Long Chain Fatty Acids, or LCPs, are part of the omega-3 and omega-6 series, and are important for brain and visual development. Most infant formulae now contain LCPs from one source or another – often from fish oils.

However some brand name formulae do not: for example HiPP Organic baby milks do not contain LCPs (long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids or LCPs), as there are currently no organic sources of LCPs available to use.

There is strong evidence for the addition of LCPs to preterm milk formulas. However, it is not yet known whether healthy infants carried to full term actually benefit from milk being supplemented with these LCPs.

The Infant Formula and Follow-On Formula Regulations 2007 say that LCPs can be added to infant formulas but this is not mandatory.

Babies are able to make some LCPs from other fats in the milk. The enzymes that are required for the synthesis of these fatty acids are usually mature by around 4 months of age. Alternative dietary sources will only be available once a baby is on a mixed diet, but alternatives will then include oily fish, such as mackerel, sardines, salmon.

Supplements of omega 3 oils should only be considered after discussion with a GP or a pharmacist.

Another LCP sometimes added is Gamma-linolenic acid or GLA, another fatty acid from the Omega-6 family, which is found in breastmilk in significant quantites. It is thought that this leads to a reduced risk of asthma and eczema, and so some formula manufacturers have started to add it to their infant formulae.

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