally as a soft drink, including juices, coffee, tea, milk-shake, yogurt drink, smoothie or soy -based drink; in a food bar; a powder, such as in sachet form; or dispersed in foods of any sort, such as baked products, cereal bars, dairy bars, snack-foods, soups, breakfast cereals, muesli, candies, tabs, cookies, biscuits, crackers (such as rice crackers), and dairy and plant-based products.

[0083] In some embodiments, the composition is a ready-to-drink beverage. The weight percentages are based on dry matter of the composition before reconstitution. In an embodiment, the ready-to-drink beverage comprises 32%-55% of a mixture of lactose, glucose, galactose, and GOS. In an embodiment, the composition comprises 40-45% by dry weight of the mixture of lactose, glucose, galactose and GOS. In an embodiment, the composition comprises 45-50% by dry weight of the mixture of lactose, glucose, galactose and GOS. In an embodiment, the food ingredient comprises 32-37% by dry weight of the mixture of lactose, glucose, galactose and GOS.

[0084] In some embodiments, the mixture of lactose, glucose, galactose and GOS in the composition contains 1-25% by weight of lactose, such as 1-5%, 5-10%, 10-15%, 15-20%, or 20-25% by weight of lactose. In some embodiments, the mixture of lactose, glucose, galactose and GOS in the composition contains 15-35% by weight of glucose, such as 15-20%, 20-25%, 25-30%, or 30-35% by weight of glucose. In some embodiments, the mixture of lactose, glucose, galactose and GOS in the composition contains 1-10% by weight of galactose, such as 1-2%, 2-4%, 4-6%, 6-8%, or 8-10% by weight of galactose. In some embodiments, the mixture of lactose, glucose, galactose and GOS in the composition contains 50-85% by weight of GOS, such as 50-60%, 60-70%, 70-80%, or 80-85% by weight of GOS.

[0085] In a preferred embodiment, the composition comprises 40-45% of a mixture of lactose, glucose, galactose and GOS. In a preferred embodiment, the mixture of lactose, glucose, galactose and GOS in the composition contains 10-20% by weight of lactose. In a preferred embodiment, the mixture of lactose, glucose, galactose and GOS in the composition contains 15-25% by weight of glucose. In a preferred embodiment, the mixture of lactose,glucose, galactose and GOS in the composition contains 0.1-5% by weight of galactose. In a preferred embodiment, the mixture of lactose, glucose, galactose and GOS in the composition contains 57-70% by weight of GOS.

[0086] In some embodiments, the ready-to-drink beverage includes milk. In some embodiments, the milk includes full milk, skim milk, and other types of milk. In some embodiments, the ready to drink beverage is optionally fortified with one or more vitamins and minerals. In a preferred embodiment, the one or more vitamins include vitamins for providing a benefit, such as improving immunity and / or mobility.

[0087] The composition may be administered to the individual at least two days per week, at least three days per week, all seven days of the week respecting serving size; for at least one week, at least one month, at least two months, at least three months, at least six months, or even longer. In some embodiments, the composition is administered to the individual consecutively for a number of days. In an embodiment, the composition can be administered to the individual daily for at least 30, 60 or 90 consecutive days.

[0088] In some embodiments, the serving size of the composition is an amount effective to increase iron absorption, for example, about 100 ml, about 200 ml, or about 300 ml, about 400 ml, about 500 ml of the composition. In some embodiments, the composition is administered in a unit dosage form that comprises an amount of the composition effective for increasing iron absorption.

[0089] In view of the disclosures herein, an embodiment is a method for increasing absorption of iron, preferably comprising at least one of increasing iron absorbability and / or increasing iron bioavailability. The method comprises administering to an individual in need thereof a milk-based composition comprising galactooligosaccharide.

[0090] In some embodiments, the milk-based composition is low fat milk, full fat milk, infant formula, follow on formula, beverage based milk, from animal or vegetal source. In an embodiment, the milk-based composition is in liquid or powder form.

[0091] In some embodiments, the composition comprises 20-40% by dry weight of milk protein. Milk protein includes any protein or combination of proteins derived from milk. The milk proteins may have been derived from milk in any suitable way. In a preferred embodiment, the composition comprises 25-40%, more preferably 30-40% by dry weight of milk protein.

[0092] In some embodiments, the composition comprises 3.5 to 45% by weight of galactooligosaccharides, preferably 4- 30 % weight by weight GOS.

[0093] In some embodiments of this method, the milk-based composition comprises: milk protein, preferably at 20-40 % by dry weight of the composition; and a mixture of lactose, glucose, galactose and galactooligosaccharide, the mixture preferably at 32-55% by dry weight of the composition;

[0094] preferably, the mixture comprising: 0.1-30% by weight of the lactose, 8-40% by weight of the glucose, 0.1-20% by weight of the galactose and 40-90% by weight of the galactooligosaccharide.

[0095] In some embodiments of this method, the increasing absorption of iron comprises at least one result selected from the group consisting of: (a) treating, preventing, or reducing risk, incidence, severity and / or duration of iron deficiency and / or iron deficiency anemia; (b) increased energy production; (c) maintained or improved cognitive function; (d) enhanced immune function; (e) reduced risk of pregnancy complications such as preterm birth, low birth weight, and developmental issues in the baby; (f) maintained or improved muscle function; (g) maintained or improved concentration and focus; (h) reduction of tiredness and fatigue; (i) supports bone health and (j) combinations thereof.

[0096] In an embodiment of this method, the iron, for which absorption is increased, is present in an additional composition separate and distinct from the milk-based composition comprising galactooligosaccharide, concurrently and / or sequentially. The additional composition is free from exogenous iron and instead comprises at least one ingredient in which the iron is naturally occurring, for example one or more of vegetables, legumes, pulses, seeds, cereals and / or fruits, such as one or more of lentils, spinach, wheat flour, oat bran, or soy flour. Optionally the milk-based composition comprising galactooligosaccharide does not contain any iron.

[0097] In another embodiment of this method, the milk-based composition comprising galactooligosaccharide further comprises the iron for which absorption is increased. The milk-based composition comprising galactooligosaccharide is free from exogenous iron and instead comprises at least one ingredient in which the iron is naturally occurring, for example one or more of vegetables, legumes, pulses, seeds, cereals and / or fruits, such as one or more of lentils, spinach, wheat flour, oat bran, or soy flour. In another embodiment, further exogenous iron is added as a fortificant.

[0098] In yet another embodiment of this method, the milk-based composition comprising galactooligosaccharide further comprises the iron for which absorption is increased. The iron, for which absorption is increased, has been exogenously added as afortificant in the milk-based composition comprising galactooligosaccharide, such that the milk-based composition comprising galactooligosaccharide is an iron-fortified composition.

[0099] In a further embodiment of this method, the iron, for which absorption is increased, is present in an additional composition separate and distinct from the milk-based composition comprising galactooligosaccharide, concurrently and / or sequentially. The iron, for which absorption is increased, has been exogenously added as a fortificant in the additional composition, such that the additional composition is an iron-fortified composition. Optionally the milk-based composition comprising galactooligosaccharide does not contain any iron.

[0100] In another embodiment of this method, the iron, for which absorption is increased, is present in an additional composition separate and distinct from the milk-based composition comprising galactooligosaccharide, concurrently and / or sequentially. Optionally the milk-based composition comprising galactooligosaccharide does not contain any iron. The additional composition comprises at least one ingredient in which a first portion of the iron is naturally occurring, for example one or more of vegetables, legumes, pulses, seeds, cereals and / or fruits, such as one or more of lentils, spinach, wheat flour, oat bran, or soy flour. A second portion of the iron in the additional composition has been exogenously added as a fortificant in the additional composition, such that the additional composition is an iron- fortified composition.

[0101] Preferably the individual, to whom milk-based composition is administered in this method, is selected from the group consisting of adults; older adults; pregnant or lactating women; menopausal or perimenopausal women; infants; children; and subjects consuming a vegetarian diet, a flexitarian diet, a vegan diet or any type of plant-based diet.

[0102] Preferably at least a portion of the iron in this method is from a natural source, and preferably at least about 2 wt.%, at least about 5 wt.%, at least about 10 wt.%, at least about 20 wt.%, at least about 30 wt.%, at least about 40 wt.%, at least 50 wt.%, at least about 60 wt.%, at least about 70 wt.%, at least about 80 wt.%, at least about 90 wt.% or even about 100 wt.% of the total iron for which absorption is increased is naturally occurring in food or a diet combined with the milk-based composition and / or consumed separately from the milkbased composition.

[0103] In another embodiment, the present disclosure provides a method for one or more of (a) treating, preventing, or reducing risk, incidence, severity and / or duration of iron deficiency and / or iron deficiency anemia; (b) increased energy production; (c) maintained or improved cognitive function; (d) enhanced immune function; (e) reduced risk of pregnancy complications such as preterm birth, low birth weight, and developmental issues in the baby;(f) maintained or improved muscle function; (g) maintained or improved concentration and focus; (h) reduction of tiredness and fatigue; (i) supports bone health and (j) combinations thereof. The method comprises administering to an individual in need thereof or at risk thereof a composition comprising: a milk-based composition comprising galactooligosaccharide.

[0104] In some embodiments, the milk-based composition is a low sugar, low lactose milk-based composition comprising galactooligosaccharide.

[0105] In some embodiments, the composition comprises 3.5 to 45% by weight of galactooligosaccharides, preferably 4- 30 % weight by weight GOS.

[0106] In some embodiments of this method, the milk-based composition comprises: milk protein, preferably at 20-40 % by dry weight of the composition; and a mixture of lactose, glucose, galactose and galactooligosaccharide, the mixture preferably at 32-55% by dry weight of the composition; preferably, the mixture comprising: 0.1-30% by weight of the lactose, 8-40% by weight of the glucose, 0.1-20% by weight of the galactose and 40-90% by weight of the galactooligosaccharide.

[0107] In some embodiments of this method, the composition is administered to the individual in a unit dosage form, wherein the unit dosage form comprises an amount of the composition effective for increasing absorption of iron in the individual, preferably comprising at least one of increasing iron absorbability and / or increasing iron bioavailability in the individual. Optionally the unit dosage form further comprises at a portion of the iron for which absorption is increased, (i) in at least one ingredient in which the iron is naturally occurring, for example one or more of vegetables, legumes, pulses, seeds, cereals and / or fruits, such as one or more of lentils, spinach, wheat flour, oat bran, or soy flour; and / or (ii) exogenously added as a fortificant in the composition.

[0108] In an embodiment of this method, the iron, for which absorption is increased, is present in an additional composition separate and distinct from the milk-based composition comprising galactooligosaccharide, concurrently and / or sequentially. The additional composition is free from exogenous iron and instead comprises at least one ingredient in which the iron is naturally occurring, for example one or more of vegetables, legumes, pulses, seeds, cereals and / or fruits, such as one or more of lentils, spinach, wheat flour, oat bran, or soy flour. Optionally the milk-based composition comprising galactooligosaccharide does not contain any iron.

[0109] In another embodiment of this method, the milk-based composition comprising galactooligosaccharide further comprises the iron for which absorption is increased. The milk-based composition comprising galactooligosaccharide is free from exogenous iron and instead comprises at least one ingredient in which the iron is naturally occurring, for example one or more of vegetables, legumes, pulses, seeds, cereals and / or fruits, such as one or more of lentils, spinach, wheat flour, oat bran, or soy flour. Optionally, further exogenous iron may be added as a fortificant to the milk-based composition.

[0110] In yet another embodiment of this method, the milk-based composition comprising galactooligosaccharide further comprises the iron for which absorption is increased. The iron, for which absorption is increased, has been exogenously added as a fortificant in the milk-based composition comprising galactooligosaccharide, such that the milk-based composition comprising galactooligosaccharide is an iron-fortified composition.

[0111] In a further embodiment of this method, the iron, for which absorption is increased, is present in an additional composition separate and distinct from the milk-based composition comprising galactooligosaccharide, concurrently and / or sequentially. The iron, for which absorption is increased, has been exogenously added as a fortificant in the additional composition, such that the additional composition is an iron-fortified composition. Optionally the milk-based composition comprising galactooligosaccharide does not contain any iron.

[0112] In another embodiment of this method, the iron, for which absorption is increased, is present in an additional composition separate and distinct from the milk-based composition comprising galactooligosaccharide, concurrently and / or sequentially. Optionally the milk-based composition comprising galactooligosaccharide does not contain any iron. The additional composition comprises at least one ingredient in which a first portion of the iron is naturally occurring, for example one or more of vegetables, legumes, pulses, seeds, cereals and / or fruits, such as one or more of lentils, spinach, wheat flour, oat bran, or soy flour. A second portion of the iron in the additional composition has been exogenously added as a fortificant in the additional composition, such that the additional composition is an iron- fortified composition.

[0113] Preferably at least a portion of the iron in this method is from a natural source, and preferably at least about 2 wt.%, at least about 5 wt.%, at least about 10 wt.%, at least about 20 wt.%, at least about 30 wt.%, at least about 40 wt.%, at least 50 wt.%, at least about 60 wt.%, at least about 70 wt.%, at least about 80 wt.%, at least about 90 wt.% or even about 100 wt.% of the total iron for which absorption is increased is naturally occurring infood or a diet combined with the milk-based composition and / or consumed separately from the milk-based composition.

[0114] Preferably the individual, to whom the milk-based composition is administered in this method, is selected from the group consisting of adults; older adults; pregnant or lactating women; menopausal or perimenopausal women; infants; children; and subjects consuming a vegetarian diet, a flexitarian diet, a vegan diet or any type of plant-based diet.EXAMPLES

[0115] The following non-limiting examples generally illustrates\ the concepts underlying the embodiments disclosed herein.

[0116] Example 1

[0117] Materials and methods

[0118] The results presented in this example were generated with the in vitro simulated digestion coupled with the Caco-2 cell model as described previously by Glahn, R.P. et al. Caco-2 cell ferritin formation predicts non-radiolab eled food iron availability in an in vitro digestion / Caco-2 cell culture model. J. Nutr. 1998, 128, 1555-1561.

[0119] In brief, the food matrix underwent a simulated gastric digestion with pepsin at pH = 2, 37 °C for one hour. This step was followed by a simulated intestinal digestion with pancreatin and bile at pH = 7, 37 °C for two hours (n = 3). This second step took place on a dialysis membrane placed above the Caco-2 cell monolayers. During the digestion process, iron was released from the food matrix. Solubilized iron can diffuse through the membrane and be taken up by the cells. Thus, in response to higher intracellular iron concentrations, Caco-2 cells will form ferritin. The formation of ferritin was quantified as an indicator of iron uptake by the cells. It was measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay in harvested Caco-2 cells at 18 h after the digestion. The results were normalized by the total protein content of the Caco- 2 cells and were expressed as ng ferritin / mg protein (n = 3).

[0120] The impact of the composition (COMP) on in vitro iron absorption from iron intrinsically present in vegetables (CTRL) was performed in comparison to the CTRL vegetable tested alone, or mixed with a galactooligosaccharide (GOS) of high purity (i.e. 97.5%), or mixed with the COMP. These 3 conditions were mixed in a way to have similar iron concentrations in the digestats tested in the Caco-2 cell model. In addition, the GOS and the COMP conditions, a weight ratio (g / mg) between GOS and iron was maintained to 2.5 to 1 iron.

[0121] Results

[0122] The results are presented in FIG. 1 as ratios of ferritin (normalized for protein concentration) produced by the cells for a condition to that of ferritin (normalized for protein concentration) produced by the cells for CTRL * 100. Therefore, this ratio for the CTRL vegetable is always 100%.

[0123] As depicted in FIG. 1, the results show that when cooked green lentils are used as control, GOS does not increase the in vitro absorption of iron naturally present in lentils, however the COMP increases it by 9%. When cooked spinach branches are used as control, GOS does not increase the in vitro absorption of iron naturally present in spinach branches, however the COMP increases significantly it by 65%. Similarly, when wheat flour and oat bran are used as CTRL, the addition of purified GOS alone did not improve significantly the natural iron absorption. However, the COMP allowed a significant increased absorption from the iron naturally present in the CTRL by 4.7 and 2.7-fold, respectively.

[0124] Example 2

[0125] Materials and methods

[0126] The same method was followed as in Example 1. The same weight ratio of 2.5: 1 was applied for COMP -low. Then, a ratio of 5: 1 was applied to the COMP -High condition. The in vitro absorption for each individual condition was determined in triplicate (n=3).

[0127] Results

[0128] The results are presented in FIG. 2 as ratios of ferritin (normalized for protein concentration) produced by the cells for a condition to that of ferritin (normalized for protein concentration) produced by the cells for CTRL * 100. Therefore, this ratio for the CTRL vegetable is always 100%.

[0129] FIG. 2 shows that the effect of the composition on iron absorption naturally present in vegetables may be dose dependent. When oat bran was used as CTRL, a significant increased iron absorption from the natural iron by 2.7 and 4.3-fold is observed when mixed with the COMP -LOW and COMP high respectively, when compared to the oat bran tested alone. When soy flour was used as CTRL, no increase is observed with the COMP -LOW condition, but a significant 1.7 fold increase is observed with the COMP high showing that the dose effect could also depend on the considered ingredient.

Claims

CLAIMSClaim 1 : A method for increasing absorption of iron, preferably comprising at least one of increasing iron absorbability and / or increasing iron bioavailability, the method comprising administering to an individual in need thereof a milk-based composition comprising galactooligosaccharide.Claim 2: The method of claim 1, wherein the milk-based composition is a low sugar, low lactose milk-based composition comprising galactooligosaccharide.Claim 3: the method of claim 1 or 2, wherein the galactooligosaccharide is present in an amount of 3.5% to 45% by weight of the milk-based composition.Claim 4: The method of any of claims 1 to 3, wherein the milk-based composition comprises: milk protein, preferably at 20-40 % by dry weight of the milk-based composition; and a mixture of lactose, glucose, galactose and galactooligosaccharide, the mixture preferably at 32-55% by dry weight of the milk-based composition; preferably, the mixture comprising: 0.1-30% by weight of the lactose, 8-40% by weight of the glucose, 0.1-20% by weight of the galactose and 40-90% by weight of the galactooligosaccharide.Claim 5: The method of any of claims 1 to 4, wherein the increasing absorption of iron comprises at least one result selected from the group consisting of: (a) treating, preventing, or reducing risk, incidence, severity and / or duration of iron deficiency and / or iron deficiency anemia; (b) increased energy production; (c) maintained or improved cognitive function; (d) enhanced immune function; (e) reduced risk of pregnancy complications such as preterm birth, low birth weight, and developmental issues in the baby; (f) maintained or improved muscle function; (g) maintained or improved concentration and focus; (h) reduction of tiredness and fatigue; (i) supports bone health and (j) combinations thereof.Claim 6: The method of any of claims 1 to 5, wherein the iron, for which absorption is increased, is present in an additional composition separate and distinct from the milk-based composition comprising galactooligosaccharide, concurrently and / or sequentially;wherein the additional composition is free from exogenous iron and instead comprises at least one ingredient in which the iron is naturally occurring, for example one or more of vegetables, legumes, pulses, seeds, cereals and / or fruits, such as one or more of lentils, spinach, wheat flour, oat bran, or soy flour, and optionally the milk-based composition comprising galactooligosaccharide does not contain any iron.Claim 7: The method of any of claims 1 to 5, wherein the milk-based composition comprising galactooligosaccharide further comprises the iron for which absorption is increased, and the milk-based composition comprising galactooligosaccharide comprises at least one ingredient in which the iron is naturally occurring, for example one or more of vegetables, legumes, pulses, seeds, cereals and / or fruits, such as one or more of lentils, spinach, wheat flour, oat bran, or soy flour, and optionally the milk-based composition is free from exogenous iron.Claim 8: The method of claim 7, wherein further iron is exogenously added as a fortificant in the milk-based composition comprising galactooligosaccharide.Claim 9: The method of any of claims 1 to 5, wherein the milk-based composition comprising galactooligosaccharide further comprises the iron for which absorption is increased, and wherein the iron, for which absorption is increased, has been exogenously added as a fortificant in the milk-based composition comprising galactooligosaccharide, such that the milk-based composition comprising galactooligosaccharide is an iron-fortified composition.Claim 10: The method of any of claims 1 to 5, wherein the iron, for which absorption is increased, is present in an additional composition separate and distinct from the milk-based composition comprising galactooligosaccharide, concurrently and / or sequentially, wherein the iron, for which absorption is increased, has been exogenously added as a fortificant in the additional composition, such that the additional composition is an iron- fortified composition, and optionally the milk-based composition comprising galactooligosaccharide does not contain any iron.Claim 11: The method of any of claims 1 to 5, wherein the iron, for which absorption is increased, is present in an additional composition separate and distinct from the milk-based composition comprising galactooligosaccharide, concurrently and / or sequentially, optionally the milk-based composition comprising galactooligosaccharide does not contain any iron, wherein the additional composition comprises at least one ingredient in which a first portion of the iron is naturally occurring, for example one or more of vegetables, legumes, pulses, seeds, cereals and / or fruits, such as one or more of lentils, spinach, wheat flour, oat bran, or soy flour, and wherein a second portion of the iron in the additional composition has been exogenously added as a fortificant in the additional composition, such that the additional composition is an iron-fortified composition.Claim 12: The method of any of claims 1 to 11, wherein the individual, to whom the milk-based composition, preferably the low sugar, low lactose milk-based composition, is administered, is selected from the group consisting of adults; older adults; pregnant or lactating women; menopausal or perimenopausal women; infants; children; and subjects consuming a vegetarian diet, a flexitarian diet, a vegan diet or any type of plant-based diet.Claim 13: The method of any of claims 1 to 12, wherein at least a portion of the iron is from a natural source, and preferably at least about 2 wt.%, at least about 5 wt.%, at least about 10 wt.%, at least about 20 wt.%, at least about 30 wt.%, at least about 40 wt.%, at least 50 wt.%, at least about 60 wt.%, at least about 70 wt.%, at least about 80 wt.%, at least about 90 wt.% or even about 100 wt.% of the total iron for which absorption is increased is naturally occurring in food or a diet combined with the milk-based composition and / or consumed separately from the milk-based composition.Claim 14: A method for one or more of (a) treating, preventing, or reducing risk, incidence, severity and / or duration of iron deficiency and / or iron deficiency anemia; (b) increased energy production; (c) maintained or improved cognitive function; (d) enhanced immune function; (e) reduced risk of pregnancy complications such as preterm birth, low birth weight, and developmental issues in the baby; (f) maintained or improved muscle function; (g) maintained or improved concentration and focus; (h) reduction of tiredness and fatigue; (i) supports bone health and (j) combinations thereof, the method comprising administering to anindividual in need thereof or at risk thereof a composition comprising a milk-based composition comprising galactooligosaccharide.Claim 15: The method of claim 14, wherein the milk-based composition is a low sugar, low lactose milk-based composition comprising galactooligosaccharide.Claim 16: The method of claim 14 or claim 15, wherein the galactooligosaccharide is present in an amount of 3.5% to 45% by weight of the milk-based composition.Claim 17: The method of any of claims 14 to 16, wherein the milk-based composition comprises: milk protein, preferably at 20-40 % by dry weight of the milk-based composition; and a mixture of lactose, glucose, galactose and galactooligosaccharide, the mixture preferably at 32-55% by dry weight of the milk-based composition; preferably, the mixture comprising: 0.1-30% by weight of the lactose, 8-40% by weight of the glucose, 0.1-20% by weight of the galactose and 40-90% by weight of the galactooligosaccharide.Claim 18: The method of any of claims 14 to 17, wherein the composition is administered to the individual in a unit dosage form, wherein the unit dosage form comprises an amount of the composition effective for increasing absorption of iron in the individual, preferably comprising at least one of increasing iron absorbability and / or increasing iron bioavailability in the individual, and optionally the unit dosage form further comprises at a portion of the iron for which absorption is increased, (i) in at least one ingredient in which the iron is naturally occurring, for example one or more of vegetables, legumes, pulses, seeds, cereals and / or fruits, such as one or more of lentils, spinach, wheat flour, oat bran, or soy flour; and / or (ii) exogenously added as a fortificant in the composition.Claim 19: The method of any of claims 14 to 18, wherein the iron, for which absorption is increased, is present in an additional composition separate and distinct from the milk-based composition comprising galactooligosaccharide, concurrently and / or sequentially; wherein the additional composition is free from exogenous iron and instead comprises at least one ingredient in which the iron is naturally occurring, for example one or more ofvegetables, legumes, pulses, seeds, cereals and / or fruits, such as one or more of lentils, spinach, wheat flour, oat bran, or soy flour, and optionally the milk-based composition comprising galactooligosaccharide does not contain any iron.Claim 20: The method of any of claims 14 to 18, wherein the milk-based composition comprising galactooligosaccharide further comprises the iron for which absorption is increased, and the milk-based composition comprising galactooligosaccharide comprises at least one ingredient in which the iron is naturally occurring, for example one or more of vegetables, legumes, pulses, seeds, cereals and / or fruits, such as one or more of lentils, spinach, wheat flour, oat bran, or soy flour, and optionally the milk-based composition is free from exogenous iron.Claim 21 : The method of claim 20, wherein further iron is exogenously added as a fortificant in the milk-based composition comprising galactooligosaccharide.Claim 22: The method of any of claims 14 to 18, wherein the milk-based composition comprising galactooligosaccharide further comprises the iron for which absorption is increased, and wherein the iron, for which absorption is increased, has been exogenously added as a fortificant in the milk-based composition comprising galactooligosaccharide, such that the milk-based composition comprising galactooligosaccharide is an iron-fortified composition.Claim 23 : The method of any of claims 14 to 18, wherein the iron, for which absorption is increased, is present in an additional composition separate and distinct from the milk-based composition comprising galactooligosaccharide, concurrently and / or sequentially, wherein the iron, for which absorption is increased, has been exogenously added as a fortificant in the additional composition, such that the additional composition is an iron- fortified composition, and optionally the milk-based composition comprising galactooligosaccharide does not contain any iron.Claim 24: The method of any of claims 14 to 18, wherein the iron, for which absorption is increased, is present in an additional composition separate and distinct from the milk-based composition comprising galactooligosaccharide, concurrently and / or sequentially,optionally the milk-based composition comprising galactooligosaccharide does not contain any iron, wherein the additional composition comprises at least one ingredient in which a first portion of the iron is naturally occurring, for example one or more of vegetables, legumes, pulses, seeds, cereals and / or fruits, such as one or more of lentils, spinach, wheat flour, oat bran, or soy flour, and wherein a second portion of the iron in the additional composition has been exogenously added as a fortificant in the additional composition, such that the additional composition is an iron-fortified composition.Claim 25: The method of any of claims 14 to 24, wherein at least a portion of the iron is from a natural source, and preferably at least about 2 wt.%, at least about 5 wt.%, at least about 10 wt.%, at least about 20 wt.%, at least about 30 wt.%, at least about 40 wt.%, at least 50 wt.%, at least about 60 wt.%, at least about 70 wt.%, at least about 80 wt.%, at least about 90 wt.% or even about 100 wt.% of the total iron for which absorption is increased is naturally occurring in food or a diet combined with the milk-based composition and / or consumed separately from the milk-based composition.Claim 26: The method of any of claims 14 to 25, wherein the individual, to whom the milk-based composition, preferably low sugar, low lactose milk-based composition, is administered, is selected from the group consisting of adults; older adults; pregnant or lactating women; menopausal or perimenopausal women; infants; children; and subjects consuming a vegetarian diet, a flexitarian diet, a vegan diet or any type of plant-based diet.

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