Anyone help me understand what is what in this?

[sheeplikessleep]

kellymom.com/momblog/blog-post/milk-vs-formula-under-the-microscope/

Some of the posts below reckon it's fat globules.

[JiltedJohnsJulie]

Ohhh, dunno but like with the comment "no matter what the formula companies claim, its obvously nothing like bm".

[Notanexcitingname]

yes, the round features are fat globules. I'm suprised they are so small in formula, compared to cow's milk, but I can rationalise it in terms of the processing. There will also be casein particles in formula and cow's milk, and human milk protein particles in breastmilk. YOu'd not see those with an optical microscpe, though, certainly not at 200x mag.

(colloid chemist signing in!)

[Notanexcitingname]

Having read the comments, I'd also say I'm fairly certain they are not air bubbles. Air bubbles rarely appear round under OM.

Would also geekily point out that they are fat globules, not cells. and agree with the cooments re live cells, though think you'd need high mag for that!

Love the pics, thanks for sharing

[sheeplikessleep]

thanks for posting. i thought was interesting to see such a stark difference, so interesting to know what it all is!
thanks

[Notanexcitingname]

No problem :) I have to say though, I'm not sure what effect the physical difference (ie the obvious size difference of the fat globules, and others) would have vs the chemical difference (human fat vs vegetable fats).

Though in light of my profession it ,pains me to say it, I think the chemical difference is going to be greater here!

[Notanexcitingname]

actually, I've changed my mind. Physical difference probably is significant. Would love to know more! Perhaps I shall propose it as a research project..