Milk fat globule membrane ingredients and their potential applications for human health and performance

Abstract

The milk fat globule membrane (MFGM) is a protective membrane natively present in human and bovine milk, surrounding milk fat globules, which contributes to maintaining its stable emulsion by protecting fat from coalescence and oxidation. The composition of the MFGM is highly complex, dependent on a number of intrinsic and extrinsic factors, which can result in significant variation across MFGM ingredients. MFGM is utilised as an ingredient due to its techno-functional properties, which include applications for improved emulsification or encapsulation. However, there is growing interest in its application as a functional ingredient with several proposed health-benefitting properties, particularly for brain development and function, cardiometabolic, musculoskeletal, intestinal and immune health. This review discusses the techno-functional and nutritional properties of the MFGM, highlighting recent clinical evidence, current gaps in knowledge and discussion of its potential application as an ingredient for individuals across the lifespan.