About this ingredient
Ingredients
Lactoferrin is a naturally occurring iron-binding glycoprotein belonging to the transferrin family. It is found in milk, including human breast milk and bovine milk, as well as various mucosal secretions. Commercial supplements commonly use bovine lactoferrin, often sourced from milk or bovine colostrum. The exact source, purity, concentration, and additional ingredients depend on the specific product.
Lactoferrin is a multifunctional iron-binding protein naturally present in milk and other body secretions. It belongs to the transferrin family and can bind ferric iron, helping regulate the availability of free iron. Lactoferrin is particularly abundant in early breast milk and is also naturally present in bovine milk.
Lactoferrin is commonly included in nutritional supplements because of its distinctive iron-binding and protein-related properties. Commercial products may use purified bovine lactoferrin or lactoferrin derived from bovine colostrum. Some formulations provide lactoferrin as a standalone ingredient, while others combine it with vitamins, minerals, probiotics, or other nutritional compounds.
Lactoferrin supplements may be available as capsules, tablets, powders, or combination nutritional formulas. Because products can differ in source and concentration, consumers should check whether the product contains bovine or another source of lactoferrin, the amount per serving, additional ingredients, and relevant allergen information.