Abstract: The present disclosure provides a nutritional composition, such as a preterm infant formula that includes a protein source comprising whey protein and hydrolyzed casein protein. The whey protein to hydrolyzed casein ratio may be from about 90:10 to about 50:50 by weight. The hydrolyzed casein may have a degree of hydrolysis of from about 20% to about 80%. Additionally, provided are methods for improved gastric emptying and improved digestibility in a target subject, such as a preterm infant. When administered, the nutritional compositions may promote intestinal transit and absorptive capacity. Consequently, better growth and development, especially neurological development of the target subject may be achieved.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to anti-regurgitation nutritional compositions for pediatric subjects and to corresponding methods of administering the anti-regurgitation compositions in order to promote healthy growth and development and to reduce the occurrence of gastroesophageal reflux (GER). The anti-regurgitation nutritional compositions comprise at least one hydrolyzed protein, at least one pectin source and at least one starch, such as a pre-gelatinized starch. These ingredients work synergistically to induce an increase in the viscosity of the nutritional composition in gastric or other acidic environments.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates in part to an emulsion system comprising a waxy starch. The emulsion system is useful, in some embodiments, for incorporation into infant formulas comprising protein equivalent sources, such as formulas designed for individuals with certain protein allergies. Thus, in certain embodiments, the present disclosure relates to a nutritional composition comprising a protein equivalent source comprising a hydrolyzed protein, amino acids, or a mixture thereof, a fat source, a carbohydrate source, and an emulsifier system comprising a waxy starch. The emulsifier system may further include citric acid esters of mono- and di-glycerides or an octenyl succinic acid-modified starch, or both.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to nutritional compositions comprising a prebiotic component for inhibiting adherence of pathogens in the gastrointestinal tract of a subject and to the prebiotic component, which comprises galactooligosaccharide, polydextrose or any mixture thereof. The nutritional compositions of the present disclosure comprise a fat or lipid source, a protein source, and a carbohydrate source comprising an effective amount of the prebiotic component.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to milk-based nutritional compositions comprising lactoferrin and/or a prebiotic component, wherein, when combined, the lactoferrin and prebiotic component may exhibit additive or synergistic beneficial effects on the health and development of a pediatric subject. The disclosure further relates to methods comprising the administration of said milk-based nutritional compositions to pediatric subjects.