Investigating the impact of ultra-processed foods on breast milk composition

ASSESSMENT OF THE PRESENCE OF DERIVATIVES OF ULTRA-PROCESSED FOODS IN BREAST MILK- The UFIM (Ultraprocessed Foods In Breast Milk) Project

Observational Federico II University · NCT05889520

This study looks at how eating a lot of ultra-processed foods affects the nutrients in breast milk and what that might mean for babies' health.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment300 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 35 Years
SexFemale
SponsorFederico II University Academic / other
Locations1 site (Naples)
Trial IDNCT05889520 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational project examines the relationship between maternal consumption of ultra-processed foods and the composition of breast milk. It focuses on how dietary exposure to advanced glycation end-products (AGEs) may influence child health outcomes, particularly in relation to malnutrition and allergies. The study aims to gather data on the presence of UPF derivatives in breast milk, which has not been previously documented. By analyzing the dietary habits of breastfeeding Caucasian women, the research seeks to understand the implications of maternal diet on infant health.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are Caucasian women who are exclusively breastfeeding full-term infants.

Not a fit: Patients who may not benefit include non-Caucasian women, those with preterm infants, or mothers with certain chronic health conditions.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved dietary guidelines for pregnant and breastfeeding women, potentially enhancing infant health outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: While there is emerging evidence regarding the effects of maternal diet on infant health, this specific investigation into UPFs and breast milk composition is novel and has not been extensively studied.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

Caucasian women who are breastfeeding full-term infants

Exclusion Criteria:

* Non-Caucasian ethnicity;
* Age \<18 and \>35 years;
* Mothers of preterm children;
* Non-exclusive breastfeeding;
* Mothers suffering from chronic, malignancies, immunodeficiencies, chronic infections, autoimmune, inflammatory bowel disease, celiac disease, genetic-metabolic diseases, cystic fibrosis and other chronic lung diseases, cardiovascular / respiratory / intestinal malformations, neuropsychiatric disorders and pathologies neurological, vegetarian and vegan diet;
* Mothers with tattoos, scars, moles or skin lesions on both forearms.

Where this trial is running

Naples

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Child MalnutritionChild AllergyMaternal Exposure
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.