Abstract: The invention is directed to an improved infant formula containing a lipid blend that softens the firmer stools associated with typical infant formula. A specific formula in accordance with the invention comprises carbohydrates, proteins, vitamins and minerals and a lipid mixture of high oleic safflower oil, soy oil and coconut oil at specific levels and ratios. The invention also discloses novel mixtures of fatty acids that provides infant stool patterns more closely resembling the breast-fed infant.

Abstract: The invention is directed to an improved infant formula containing a lipid blend that softens the firmer stools associated with typical infant formula. A specific formula in accordance with the invention comprises carbohydrates, proteins, vitamins and minerals and a lipid mixture of high oleic safflower oil, soy oil and coconut oil at specific levels and ratios. The invention also discloses novel mixtures of fatty acids that provides infant stool patterns more closely resembling the breast-fed infant.

Abstract: Enteral formulas that contain long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), e.g., arachidonic acid (AA), and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), essentially free of cholesterol, are described for use in methods for reducing the incidence of necrotizing enterocolitis. Compositions from egg yolk lipids are preferred as they contain &ohgr;-6 and &ohgr;-3 long chain PUFAs and are predominantly in a phosphtidylcholine form. This is believed to provide a synergetic effect.

Abstract: The invention is directed to an improved infant formula containing a lipid blend that softens the firmer stools associated with typical infant formula. A specific formula in accordance with the invention comprises carbohydrates, proteins, vitamins and minerals and a lipid mixture of high oleic safflower oil, soy oil and coconut oil at specific levels and ratios. The invention also discloses novel mixtures of fatty acids that provides infant stool patterns more closley resembling the breast-fed infant.

Abstract: The invention is directed to an improved infant formula containing a lipid blend that softens the firmer stools associated with typical infant formula. A specific formula in accordance with the invention comprises carbohydrates, proteins, vitamins and minerals and a lipid mixture of high oleic safflower oil, soy oil and coconut oil at specific levels and ratios. The invention also discloses novel mixtures of fatty acids that provides infant stool patterns more closely resembling the breast-fed infant.

Abstract: Enteral formulas that contain long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), as arachidonic acid (AA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) that are essentially free of cholesterol, are described. More particularly, the invention relates to methods for reducing the incidence of necrotizing enterocolitis by administering compositions which provide .omega.-6 and .omega.-3 long chain PUFAs, phospholipids and/or choline. Compositions from egg yolk lipids are presently preferred as they contain .omega.-6 and .omega.-3 long chain PUFAs and are predominantly in a phosphtidylcholine form. This is believed to provide a synergistic effect.

Abstract: Enteral formulas that contain long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) and a process for making such enteral compositions are described. More particularly, the invention relates to enteral compositions which provide long chain PUFAs arachidonic acid (AA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) essentially free of cholesterol and may be derived from egg yolk lipids, and thus are predominantly in a phospholipid form. The process of making such a composition provides improved organoleptic and stability properties. Enteral compositions according to this invention may be used to feed infants, particularly pre-term infants, to promote neural development and development of visual acuity, and to reduce the incidence of necrotizing enterocolitis.

Abstract: A novel liquid nutritional for use as an infant formula for use in the treatment of infantile colic is disclosed. The formula comprises protein, fat, carbohydrates and dietary fiber of a concentration of between 3.1 and 14.1 grams of fiber per liter of formula. Specific preferred protein, fat, carbohydrate and fiber sources are disclosed. Also disclosed is a method of treating infants with colic by feeding an infant the formula made in accordance with the invention. Also disclosed is a method for manufacturing the infant formula of the invention.