A Closer Look at the Nutritional Profile
Bear Brand, a well-known milk brand, offers several variants, including fortified powdered milk, sterilized milk, and specialized adult formulas. The most common and heavily fortified product is the powdered milk drink, which is explicitly developed to combat micronutrient deficiency. A single serving is designed to provide a significant boost of essential vitamins and minerals.
Key Vitamins in Bear Brand Fortified Milk
One of the primary benefits of Bear Brand's fortified formula is its generous vitamin content. These additions help support overall health and specific bodily functions.
- Vitamin C: Fortified versions, like the one aimed at children aged three and up, are formulated to meet 100% of the daily Vitamin C requirements per glass. This powerful antioxidant is crucial for strengthening the immune system and helping the body fight off illnesses.
- Vitamin D: Alongside calcium, Vitamin D is a key nutrient for developing and maintaining strong bones. The fortified powdered milk drink contains 100% of the recommended daily intake of Vitamin D, supporting muscle and bone strength.
- Vitamin A: Important for vision and immune health, Vitamin A is another essential nutrient added to the fortified milk.
- B-Vitamins (B1, B2, B6, B12): These vitamins play a vital role in energy release from food, helping to reduce tiredness and fatigue. Some variants, such as the 'Adult Plus' formula, are specially formulated with a high percentage of B-vitamins.
Essential Minerals for Body and Immunity
The fortification process adds a significant amount of minerals that are often lacking in many diets, particularly in children and growing adults.
- Iron: Bear Brand is notably rich in iron, a critical component for healthy blood and development. The fortified powdered milk drink contains a high source of iron, with recent reformulations tripling the available iron content based on absorption rate studies.
- Zinc: Often paired with iron and Vitamin C, zinc is another mineral vital for a strong immune system. Many variants offer high levels of zinc to help bolster the body's resistance to illness.
- Calcium: As a dairy product, Bear Brand is naturally a good source of calcium, but fortification further enhances this. Calcium is fundamental for building and maintaining strong bones and teeth.
Macronutrients: The Building Blocks
Beyond the fortified additions, Bear Brand milk provides the foundational macronutrients found in milk.
- Protein: An essential macronutrient for growth and repair of body tissues, including muscles. The milk contains a healthy amount of protein to support muscle development and maintenance.
- Carbohydrates: This provides the body with energy, which is essential for daily activities.
- Fats: Some variants, like the full cream and sterilized milk, contain fat, providing a source of energy and essential fatty acids.
A Comparison of Bear Brand Milk Variants
The nutritional profile can differ across the different Bear Brand products. Here is a simplified comparison focusing on key nutrients.
| Feature | Fortified Powdered Milk Drink | Sterilized Full Cream Milk | Adult Plus Powdered Milk | Fortified Choco Milk Drink |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Target Audience | Children (3+ years) | All ages | Adults (19-29 years) | Children (3+ years) |
| Key Minerals | High in Iron, Zinc, Calcium | Contains Calcium, Zinc | High in Calcium, Iron, Zinc | High in Iron, Zinc, Calcium |
| Key Vitamins | 100% Vit C & D, Vit A, B-Vitamins | B-Vitamins, Vit A | 100% Vit C & B-Vitamins, Vit D | Vit A, C, D, B-Vitamins |
| Primary Benefit | Immunity and bone strength | General nutrition, creamy taste | Adult strength, energy, immunity | Immunity and bone strength, choco taste |
| Format | Powder | Liquid (Ready-to-drink) | Powder | Powder |
The Importance of Fortification
Fortification is a process of adding vitamins and minerals to food products to enhance their nutritional value. The added nutrients are often those that might be deficient in a population's regular diet. For example, Bear Brand's focus on iron, zinc, and vitamin C directly addresses common micronutrient deficiencies and supports the immune system. The fortification makes the product more than just a source of milk—it becomes a targeted nutritional supplement.
Conclusion: More Than Just Milk
In summary, Bear Brand milk offers a rich nutritional profile, particularly in its fortified variants. The specific nutrients vary by product, but key ingredients commonly include iron, zinc, calcium, and essential vitamins like A, C, D, and various B-vitamins. These nutrients work together to support strong bones, bolster the immune system, and provide energy, making it a popular choice for families seeking a nutritional boost. Always remember to check the specific packaging for the exact nutritional content of the variant you are consuming. For more information on nutritional guidelines, you can consult reliable sources like the Philippine Food and Nutrition Research Institute (FNRI).
