Micronized Lactose Infant Formula Powder for Free-Flow Dispensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing infant formula powders face challenges with nutritional and microbiological properties, particularly in achieving improved flow properties to prevent lumping and cohesion during dispensing, while adhering to regulatory nutrient requirements and avoiding the use of non-approved ingredients.
Innovation Solution
Incorporation of micronized lactose or lactose microcrystals with a size less than 10 micrometers to enhance the flowability of infant formula powder compositions, maintaining compliance with regulatory standards by using an approved nutrient.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional infant formula powder is used, then nutritional requirements are met, but flow properties are poor causing lumping and cohesion during dispensing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by modifying the particle size of lactose from conventional larger particles to micronized particles with D50 between 4-10 micrometers. This parameter change in particle size improves flow properties and prevents lumping while maintaining nutritional integrity and regulatory compliance.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a composite powder formulation combining micronized lactose with other infant formula ingredients (proteins, fats, vitamins, minerals). This composite approach leverages the excellent flow properties of micronized lactose to improve overall mixture flowability without compromising nutritional requirements.
2Ease of operation
If free-flowing agents are added to improve flow properties, then dispensing becomes easier, but non-approved ingredients are introduced violating regulatory standards
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by using micronized lactose, which is already an essential nutrient component of infant formula, to provide the free-flowing effect. The lactose serves dual purposes: maintaining nutritional value and improving flow properties, eliminating the need for separate free-flowing agents.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent demonstrates multi-functionality by having micronized lactose serve multiple functions simultaneously: it provides nutritional value as a carbohydrate source, acts as a flow promoter, and prevents lumping during dispensing and storage. This eliminates the need for additional specialized additives.
3Measurement precision
If spoon or scoop dispensing is used, then dosing is possible, but user convenience deteriorates due to hand contact and spoon contamination
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes in particle size (micronized lactose with D50 4-10 micrometers) that enable the powder to flow freely and be dispensed cleanly without requiring spoons or scoops. The improved flow properties allow for easy pouring and dosing while preventing powder adhesion to dispensing tools.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
AI summary
The invention pertains to an infant formula powder composition comprising micronized lactose or lactose microcrystals (i) smaller than 30 micrometer, and/or (ii) of which at least 80 % has a size less than 20 micrometer, and/or (iii) at least 80 % has a size less than 10 micrometer, and/or (iv) having a median particle size D50 below 10 micrometer. The invention also pertains to the use of micronized lactose or lactose microcrystals for improving flow of an infant formula powder composition.