Fatty
acid composition of human colostrum and mature breast milk.
RA Gibson and
GM Kneebone
The fatty acid composition of human milk obtained on individual samples
from 120 mothers early (day 3 to 5) and later (day 40 to 45) in lactation
were determined by argentation thin-layer and gas chromatographic
procedures. In comparison with mature milk, human colostrum was characterized
by a lower percentage of saturated fatty acids including medium chain
length acids, a higher percentage of monounsaturates, and a lower
level of linoleic and linolenic acids, but a higher percentage of
their long chain polyunsaturated derivatives. It is concluded that
in view of their levels in breast milk, the polyenoic derivatives
of linoleic and linolenic acids must be taken into account when assessing
infant foods.
The Journal of Cell Biology, Vol 72, 617-627, Copyright 1977 by The
Rockefeller University Press
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