Rapid Bedside Human Milk Analysis for Nutrient Value
Providing sufficient nutrition for VLBW and ELBW infants is critical to maximize weight gain and assure proper physiological development. It has been shown that as much as half of breast milk samples analyzed in NICUs have had an energy level of less than 20 Calories/oz.
The SpectraStar Neonatal Analyzer allows neonatology professionals to determine the nutritional value of expressed mother's milk so that these at-risk babies can be assured of receiving adequate nutrition. Protein, Lactose and Fat can be determined in the Neonatology Ward so that, if needed, the milk can be properly fortified. The instrument uses less than one CC of milk and provides protein, lactose and fat values in less than 30 seconds. The instrument also calculates caloric value in either Calories/oz or Calories/dL (or other units as required). The SpectraStar Neonatal Analyzer also provides the number of grams of protein (or lactose or fat) supplement required to bring the Calorie level up to chosen values. A standard set of fortification calculations are built into the system, but the user can also program custom calculations as well.
Studies have shown that feeding at-risk infants mother’s milk provides the newborn a better chance of overcoming the many medical challenges they face in the first weeks of life. The nutritional value within human milk can vary significantly within hours and from day to day. The SpectraStar offers a rapid tool for the NICU to quickly test the milk and make the proper fortification. The SpectraStar is an NIR (near infrared) spectrometer reading samples in the 1200nm – 2400nm range. A universal calibration has been developed and is provided with the system. The system is simple to operate with the touch of one button and can be used by anyone in the ward.
The SpectraStar is an exciting new tool that can provide a better chance of survival for our most vulnerable new arrivals to the NICU. The neonatal analyzer for human milk analysis is simple to operate and will provide results on the large touch screen monitor within 30 seconds.
The SpectraStar NIR instrument has been used for many years in the food and dairy industries testing for Fat, Protein, Carbohydrates, Moisture and other constituents. Unity also has a clinical division (AMS in Rome Italy) that has delivered over 6,500 blood analyzers worldwide. We look forward to helping increase the level of neonatal care and to be able to provide the highest level of support possible.
