Leaning on lutein

Fernleaf just added lutein to its new milk powder formulation for children and modern childhood justifies why.

So, what is lutein? Lutein is a nutrient with antioxidant properties that is able to filter blue light and helps to protect the eyes. But the human body can’t produce lutein, so it must be obtained from either dietary sources like dark, leafy greens and egg yolks, or supplements.

Today’s children are growing up in a very different environment compared to previous generations. They’re spending more time indoors and increasingly engaging with digital screens, making lutein more relevant than ever.

Studies show that current lifestyle trends expose more than 90 per cent of children under the age of five exceeding recommended screen time limits, highlighting the extent of early exposure to digital devices.^[1][2]

As childhood evolves, so must the nutrition that supports them. 

Recognising shifts, supporting evolving needs 

Fernleaf, one of Malaysia’s well-loved family dairy brands, recently introduced the new and improved Fernleaf Formulated Milk Powder for Children, with SmartGro™ nutrition, along with a refreshed look. The SmartGro™ nutrition is developed based on insights into how children are growing up today. 

“What sets this formulation apart is how carefully selected nutrients are combined and balanced to support children’s growth and development,” Lim Siew Poh, Lactalis-Mainland Dairy Marketing Director, Malaysia said. 

The new and improved formulation now comes with lutein, a nutrient for eye protection. Studies have shown DHA & iron supports brain development.^[3][4]

Extending lutein benefits across the brands, the team also recently improved the formulations for Anmum Essential Gold and Anmum Essential to strengthen the nutritional offering to support children’s growth and development. 

But, what happens without lutein? 

From digital eye strain, dryness and irritation, to affecting our circadian rhythm and mood regulation - it may take a toll on the overall wellbeing. 

Due to the blue light (the wavelength of light emitted by electronic devices and artificial lights), it tricks the brain into thinking it is still daytime, disrupting circadian rhythms and leaving us feeling alert instead of going into rest mode. 

Prolonged disruptions of circadian rhythms may contribute to an increased risk of metabolic disorders and mental health conditions. 

That’s why early care matters. And, although customer needs are changing, Fernleaf’s purpose remains unchanged. It continues to support Malaysian families with affordable, trustworthy dairy nutrition that never compromises on quality.     

“We believe good nutrition should not be a luxury, but something every family can have access to, with confidence,” Siew Poh said.

Sources:

1. Raj et al. (2022). Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health,. 19, 3560.
2. See et al. (2002). JUMMEC,. 25(2), 104-113
3. Weiser et al. (2016). Nutrients, 8(2), 99.
4. Ferreira et al. (2019). Pharmaceuticals (Basel), 12(3), 126