1 Institute of Nutrition, University of Uppsala S-75122 Uppsala, Sweden
Breast milk substitutes are used extensively in many countries of the world. They are generally based on milk protein, but formulas containing other protein sources are also marketed. The protein and amino acid adequacy of such formulas are ascertained by comparison with breast milk. Furthermore, the pediatric Committee on Nutrition1 recommends that the protein level of a breast milk substitute should not fall below 1.8 gm/100 kcal if the protein has a PER of at least 100% of casein. If the PER is below that of casein, the protein content of the formula should be increased accordingly, although proteins with PER below 70% of casein should not be used.