Supplementation with M-16V is specifically beneficial at reducing the risk of allergic disorders in infants as well as protecting the vulnerable preterm infants against premature birth complications such as necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) and sepsis. M-16V has been demonstrated to promote early gut microbial colonization as a means to support healthy growth and to shape a healthy gastrointestinal and immune system. M-16V may involve in the regulation of immune balance and inflammatory response to protect high-risk infants from NEC and allergy.

The administration of M-16V to low or extremely low birthweight infants is clinically shown to be effective at promoting the establishment of bifidobacteria-predominant gut microbiota and protecting newborns from the risks of necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) and sepsis. Since 1994, M-16V has been offered to more than 150 neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) and pediatric departments of the affiliated hospitals in Japan to support healthy growth of babies. In 2012, M-16V has also been used in the NICUs in Australia and more recently, it has been introduced at NICUs in New Zealand and Singapore. Such activity of providing M-16V as food to the NICU is conducted under the supervision of doctors. Morinaga Milk will continue its efforts to provide M-16V to the babies and children all over the world as a means to support healthy growth.