A Closer Look at DHA and ARA: Their Significance in Children’s Growth and Development

What are DHA and ARA?

DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) and ARA (arachidonic acid) are pivotal fatty acids present in human milk, among other sources.

• DHA, an omega-3 fatty acid, plays a crucial role in the development of the brain, eyes, and nervous system in children.
• ARA, an omega-6 fatty acid, is essential for normal brain development and for the repair and growth of muscle tissue.

Both DHA and ARA are integral to the formation of cell membranes and are vital for the growth and signaling of neural cells in the developing nervous system.

Given the rapid development of children’s brains during infancy and toddler years, DHA and ARA are particularly vital to support growth in the first two years of life. Numerous studies underscore the importance of DHA and ARA for infants and children, highlighting their positive effects on visual and cognitive development.

Why Do We Include Them?

DHA and ARA are important fatty acids for infants. Expert organizations, including the World Health Organization, support the addition of DHA and ARA to infant formula. They advocate for the inclusion of ARA at least double the concentration of DHA to replicate the fatty acid balance.

Moreover, regulatory entities have recognized the necessity of DHA in infant nutrition, underlining its critical role in child development. Research indicates that supplementing infant formula with both DHA and ARA, rather than DHA alone, fosters optimal development.

We ensure the inclusion of DHA and ARA in our Goat Milk Formula, so your child gets the essential nutrients required for their growth and development.

Sources of Kabrita's DHA and ARA

In our Goat Milk Formula, we are transitioning from fish oil to a plant-based source of DHA, derived from Crypthecodinium Cohnii Oil (DHA algal oil). This non-GMO, organic-compliant source ensures a natural and safe option for your baby’s nutrition.

For ARA, we continue to use oil from Mortierella alpina, an approved ingredient for baby formulas. Together, these essential fatty acids support your baby’s brain and eye development while maintaining the high standards you expect from us.

Concerns Regarding Hexane and Bleaching in DHA Production

The extraction of DHA involves processes that ensure the purity and safety of the oil. Despite the initial use of solvents like hexane in the extraction, these are removed during the refining and purification stages, leaving no detectable residues in the final product. The production process includes stringent testing to ensure compliance with safety standards.

The term "bleaching" in the context of oil processing does not refer to the use of household bleach but rather to a filtration process that removes color pigments and oxidation products, ensuring the oil remains clear and free from elements that could cause rancidity. This process is a standard practice in the production of oils for consumption, aimed at ensuring the highest quality and safety of the ingredient.