Lactum 1 and Lactum 3 are types of infant formula designed for babies with different nutritional needs. Knowing how to properly mix each type ensures your baby gets the right amount of nutrients to support growth and development. This article provides step-by-step instructions on how to mix both Lactum 1 and Lactum 3. We’ll cover water measurements, scoop sizes, mixing techniques, storage guidelines and more. Read on for everything you need to know about mixing these specialty formulas correctly.
What is Lactum 1?
Lactum 1 is an infant formula designed for babies with lactose intolerance or galactosemia, conditions that make it difficult to digest lactose sugar properly. Lactum 1 contains corn syrup solids rather than lactose as its carbohydrate source. It has added medium chain triglyceride (MCT) oil to be easier to digest and absorb. The protein in Lactum 1 comes from casein rather than whey. This formula is lactose-free, sucrose-free and galactose-free.
What is Lactum 3?
Lactum 3 is a speciality preterm infant formula designed for premature or low birth weight babies who need extra calories and nutrients. It contains higher amounts of protein, minerals like calcium and phosphorus, and medium chain triglycerides than standard infant formulas. The whey-to-casein protein ratio is 60:40, and the fat source is a blend of MCT oil, soy, coconut and sunflower oils. Lactum 3 helps meet the increased nutritional demands of premature infants.
How to Prepare Lactum 1
Follow these steps to properly mix a bottle of Lactum 1 formula:
1. Clean and sanitize bottle feeding equipment
Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water. Clean bottle nipples, caps, rings and bottles in hot soapy water and rinse thoroughly. Sterilize all equipment by boiling in water for 5 minutes, steaming or using a dishwasher.
2. Use proper Lactum 1 scoop
Lactum 1 powder comes with its own specific scoop. Make sure to use the Lactum 1 scoop included and not a standard formula scoop, as the measurements differ. The Lactum 1 scoop holds 9 grams of powder.
3. Measure water
Pour the desired amount of nursery water or distilled water into the bottle according to the ratios below:
- 2 fl oz (59 ml) water per 1 level Lactum 1 scoop (9 g powder)
- 4 fl oz (118 ml) water per 2 level Lactum 1 scoops
- 6 fl oz (177 ml) water per 3 level Lactum 1 scoops
- 8 fl oz (237 ml) water per 4 level Lactum 1 scoops
Use a clean measuring cup specifically for hot water to measure the water before pouring it into the bottle.
4. Add powder and shake well
Add the correct number of level, packed Lactum 1 scoops to the prepared bottle of water. Cap the bottle and shake vigorously up and down for 30 seconds until the powder is fully dissolved.
5. Double check water and powder amounts
Visually inspect the prepared formula to make sure the measurements look accurate and the powder is fully dissolved without any clumps.
How to Prepare Lactum 3
Here are the steps for properly mixing a bottle of Lactum 3 preterm infant formula:
1. Sterilize all bottle feeding equipment
Wash bottles, nipples, caps and other parts in hot soapy water. Rinse thoroughly. Sterilize by boiling, steaming or using the dishwasher.
2. Use the Lactum 3 scoop provided
The Lactum 3 powder includes a specific scoop that measures 4.8 grams of powder. Only use the Lactum 3 scoop, not a standard formula scoop.
3. Measure proper amount of water
Pour the desired quantity of nursery water or distilled water into the bottle based on the ratios below:
- 1 fl oz (30 ml) water per 1 level Lactum 3 scoop (4.8 g powder)
- 2 fl oz (59 ml) water per 2 level Lactum 3 scoops
- 3 fl oz (89 ml) water per 3 level Lactum 3 scoops
- 4 fl oz (118 ml) water per 4 level Lactum 3 scoops
Use a clean measuring cup designated for hot liquids to measure the water before adding to the bottle.
4. Add powder and mix thoroughly
Put the right number of packed, level Lactum 3 scoops into the prepared bottle of water. Place cap tightly on bottle and shake up and down vigorously for 30 seconds until powder fully dissolves.
5. Confirm proper mixing
Double check the bottle to make sure the water and powder amounts look correct and that the formula is well-mixed without any clumps.
Tips for Proper Mixing Technique
Here are some helpful tips to ensure you correctly mix both Lactum 1 and Lactum 3 formulas:
- Always use the scoop included with the specific Lactum powder
- Level off the top of the scoop with a knife for an exact measurement
- Pack down the powder firmly in the scoop to get the proper amount
- Use hot water around 158°F to help dissolve the powder
- Shake the bottle well for at least 30 seconds after adding powder
- Mix only one bottle of formula at a time to prevent waste
- Discard any unused mixed formula within one hour
- Don’t try to remix any remaining formula in bottle after baby eats
Following the measurements precisely and mixing thoroughly ensures your baby gets the full nutrition these speciality formulas provide.
Storing Prepared Lactum 1 and Lactum 3
Proper storage prevents bacterial growth in mixed infant formula. Follow these guidelines for storing prepared Lactum 1 and Lactum 3:
- Seal bottle and refrigerate immediately after mixing
- Use prepared formula within 24 hours
- Discard any unused portion after 1 hour from when baby began feeding
- Do not save or reuse leftover formula
- Store prepared bottles towards the back of the refrigerator
- Never freeze or re-heat infant formula once prepared
Adhering to safe storage times ensures the formula retains its nutritional value and helps prevent foodborne illness.
Signs Formula is Mixed Incorrectly
Look out for these signs that your Lactum 1 or Lactum 3 formula may be improperly mixed:
- Clumps or dry powder visible in the formula
- Formula appears overly watery or runny
- Formula smells rancid or rotten
- Baby spits up or refuses the bottle more than usual
- Foamy appearance and lots of bubbles in the formula
- Separation between liquid and solids in the formula
If you notice any of these warning signs, discard the mixed formula and make a new bottle, ensuring careful measuring and thorough mixing. Never give your baby improperly mixed formula that could upset their stomach or fail to provide full nutrition. Contact your pediatrician if concerns about mixing technique persist.
FAQs About Mixing Lactum Formulas
Can you mix Lactum powder with breast milk?
No, Lactum 1 and Lactum 3 should only be mixed with water according to the manufacturer’s instructions. They are not formulated to be combined with breast milk. Always use the specific Lactum scoops provided to ensure proper mixing.
Do you have to use hot water to mix it?
Hot water around 158°F helps dissolve Lactum powder more easily, but you can use lukewarm or room temperature water if needed. Make sure to shake vigorously for the full 30 seconds no matter what temperature water you use.
Can you reheat prepared infant formula?
Never reheat prepared formula that has cooled or has been refrigerated. Reheating can cause dangerous bacterial growth. Always discard formula left over an hour after baby begins eating. Make fresh bottles as needed.
Is it ok to round up on scoops or water amounts?
No, it’s important to precisely measure both water and powder using the specific Lactum scoops provided and proper water ratios. Adding extra water or powder can impact the nutritional value. Stick to exact measurements every time.
Can you mix formula in advance to save time?
Preparing bottles in advance is not recommended, as bacteria can grow quickly in mixed formula. Only make enough formula for one feeding at a time. Store prepared bottles in the fridge and discard after 1 hour to limit contamination risk.
Conclusion
Mixing Lactum 1 and Lactum 3 takes precision and care to ensure your baby gets the full benefits. Follow all preparation and storage steps closely, use the speciality scoops provided, measure water and powder precisely, mix thoroughly and stick to strict storage time limits. Proper mixing provides your baby the extra nutrition they need while keeping the formula safe to drink. With some practice, you’ll become a pro at mixing both specialty formulas correctly.
