What is L-Carnitine?

L-Carnitine is a compound used by mitochondria (the powerhouse of cells) for processing of fats for energy. It is made in the liver and kidney from two amino acids methionine and lysine. The L-version of carnitine is the version found in nature. A D-version is used in animal feeds, but isn’t used in food for humans.  

Carnitine is found in breast milk in amounts that do not vary based on mom’s diet. Infants, especially newborns are not able to make enough carnitine, according to some studies. Therefore, carnitine is considered an indispensable nutrient for infants and is added to infant formula.

For more information about the current issues and controversies about carnitine, see this fact sheet.

Carnitine Requirements in Infant Formula

Multiple health and regulatory organizations recommend that infant formula contain carnitine. For example, the Life Sciences Research Organization, working under the US FDA, recommended in 1998 that carnitine be added to infant formulas at levels similar to breastmilk.  The European Society for Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition has recommended it since 2005.  And the 6th edition of the American Academy of Pediatric Nutrition Handbook (2009) also recommends it be added to infant formula.

Regulations and Safety

Carnitine has a very good safety record. According to a 1989 paper, carnitine was first added to soy formulas in 1986, the same year that the US FDA permitted carnitine supplementation in infant formulas. Milk-based formulas have been adding carnitine since the 1990s.  

Despite many myths about carnitine, the EU requires it to be added to infant formulas made with hydrolyzed milk proteins and soy proteins.

Dietary Considerations

All religious groups, vegans, and vegetarians can consume carnitine.