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Palatability of hypoallergenic formulas for cow's milk allergy and healthcare professional recommendation
Author(s) -
Maslin Kate,
Fox Adam T.,
Chambault Marleen,
Meyer Rosan
Publication year - 2018
Publication title -
pediatric allergy and immunology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.269
H-Index - 89
eISSN - 1399-3038
pISSN - 0905-6157
DOI - 10.1111/pai.12979
Subject(s) - hypoallergenic , palatability , medicine , allergy , family medicine , pediatrics , environmental health , immunology , allergen , pathology
Abstract Background Cows ‘milk protein allergy ( CMPA ) is the most common food allergy in infants in the United Kingdom. Infants with CMPA who are not exclusively breastfed require a substitute hypoallergenic formula, which are perceived as having a poor palatability. This study compares the palatability of different extensively hydrolysed formulas ( EHF s) and explores healthcare professional ( HCP ) expectations of how palatability impacts infants and their families. Methods Healthcare professional with experience of CMPA were recruited to take part in a home palatability test of four EHF s [Aptamil Pepti 1, Nutricia Ltd. ( EHF W1); Althera, Nestle Health Science ( EHF W2); Similac Alimentum, Abbott ( EHF C1); Nutramigen LGG 1, Mead Johnson ( EHF C2)] using a blind taste procedure. A randomised, complete block design was used to minimise order and carry‐over biases. Participants completed a questionnaire about the impact of formula palatability on infants and their families. Results A total of 100 HCP s took part (51 dietitians and 49 general practitioners). Overall, whey‐based lactose‐containing EHF s were ranked the most palatable: EHF W1 by 77% of participants and EHF W2 by 20%. EHF W1 was liked significantly more ( P < 0.0001) than the other formulas. The vast majority of participants agreed that better palatability would result in an increased chance of non‐rejection (96%), more content families (92%) and decreased healthcare costs (90%). Conclusion Amongst HCP s who manage infants with CMPA , whey‐based lactose‐containing EHF s were ranked the most palatable. HCP s expected that good palatability would result in better acceptance, more content infants and families, alongside decreased wastage and healthcare costs.