Soy formula

Soy formula, also called soy-based infant formula, is a commercial product that substitutes for human breast milk. It uses processed soybeans as its protein source and is sold as a powder or a liquid. It is usually free of lactose and carries a different sugar instead. The article warns that infants who cannot tolerate the protein in cows milk may also react to soy protein, and that soy protein and the plant compound phytic acid both inhibit iron absorption, so the product is fortified with iron. According to the lead, China and Vietnam regulate soy-based formulas to include a compound called NaFeEDTA to improve iron uptake, and the iron compound is encapsulated so that it does not darken the formula.