Parents in Qatar are increasingly conscious about what goes into their family’s food. From supermarket shelves in Doha to trusted international imports, moms and dads want transparency in the ingredients that nourish their babies. Baby formula is no different, and one ingredient that often raises questions is oils.
You may be surprised to see oils in the ingredient list of infant formulas. Here, we explain why oils are used, what role they play in your baby’s development, and how Kendamil does things differently for families in Qatar.
Why is oil needed in baby milk?
Across the world, strict regulations — including those followed in Qatar — ensure that baby milks meet the same essential balance of fats, carbohydrates, and proteins needed for healthy development. While the ratio is regulated, the source of those nutrients differs by brand.
Most formulas use oils as the entire fat source. At Kendamil, we use fresh whole milk as our primary fat source, and then add small amounts of carefully chosen vegetable oils to ensure the formula contains the essential omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids.
These fatty acids are naturally present in breastmilk but not at sufficient levels in cow’s milk. They are crucial for brain development, visual function, and overall growth, making it important that babies receive them through their diet.
For parents in Qatar, where awareness around early brain and eye development is a key concern, ensuring these nutrients are present in formula is essential.
The Science Behind Omega-3 and Omega-6 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids are called “essential” because our bodies cannot make them; they must come from food.
Omega-3 (DHA)
Supports brain and eye development. DHA is a major structural component of the brain and retina. Without enough DHA, cognitive and visual development may be affected.
Omega-6 (LA – linoleic acid)
Plays a role in growth, immune function, and brain activity.
For babies in Qatar, who grow up in a fast-paced, education-driven environment, these fatty acids are particularly valuable during the early years.
What does Kendamil do differently for families in Qatar?
Most formulas on the market rely heavily on a blend of vegetable oils, such as palm oil, sunflower oil, rapeseed oil, safflower, soy, or coconut oil.
Kendamil takes a different approach:
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Whole milk as the base: Our recipes use whole milk fats, meaning we need to add only a smaller amount of vegetable oil to meet nutritional requirements.
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No palm oil: Many brands still use palm oil (listed as palm olein, palmitic acid, or palmate). At Kendamil, we say no to palm oil because of its links to deforestation, climate change, and habitat loss. Our “no added palm oil” promise is especially meaningful to Qatar families who care about ethical and sustainable sourcing.
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Closer to breastmilk: By combining the goodness of whole milk with carefully selected oils, our formula more closely resembles the natural balance of human milk.
This approach not only provides the nutrition babies need but also aligns with the values of parents in Qatar who want safe, natural, and responsibly sourced ingredients for their children.
Transparency that matters
For families in Qatar, choosing the right formula often comes down to trust. Kendamil is committed to transparency, sustainability, and nutritional integrity. By using whole milk fats, avoiding palm oil, and carefully balancing essential fatty acids, we provide a formula that supports your baby’s growth and development — while reflecting the values you care about.
For more information on our formula ingredients, check out our video:
Have more questions about Kendamil? Reach out to us! Our Customer Support Team have helped thousands of parents and we're here for anything you want to know.
Important Notice
Breastfeeding is best. The WHO infant feeding guidelines recommend exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life to ensure optimal growth, development, and health. Kendamil Follow-on milk is only for babies over 6 months and should be used as part of a mixed diet while continuing breastfeeding up to two years of age or beyond. Always consult your healthcare professional.
