Product Introduction

2'-Fucosyllactose, commonly known as 2'-FL, is a type of human milk oligosaccharide (HMO). It is one of the most abundant HMOs found in human milk, and it is a naturally occurring trisaccharide. 2'-FL is composed of L-fucose, D-galactose, and D-glucose. It’s produced commercially through microbial fermentation.

Production Process

The production of 2'-fucosyllactose typically involves microbial fermentation. In this process, a genetically modified microorganism, such as E. coli, is cultured in a bioreactor. The microorganism is engineered to produce 2'-FL from simple sugars. After fermentation, the 2'-FL is isolated and purified through several steps, including filtration, chromatography, and drying to obtain a pure, powdered product [1].

Functions and Effects

2'-Fucosyllactose offers several health benefits, primarily related to gut health and immune modulation. It acts as a prebiotic, fostering the growth of beneficial bacteria like Bifidobacteria in the infant gut [2]. These bacteria help to maintain a balanced gut microbiota, which is essential for digestion and nutrient absorption.

2'-FL also prevents the adhesion of harmful pathogens to the gut lining, reducing the risk of infections [3]. This protection is achieved because 2'-FL acts as a decoy, binding to pathogens and preventing them from attaching to the intestinal cells.

Additionally, 2'-FL supports the development of the immune system. It modulates immune responses and reduces the risk of allergic diseases [4]. Studies have shown that infants fed with 2'-FL-supplemented formula have fewer instances of certain infections and allergic reactions.

Application Scenarios

2'-Fucosyllactose is mainly used in infant formula to mimic the composition of human milk. It is also added to various supplements and food products aimed at improving gut health and immunity. These products include:

  • Infant Formula: As a key ingredient to support gut health and immune development in infants.
  • Dietary Supplements: Included in products designed to promote digestive health and overall well-being.
  • Functional Foods and Beverages: Added to foods and drinks targeting immune support and gut health.

Packaging and Storage

2'-Fucosyllactose is typically packaged in multi-layer kraft paper bags or fiber drums with inner polyethylene liners. The packaging is designed to protect the product from moisture, light, and air. It should be stored in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight and high temperatures, to maintain its stability and quality.

Citations

[1] Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. (2022). Compendium of food additive specifications - Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) - 94th meeting. https://www.fao.org/fao-who-expert-committee-on-food-additives/jecfa/additives/detail/en/c/14333/

[2] Sprenger, N., O’Mahony, L., Menne, F., Griessenböck, A., Steiner, S., & নিজস্ব, M. (2017). The human milk oligosaccharide 2′-fucosyllactose enhances the bifidogenic effect of galactooligosaccharides in vitro. European Journal of Nutrition, 56(4), 1555–1563.

[3] Yu, G., et al. "The human milk oligosaccharide 2'-fucosyllactose modulates CD14 expression in human enterocytes." Glycobiology 22.6 (2012): 825-834.

[4] Vandenplas, Y., Veereman-Wauters, G., De Bruyn, R., Daniëls, N., Devreker, T., Hauser, B., Mascart, F., Navez, J., Noens, L., Van Biervliet, S., & Van Hees, T. (2018). Human milk oligosaccharides: 2’-fucosyllactose and lacto-N-neotetraose in infant formula. British Journal of Nutrition, 119(11), 1223–1234.

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