WHAT IS LACTOFERRIN?
Lactoferrin is an iron binding glycoprotein which has a range of bioactive functions such as antibacterial and antiviral effects. Evidence has shown lactoferrin may have useful biological functions for infants and children in promoting the establishment of immune-supporting functions [1].
HEALTH BENEFITS OF LACTOFERRIN
- ANTIBACTERIAL
Lactoferrin antibacterial activity is attributed to its ability to sequester iron, an element necessary for the growth and proliferation of microorganisms in body fluids [2,3]. - ANTIVIRAL
Lactoferrin consumption may protect the host from viral infections through inhibiting the attachment of a virus to the cells, replication of the virus in the cells, and enhancement of systemic immune functions [4].
LACTOFERRIN CONTENT IN PĀMU DEER MILK
In 2024, four samples of raw deer milk were tested for lactoferrin with an average result of 260 mg/L, compared to cow’s milk 20 – 200 mg/L [5], up to 13 times higher. After milk was processed into powder, four deer milk powder samples were tested. All testing was completed at Agresearch using High Performance Liquid Chromatography. Results are as follows:
| Lactoferrin Found | Average Quantity per 100g |
|---|---|
| Pāmu Deer Milk Powder* | 14.2mg |
| Regular Cow Whole Milk Powder** | Not Detected |
*When reconstituted according to directions
** Just one brand of cow’s milk powder was tested for the initial study
REFERENCES
(1) Manzoni P (2016) Clinical Benefits of Lactoferrin for Infants and Children. The Journal of Paediatrics Jun:173 Suppl: S43-52.
(2) Trybek et al (2016). The Biological Properties of Lactoferrin. Central European Journal of Sport Sciences and Medicine | Vol. 15, No. 3/2016: 15–25.
(3) Kell DB, Heyden EL and Pretorius E (2020) The Biology of Lactoferrin, an Iron-Binding Protein That Can Help Defend Against Viruses and Bacteria. Front. Immunol. 11:1221.
(4) Wakabayashi H., Oda, H., Yamauchi, K., & Abe, F. (2014). Lactoferrin for prevention of common viral infections. Journal of Infection and Chemotherapy, 20(11), 666-671.
(5) Park et al (2013) – Milk and Dairy Products in Human Nutrition: Production, Composition and Health.
The information provided in this technical bulletin has been provided in good faith and is believed to be accurate at the time of publication. The user of the product must make their own investigations into the product. Landcorp Farming Limited (and its employees, agents, contractors and advisers) makes no representation or warranty in respect to the product or its suitability for a specific use. Due to the continuous nature of product improvement bulletins are subject to change without notice.