Infant formula fat linked to early liver changes in pig study

A Virginia Tech pig study found formulas high in medium‑chain fats led to faster liver fat accumulation than formulas with long‑chain fats. The researchers also reported that developing livers showed increases in both fat‑making and fat‑burning pathways.

Researchers at Virginia Tech report that certain fats used in some infant formulas were linked to faster liver fat accumulation in a newborn pig model. The team compared two simplified, nutrition-matched diets that differed only in fat type: one rich in medium‑chain fatty acids (primarily from coconut oil) and one rich in long‑chain fatty acids (from animal fat). Pigs fed the medium‑chain fat formula developed liver fat more quickly, and researchers observed early progression toward inflammatory changes. The study also noted that the developing liver increased both fat production and fat oxidation at the same time, a pattern described as different from typical adult disease. Key findings: - Newborn pigs fed the medium‑chain fat formula accumulated liver fat faster than those fed long‑chain fats, despite receiving the same calories and protein. - Researchers reported visible liver fat within seven days and more pronounced inflammatory changes by about two weeks. - The developing liver showed simultaneous activation of fatty acid synthesis and oxidation, a metabolic state the authors said differs from adult steatotic liver disease. Summary: The study links medium‑chain fats in a formula-like diet to earlier liver fat accumulation in a pig model and describes a distinct metabolic response in the developing liver. The authors emphasized that the findings are intended to inform research and potential formula improvements, and they plan further studies on individual fatty acids and amounts; federal review of formula standards under Operation Stork Speed was noted in the reporting.