Choosing a formula can feel overwhelming. Every brand has long ingredient lists, scientific claims and promises about what makes theirs different.
At Haven, we think the better question isn't "what's in it?" It's "why is it in there?"
Every ingredient in our formulas has been chosen with purpose. Some have been part of infant nutrition for decades. Others reflect newer advances in nutritional science. Together, they create formulas thoughtfully crafted to support every stage of childhood.
There's no expectation that you understand every ingredient in your child's formula - that's our job. But if you're curious about the thinking behind Haven, we've shared it below.
A2 Whole Milk | Goat Whole Milk | DHA & ARA | Prebiotics | Probiotics | Gentle
Oil Blend | Lutein
Every Haven cow milk formula begins with New Zealand whole milk.
We start with carefully selected New Zealand whole milk from pasture raised cows, chosen specifically for their A2 genetics. Using whole milk means we naturally retain components such as milk fat globule membrane (MFGM), alongside the wholesome dairy nutrition found in milk.
Unlike conventional milk, which contains a mixture of A1 and A2 beta-casein proteins, Haven's cow milk formulas contain only the A2 beta-casein protein.
Understanding A2 milk
Milk naturally contains a protein called beta-casein, which exists in two main forms: A1 and A2.
Most conventional cow's milk contains both. A2 milk comes from cows that naturally produce only the A2 beta-casein protein due to their genetics.
Researchers have explored whether these proteins are digested differently. During digestion, A1 beta-casein can produce a peptide called beta-casomorphin-7 (BCM-7), while A2 beta-casein does not. Although research continues to evolve, some studies suggest this difference may influence digestive comfort for some people.
Every baby is different, but some families choose A2 milk because they find it to be a gentler option for their child.
Why whole milk matters
Whole milk offers more than just milk fat.
Because Haven begins with New Zealand whole milk, we naturally retain milk fat globule membrane (MFGM) - a naturally occurring component of milk fat also found in breast milk.
MFGM has been extensively researched for its potential role in supporting cognitive development, immune function and gut health. While research continues to evolve, we believe preserving naturally occurring milk components wherever possible is a thoughtful approach to formula design.
It's one of many reasons we choose whole milk as the foundation of every Haven cow milk formula.
A thoughtful choice
A2 milk still contains lactose and is not suitable for babies with a diagnosed cow's milk protein allergy.
However, for families looking for a cow milk formula made with only the A2 protein, Haven offers another thoughtful choice.
Our promise on science
Nutrition science is always evolving, and so are we. We regularly review emerging research and formulate Haven based on the balance of current evidence - not trends or headlines. Parents who'd like to explore the research further may find these publications helpful:
1. Brooke-Taylor S, Dwyer K, Woodford K, Kost N. Systematic Review of the Gastrointestinal Effects of A1 Compared with A2 β-Casein. Adv Nutr. 2017.
2. Ho S, Woodford K, Kukuljan S, Pal S. Comparative effects of A1 versus A2 β-casein on gastrointestinal measures. Eur J Clin Nutr. 2014.
3. Sheng X, Li Z, Ni J, Yelland G. Effects of conventional milk versus milk containing only A2 β-casein on digestion in children. J Pediatr Gastroenterol Nutr. 2019.
4. Giribaldi M, et al. A2 Milk and BCM-7 Peptide as Emerging Parameters of Milk Quality. Nutrients. 2022.
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A2 Whole Milk | Goat Whole Milk | DHA & ARA | Prebiotics | Probiotics | Gentle
Oil Blend | Lutein
Every Haven goat milk formula begins with carefully selected New Zealand whole goat milk.
Goat milk has been part of infant nutrition for generations and offers a naturally different nutritional profile to cow's milk. It naturally contains only the A2 beta-casein protein and has a unique protein and fat structure that continues to attract scientific interest for its potential digestive benefits.
While every baby is different, many families choose goat milk because they are looking for a naturally gentle alternative to traditional cow's milk formulas.
Understanding goat milk
Although goat and cow milk provide many of the same essential nutrients, they differ naturally in several ways.
Goat milk:
- Naturally contains only the A2 beta-casein protein.
- Forms a softer curd during digestion than conventional cow's milk.
- Contains smaller fat globules and a higher proportion of medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which are more readily digested and absorbed.
Together, these naturally occurring characteristics contribute to goat milk's unique nutritional profile and are the focus of ongoing research into infant digestion and tolerance.
Why whole milk matters
Haven formulas begin with New Zealand whole goat milk, allowing us to naturally retain components found in milk fat, including milk fat globule membrane (MFGM).
MFGM is a naturally occurring structure made up of phospholipids, proteins and healthy fats that is also found in breast milk. It has been widely studied for its potential role in supporting cognitive development, immune function and gut health.
While no single ingredient defines a formula, preserving naturally occurring milk components like MFGM is one of the thoughtful choices we make when selecting our ingredients.
Naturally occurring goodness
Goat milk also contains naturally occurring oligosaccharides and other bioactive compounds that continue to be studied for their potential role in supporting the developing gut microbiome and immune system.
Alongside high-quality protein, calcium and phosphorus, these naturally occurring components are one of the reasons goat milk continues to attract interest in infant nutrition research.
Important to know
Goat milk-based infant formula is not suitable for babies with a diagnosed cow's milk protein allergy (CMPA). Although goat milk proteins differ from those found in cow's milk, there is significant cross-reactivity between them. Goat milk should only be used for infants with CMPA if specifically recommended by a healthcare professional.
Our promise on science
Nutrition science is constantly evolving. We review emerging evidence regularly and formulate Haven based on the balance of current research - not on headlines or trends. Parents who'd like to explore the research in more detail may find these publications helpful:
Continue exploring
A2 Whole Milk | Goat Whole Milk | DHA & ARA | Prebiotics | Probiotics | Gentle
Oil Blend | Lutein
DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) and ARA (arachidonic acid) are two long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids that occur naturally in breast milk.
Rather than thinking about them as separate nutrients, modern infant nutrition considers them a partnership. Together they play important roles in supporting healthy brain development, vision, cellular function and normal growth during infancy.
Because babies have only a limited ability to produce these fatty acids themselves, they rely on breast milk or infant formula as an important dietary source during early life.
Understanding DHA & ARA
DHA is an omega-3 fatty acid, while ARA is an omega-6 fatty acid.
Both are naturally concentrated in rapidly developing tissues, particularly the brain and retina.
In fact, DHA accounts for approximately 97% of the omega-3 fatty acids in the brain and 93% of those found in the retina, highlighting its importance during early development. ARA is equally important, serving as a major structural component of cell membranes and contributing to the formation of neural tissue throughout the body.
Research increasingly shows that these fatty acids work together, rather than independently, to support healthy infant development.
Why DHA & ARA matter
Supporting brain development
The first year of life is one of the most significant periods of brain growth.
DHA forms a major structural component of the brain, while ARA contributes to the formation of neural tissue and healthy cell membranes. Together they help support normal cognitive and neurological development during infancy.
Supporting healthy vision
The retina contains particularly high concentrations of DHA, while ARA contributes to the structure and function of retinal cells.
Together they support the normal development of eyesight throughout infancy.
Supporting healthy growth and development
Beyond the brain and eyes, DHA and ARA are incorporated into cell membranes throughout the body.
ARA also plays a role in cell signalling, immune function and normal inflammatory responses, making both nutrients important for healthy growth during early life.
Understanding the science
Breastfed babies naturally receive both DHA and ARA through breast milk.
Infants have only a limited ability to synthesise sufficient amounts of these fatty acids from precursor nutrients, making dietary intake particularly important during the first year of life.
For babies who are not breastfed, infant formula provides these important fatty acids to help support healthy growth and development. Current international recommendations increasingly recognise that DHA and ARA are best considered together, reflecting the way they naturally occur in breast milk.
Our approach
The DHA in Haven is sourced from Schizochytrium - a naturally occurring marine microalgae.
Our ARA is sourced from Mortierella alpina, a naturally occurring fungus that has been safely used in infant nutrition for many years.
Together, these carefully selected ingredients help provide the balance of long-chain fatty acids we believe is important during early life.
Our promise on science
Nutrition science is constantly evolving. We review emerging evidence regularly and formulate Haven based on the balance of current research - not on headlines or trends. Parents who'd like to explore the research in more detail may find these publications helpful:
1. Koletzko B, Bergmann K, Brenna JT, et al. Should formula for infants provide arachidonic acid along with DHA? A position paper of the European Academy of Paediatrics and the Child Health Foundation.Am J Clin Nutr. 2020;111(1):10-16. doi:10.1093/ajcn/nqz252
2. Carlson SE, Colombo J. Docosahexaenoic Acid and Arachidonic Acid Nutrition in Early Development.Adv Pediatr. 2016;63(1):453-471. doi:10.1016/j.yapd.2016.04.011
3. Decsi T, Marosvölgyi T, Szabó É. Docosahexaenoic Acid in Formulas for Term Infants: The Way from Pioneer Idea to Mandatory Dietary Recommendation.Life (Basel). 2023;13(6):1326. Published 2023 Jun 5. doi:10.3390/life13061326
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A2 Whole Milk | Goat Whole Milk | DHA & ARA | Prebiotics | Probiotics | Gentle
Oil Blend | Lutein
A healthy gut begins long before adulthood.
That's why we include a blend of GOS (galacto-oligosaccharides) and FOS (fructo-oligosaccharides) in our formulas. These prebiotics help nourish the beneficial bacteria that naturally live in the digestive system, supporting the development of a healthy gut microbiome during early life.
The first months of life are an important time for establishing the gut microbiome, which is increasingly recognised as playing an important role in digestion, immune development and overall health.
Understanding prebiotics
Prebiotics are naturally occurring, non-digestible carbohydrates that pass through the digestive system without being broken down.
Rather than feeding your baby directly, they provide nourishment for the beneficial bacteria already living in the gut. By supporting the growth of these beneficial bacteria, prebiotics help create a balanced gut microbiome.
Human breast milk naturally contains a unique group of prebiotics known as human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs), which help shape the infant gut microbiome during early life.
While GOS and FOS are different to HMOs, they are commonly used in infant formula because they help support similar prebiotic functions.
Why prebiotics matter
Supporting a healthy gut microbiome
The gut microbiome is the community of trillions of microorganisms that naturally live in the digestive system.
During infancy, this community is still developing. Establishing a healthy balance of beneficial bacteria during this time is thought to play an important role in long-term digestive and immune health.
Prebiotics provide nourishment for these beneficial bacteria, helping them grow and thrive.
Supporting healthy digestion
By encouraging the growth of beneficial bacteria, prebiotics help create a balanced digestive environment.
Research has shown that prebiotics may support softer stools and healthy bowel function, helping some babies digest formula more comfortably.
Supporting immune development
Around 70% of the body's immune cells are associated with the gut.
Because of this close relationship, scientists believe the development of a healthy gut microbiome during infancy plays an important role in supporting normal immune function.
Although research continues to evolve, prebiotics are recognised as an important component of infant nutrition because of their role in shaping the developing gut ecosystem.
Helping bring formula closer to nature
Breast milk naturally contains a diverse range of prebiotic compounds that help nourish beneficial bacteria.
Although infant formula cannot replicate the complexity of breast milk, adding prebiotics such as GOS and FOS helps more closely support the natural development of the infant gut microbiome.
Understanding the science
GOS and FOS are among the most extensively studied prebiotics used in infant formula.
Clinical research has shown that supplementing infant formula with prebiotics can positively influence the composition of the gut microbiome, encouraging the growth of beneficial bacteria such as Bifidobacteria and Lactobacilli.
Studies have also shown that prebiotic supplementation may help produce stool characteristics that more closely resemble those of breastfed infants and support healthy digestive function during early life.
While research into the infant microbiome continues to grow, prebiotics have become a well-established component of modern infant nutrition.
Our approach
At Haven, we include a carefully balanced blend of GOS and FOS because we believe supporting gut health starts from the very beginning.
Rather than focusing on a single ingredient, we think about how each part of the formulation works together to support growing babies.
Our promise on science
Nutrition science is constantly evolving. We review emerging evidence regularly and formulate Haven based on the balance of current research - not on headlines or trends. Parents who'd like to explore the research in more detail may find these publications helpful:
1. Braegger C, et al. Supplementation of Infant Formula with Probiotics and/or Prebiotics: ESPGHAN Committee on Nutrition Position Paper. Journal of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition. 2011.
2. Shamir R, et al. Prebiotic Oligosaccharides in Dietetic Products for Infants: A Commentary by the ESPGHAN Committee on Nutrition. 2004.
3. Arslanoglu S, Moro GE, Schmitt J, et al.Early Dietary Intervention with a Mixture of Prebiotic Oligosaccharides Reduces the Incidence of Allergic Manifestations and Infections During the First Two Years of Life.Journal of Nutrition. 2008.
4. Ben XM, Li J, Feng ZT, et al. Low Level of Galacto-Oligosaccharide in Infant Formula Stimulates Growth of Intestinal Bifidobacteria and Lactobacilli.World Journal of Gastroenterology. 2008.
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A2 Whole Milk | Goat Whole Milk | DHA & ARA | Prebiotics | Probiotics | Gentle
Oil Blend | Lutein
The first months of life are an important time for the development of your baby's gut microbiome.
Alongside prebiotics, probiotics help support this developing ecosystem by introducing beneficial live bacteria that naturally occur in the digestive tract.
We chose to include the probiotic strain Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus HN001 because it is one of the most extensively researched probiotic strains used in infant nutrition, with a long history of safe use.
Understanding probiotics
Probiotics are live microorganisms that, when consumed in adequate amounts, help support a healthy balance of beneficial bacteria in the gut.
Every baby begins developing their gut microbiome from birth. During the first months of life this microbial community changes rapidly, influenced by factors such as birth, feeding and the surrounding environment.
Supporting the development of a healthy gut microbiome during this time is increasingly recognised as an important part of infant nutrition.
Why probiotics matter
Supporting a healthy gut microbiome
The gut microbiome is home to trillions of microorganisms that play an important role in digestion, metabolism and immune function.
Probiotics help support the balance of beneficial bacteria within this developing ecosystem, particularly during the first months of life.
Supporting healthy digestion
A balanced gut microbiome supports normal digestive function.
Research has shown that certain probiotic strains may help support bowel regularity and digestive comfort in infants, although responses vary from one baby to another.
Supporting immune development
Around 70% of the body's immune cells are associated with the gut.
Because of this close relationship, scientists believe that establishing a healthy gut microbiome during infancy plays an important role in the normal development of the immune system.
The probiotic strain used in Haven has been widely studied for its role in supporting healthy immune development during early life.
One carefully chosen strain
Not all probiotics are the same.
Different probiotic strains have different characteristics and are studied for different health outcomes.
Rather than adding multiple strains, we chose Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus HN001 because it is one of the most extensively researched probiotic strains in infant nutrition and has demonstrated safety in infants across numerous clinical studies.
Understanding the science
Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus HN001 has been investigated in a wide range of clinical studies involving mothers, infants and young children.
Research has explored its role in supporting the development of a healthy gut microbiome, immune function and digestive health during early life.
Like all areas of nutrition science, research continues to evolve. However, HN001 remains one of the best-characterised probiotic strains currently used in infant nutrition.
Our approach
At Haven, we don't believe more probiotic strains automatically make a better formula.
Instead, we chose a single, well-researched strain with a long history of safe use because we believe thoughtful formulation is about choosing ingredients with purpose - not simply adding more.
Our promise on science
Nutrition science is constantly evolving. We review emerging evidence regularly and formulate Haven based on the balance of current research-not on headlines or trends. Parents who'd like to explore the research in more detail may find these publications helpful:
1. Dekker et al. Safety Aspects of Probiotic Bacterial Strains Lactobacillus rhamnosus HN001 and Bifidobacterium animalis subs. lactis HN019 in human infants aged 0-2 years. International Dairy Journal. 2009. 149-154. Vol 19. Issue 3.
2. Wickens K, Stanley T, Mitchell E, et al. O09 - Early supplementation with Lactobacillus rhamnosus HN001 reduces eczema prevalence to 6 years: does it also reduce atopic sensitisation?.Clin Transl Allergy. 2014.
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A2 Whole Milk | Goat Whole Milk | DHA & ARA | Prebiotics | Probiotics | Gentle
Oil Blend | Lutein
Fat is one of the most important nutrients in infant nutrition.
It provides energy for growing bodies, supports brain and eye development, helps build healthy cell membranes and enables babies to absorb fat-soluble vitamins including vitamins A, D, E and K.
No single oil can provide the balance of fatty acids needed during infancy.
That's why infant formulas use carefully selected blends of oils to provide essential fatty acids in proportions that more closely reflect the nutritional profile of breast milk.
Rather than relying on a single source of fat, we chose a blend of oils that each contribute something different to the final formulation.
Understanding our oil blend
Our oil blend includes:
Low erucic acid canola oil
Sunflower oil
High oleic sunflower oil
Coconut oil
Each oil has been selected because it contributes a different fatty acid profile, helping create a balanced source of essential fats that support healthy infant development.
Why these oils?
Coconut oil
Coconut oil is naturally rich in medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs).
Unlike longer-chain fatty acids, MCTs are more readily digested and absorbed, providing an easily utilised source of energy during infancy.
Low erucic acid canola oil
The canola oil used in Haven is low erucic acid canola oil (LEAR).
Modern canola has been specifically bred to contain only trace amounts of erucic acid and has been safely used in infant nutrition for decades.
It provides oleic acid together with both omega-3 and omega-6 essential fatty acids, helping create a balanced fatty acid profile within the formula.
Sunflower oil
Sunflower oil contributes linoleic acid, an essential omega-6 fatty acid that babies cannot produce themselves.
Linoleic acid is important for normal growth, cell membrane structure and healthy development throughout infancy.
High oleic sunflower oil
High oleic sunflower oil is naturally rich in monounsaturated fats, particularly oleic acid.
Including high oleic oils helps balance the overall fatty acid profile while supporting the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins including vitamins A, D, E and K.
Understanding the science
Essential fatty acids are exactly that - essential.
The body cannot make them on its own, so they must come from the diet.
During infancy these fatty acids support:
- Brain development
- Eye development
- Cell membrane formation
- Healthy growth
- Immune function
Because no single natural fat source provides every fatty acid in the ideal proportions, infant formula uses carefully balanced blends of oils to achieve an appropriate nutritional profile.
Current international infant formula standards are based on decades of nutritional research into infant fat requirements.
Our approach
Whole milk provides a wonderful nutritional foundation, but it doesn't naturally provide all of the essential fatty acids babies need during this important stage of development.
The essential fatty acids babies need for healthy growth - including linoleic acid (Omega-6) and alpha-linolenic acid (Omega-3) - are not present in whole milk in the amounts required for infant nutrition, which is why carefully selected oils are added to infant formula.
Our approach is to start with the goodness of whole milk, then thoughtfully complement it with a carefully balanced blend of plant-based oils. Each oil has been chosen for the specific fatty acids it contributes, helping create a complete nutritional profile that supports healthy growth, brain development and overall wellbeing.
Our promise on science
Nutrition science is constantly evolving. We review emerging evidence regularly and formulate Haven based on the balance of current research - not on headlines or trends. Parent's who'd like to explore the research in more detail may find these publications helpful:
1. Delplanque B, Gibson R, Koletzko B, Lapillonne A, Strandvik B. Lipid Quality in Infant Nutrition: Current Knowledge and Future Opportunities.J Pediatr Gastroenterol Nutr. 2015;61(1):8-17. doi:10.1097/MPG.0000000000000818
2. EFSA NDA Panel (EFSA Panel on Dietetic Products, Nutrition and Allergies), 2014. Scientific Opinion on the essential composition of infant and follow-on formulae. EFSA Journal2014;12(7):3760, 106 pp. doi:10.2903/j.efsa.2014.3760
Continue learning
A2 Whole Milk | Goat Whole Milk | DHA & ARA | Prebiotics | Probiotics | Gentle
Oil Blend | Lutein
Lutein is one of those ingredients many parents haven't heard of until they begin looking more closely at infant nutrition.
It's a naturally occurring carotenoid (a type of plant pigment) found in foods such as eggs and leafy green vegetables. It is also naturally present in breast milk, making it an ingredient we felt belonged in our formulation.
Lutein has been widely studied for its role in supporting eye health and, more recently, its potential contribution to healthy brain development during infancy.
Understanding lutein
Lutein belongs to a family of naturally occurring plant compounds called carotenoids.
It is highly concentrated in the retina - the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye - where it acts as an antioxidant and helps filter high-energy blue light.
Interestingly, the retina is considered an extension of the brain, which has led researchers to explore lutein's role in both visual and cognitive development.
Lutein is also one of the predominant carotenoids found in the infant brain, suggesting it may play an important role during periods of rapid growth and development.
Why lutein matters
Supporting healthy vision
Lutein accumulates naturally in the retina, where it helps absorb blue light and protects delicate eye tissues from oxidative stress.
Because the eyes continue to develop throughout infancy, researchers believe adequate lutein intake may help support normal visual development.
Supporting brain development
Lutein is the most abundant carotenoid found in the infant brain.
Although research is still evolving, studies suggest lutein may contribute to normal cognitive development by supporting the structure and function of developing neural tissue.
Researchers continue to investigate its potential role in learning, memory and visual processing throughout childhood.
A natural antioxidant
Growing babies have high metabolic demands, making antioxidant protection particularly important.
Lutein acts as a natural antioxidant, helping protect cells from oxidative stress.
Researchers have also suggested it may help protect DHA - an important structural fat found in the brain and eyes - from oxidation.
Understanding the science
Unlike many nutrients, the body cannot produce lutein on its own.
Instead, it must come from the diet.
Breastfed babies receive lutein naturally through breast milk, while infant formula can provide lutein through carefully selected natural sources.
Although research into lutein continues to evolve, its naturally high concentration in the infant retina and brain makes it an increasingly important area of infant nutrition research.
Our approach
The lutein in Haven is naturally derived from marigold flowers (Tagetes erecta).
Marigolds are naturally rich in lutein, which is carefully extracted before being blended into our formula.
Because lutein is a naturally yellow-orange plant pigment, you may occasionally notice tiny yellow specks in the powder. This is completely normal and simply reflects the natural source of the lutein we use.
Our promise on science
Nutrition science is constantly evolving. We review emerging evidence regularly and formulate Haven based on the balance of current research - not on headlines or trends. Parents who'd like to explore the research in more detail may find these publications helpful:
3. Zhang Y, Dawson R, Kong L, Tan L. Lutein supplementation for early-life health and development: current knowledge, challenges, and implications.Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr. 2025;65(16):3096-3111. doi:10.1080/10408398.2024.2357275
4. Beluska-Turkan K, Korczak R, Hartell B, et al. Nutritional Gaps and Supplementation in the First 1000 Days.Nutrients. 2019;11(12):2891. Published 2019 Nov 27. doi:10.3390/nu11122891
