As toddlers transition from infancy, their nutritional choices become more diverse and complex. Here's all you need to know about the advantages of toddler formulas and how they can provide superior nutritional support compared to whole cow's milk—this information will help you make informed decisions about supporting your child's growth and development during this critical stage.

» Discover delicious, plant-based nutritional formulas your toddler will love

Transitioning From Infancy to Toddler Formulas

In the first year, the nutritional choices are straightforward—breast milk is preferred, and infant formula is the next best option. The FDA clearly defines the regulatory requirements for infant formula nutrient content.

» Here's how to easily transition your baby from breastmilk to formula

However, the landscape changes as a child transitions to the toddler years (12-36 months). The nutrient content regulations for toddler formulas are not as well-defined. Yet, manufacturers must still adhere to current FDA good manufacturing practices and ensure accurate labeling and nutrient content throughout the shelf life.

» Explore the best dairy-free toddler formulas

Most toddler formulas are powdered products that mix easily with water to provide a nutrient-rich drink. While there are various formulation choices, many contain proteins or ingredients from cow's milk or soy. Families seeking to avoid dairy or soy have limited options in today's market.

Shifting Consumer Preferences and Demand for Alternatives in the US

Dairy consumption in the US has declined significantly over the years, with the average person consuming 149 pounds of milk in 2018 compared to 247 pounds in 1975—a 60% decrease. Consumers are increasingly gravitating towards full-fat dairy, organic milk, and non-dairy "milks" like almond and coconut, which, in fact, lack the essential nutrients required for child development.

» Here's how to choose dairy-free formula for your little one

This shift in consumer preferences, coupled with growing awareness of dairy allergies and intolerances, has led to a demand for alternative, plant-based nutritional options for children. Recognizing this rising trend, we developed a balanced, nutritious, plant-based, dairy-free, and soy-free formula alternative for toddlers aged 12-36 months.

» Discover the signs showing your kid is lactose intolerant



Else Nutrition's Plant-Based Toddler Formula Alternative

Else Nutrition has developed a novel, patented plant-based formula alternative for toddlers aged 12-36 months. This nutrient-rich formula derives its protein from a proprietary blend of almonds and buckwheat, using a clean, chemical-free process.

» Find out why plant-based toddler nutrition is so healthy

The three core ingredients—almond, buckwheat, and tapioca—make up approximately 92% of the formulation. This 100% plant-based alternative is free of dairy, soy, antibiotics, hormones, gluten, and genetically modified ingredients. The powder formula mixes easily with water to provide a nutritious drink for toddlers.

» Explore a healthier, omega plant-based alternative for your toddler



3 Key Organic Ingredients in Else Toddler Nutrition

Buckwheat, or common buckwheat (Fagopyrum esculentum Moench), is a plant cultivated for its grain-like seeds. It is considered a pseudocereal because it is typically used in a manner similar to cereals.

» Get expert insights on plant-based formula for babies

Buckwheat is a nutritious grain with the following key features:

• Protein content: Approximately 10.6 g per 100 g dry weight, with high levels of essential amino acids like leucine (6.9 g/100 g) and lysine (5.84 g/100 g).
• Buckwheat flour composition: Buckwheat flour contains ~13.25 g of protein per 100 g and is a good source of potassium 460 mg/100 g and iron 2.4 mg/100 g.
• Carbohydrate processing: The buckwheat flour used in the formula contains ~74% carbohydrate. The composition of the carbohydrate is ~25% amylose and 75% amylopectin.

» Understand your child's carbohydrate needs

The buckwheat flour in Else formula is treated with alpha-amylase to digest some of the complex carbohydrates into smaller pieces, such as maltose and dextrins, to facilitate digestion in young children. Total sugar after amylase treatment is only 10% of the total carbohydrate. The alpha-amylase used in the manufacture of the toddler formula breaks down the carbohydrate into smaller pieces.

» Discover the whole Foods difference behind Else Nutrition

California almonds (Prunus dulcis) are blanched to soften the seed coat, which is then removed and ground into a paste or butter and used in the Else formula. Removing the seed coat reduces the phytic acid content to facilitate the absorption of iron and zinc. Almond butter is gluten-free.

The ground almond contains:

• ~28% protein
• 13% carbohydrate (starch)
• 50% fat

» Here's all you need to know about almonds

Almond butter is a rich source of oil (>50% of the almond by weight), with the majority (32%) of the fatty acids as monounsaturated fatty acids and oleic acid (18:1n9). Other fatty acids in almond butter include 13% linoleic acid (18:2n6) and 10% saturated fatty acids, such as palmitic acid (16:0).

Almond protein is highly digestible, and the fiber content has been shown to function as a prebiotic, altering the intestinal microbiota to a favorable profile.

» Understand if vegan formula is safe for babies

Tapioca is commonly used in many foods because of its carbohydrate content and ability to deliver the appropriate viscosity or thickness in a formula. The tapioca used in Else Toddler Nutrition mixes readily with water to provide the appropriate consistency for the formula.

» Find out what to look for and what to avoid in formula ingredients

Could a Child be Allergic to Buckwheat and Almonds?

While any food protein can theoretically cause an allergy, some are more common allergens, especially for young children. These include cow's milk, eggs, wheat, soy, peanuts, tree nuts (like almonds), fish, and seafood.

» Find out more about soy allergy symptoms in kids 

Almond, a tree nut, contains proteins that may trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Similarly, though rare, buckwheat has been reported to cause immediate allergic responses in some people.

» Read more about food allergies in babies



Are toddler formulas recommended by experts?

If the diet of the toddler is well-rounded and meets typical nutrient requirements anticipated from conventional foods (meats, eggs, dairy, plant proteins, fruits, nuts, and vegetables), and anthropometric growth is normal, then additional nutrition in the form of a toddler formula is not a necessity.

However, experts may recommend nutrient-rich toddler formulas or up-age formulas when there is a recognized need for additional nutrients that may be lacking in the toddler's diet.

WCM sold in the United States, has relatively high protein and saturated fat content than is needed for most toddlers. WCM has very little of the dietary essential fatty acid, linoleic acid relative to CODEX standards, expert recommendations and toddler formulas in the market. There is no DHA or AA in cow’s milk. Whole cow’s milk is lacking in many vitamins (E, K, C, and riboflavin and is also deficient in the essential trace mineral iron.

Toddler Formulas for Optimal Nutrition

Toddler formulas are an excellent choice for supporting the nutritional needs of children aged 1-3. These specialized formulas are superior to whole cow's milk in providing essential vitamins, minerals (particularly iron), and other key nutrients and micronutrients (without excessive amounts of protein or saturated fat) that toddlers need for their growth and development.

By feeding your toddler formulas, you can help ensure your kiddo receives a balanced and complete nutritional intake to support their rapid physical and cognitive growth during this critical stage of development.

Else plant-based toddler formula is an excellent choice for families looking for a healthy nutritional option without cow’s milk ingredients or soy ingredients.