British Life Sciences Collaborates with Shalina Healthcare Providing Infant Formula in African Countries

Bangalore, India, September 16, 2024: In the critical first years of life, proper nutrition serves as the cornerstone for a child's future health and holistic development. The World Health Organization reports that malnutrition contributes to nearly half of all deaths in children under five globally, with a disproportionate impact on developing regions. In Africa, the situation is particularly dire, with 30% of children under five stunted due to chronic malnutrition, according to UNICEF.

These stark statistics highlight the urgent need for effective nutritional interventions.

Against this backdrop, British LifeSciences emerges as a pioneer in the fight against childhood malnutrition. Since its inception in 1992, this global healthcare nutraceutical company has been at the forefront of nutritional innovation, guided by the principle that good health is fundamentally rooted in good nutrition.

British LifeSciences' commitment to children's health is evident in their carefully crafted product line. Each formula results from extensive research designed to address specific nutritional needs at different stages of early childhood development. Their products aim to lay a strong foundation for children's growth and well-being, from supporting brain development with essential fatty acids to strengthening immune systems with vital micronutrients.

Recognising that the challenge of child malnutrition requires collaborative efforts, British LifeSciences forged a strategic partnership with Shalina Healthcare, an Africa-based company renowned for its dedication to accessible healthcare solutions. This alliance was born from a shared vision: to combat nutritional deficiencies among African infants and young children.

The collaboration between British LifeSciences and Shalina Healthcare is more than a business venture; it's a mission to address a critical health crisis. With malnutrition rates in some African countries reaching alarming levels - for instance, 21.4% of preschool children in South Africa suffer from anaemia - their joint initiative aims to make a tangible difference in the lives of millions.

At the heart of this partnership is Optilat, an advanced infant formula range that represents a significant leap forward in addressing the nutritional needs of African children. Optilat is not a one-size-fits-all solution but a carefully designed series of products tailored to different stages of early childhood:

Optilat 1, formulated for infants from birth to six months, is enriched with omega-3 and 6 fatty acids, whey protein, and prebiotics. This combination supports crucial early development, particularly brain growth and digestive health. For newborns in countries like Mali or Somalia, Optilat 1 offers a nutritional safety net during this vulnerable period.

As babies transition to their second half-year, Optilat 2 steps in. This follow-up formula, designed for infants 6-12 months old, focuses on supporting the rapid physical and cognitive development characteristic of this age. With its blend of easily digestible proteins and brain boosting nutrients, Optilat 2 aids in the critical developmental milestones during this time, from first words to first steps.

Optilat 3 caters to toddlers aged 12-24 months, marked by explosive growth and learning. This advanced formula continues to support brain development and overall health, helping to bridge nutritional gaps that are common in many African diets. Whether in urban centres or rural villages, Optilat 3 aims to give toddlers the nutritional support they need to thrive.

Each version of Optilat is manufactured in ISO and GMP-certified facilities, ensuring the highest quality and safety standards. Rich in essential vitamins and minerals, these formulas address common deficiencies in African children.

The rollout of Optilat across more than 20 African countries represents a significant step in addressing childhood malnutrition on the continent. From the bustling cities of Kenya to the remote villages of Burundi, this initiative has the potential to impact millions of young lives, offering a scientifically formulated solution to a long-standing health crisis.

As this collaboration between British LifeSciences and Shalina Healthcare unfolds, it is a testament to the power of combining scientific expertise with local knowledge and distribution networks. It is an endeavour to enter the African market, and alongside it, aiming to rewrite the narrative of childhood nutrition in Africa. By providing essential nutrients during the critical early years, this initiative not only addresses immediate health needs but also invests in the long-term potential of Africa's youngest generation.

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