Milk contains some bioactive compounds in its fatty component, the functions of which are important to the development of nursing infants. The structure of the fatty globule and the bioactive components of the membrane have been linked to proper growth, regulation of the immune system and structural and functional maturing of the intestine. Furthermore, the fatty acids in milk, like some long-chain polyunsaturates, can be conditionally essential and it must be ensured that the nursing infant gets enough of them, as they are required for the development and functioning of the visual, nervous and immune systems. Important among the saturated acids is palmitate in beta position, which plays a part in the bone metabolism and intestinal microbiota. Thus, all these components are being studied and gradually added to infant formula to make its profile more similar to human milk.