FAQ

  • When do infants start complementary feeding and trying other foods?
  • What are the ages advised for the infant cereal?
  • Where do you source your vitamin D from?
  • Is there Galactose in your product?
  • Why do you add sugar?
  • How long can you use and store Else for after it has been prepared?
  • What is the natural flavors on the cereal? Where does it come from?
  • Why should parents use baby cereal?
  • Can Else Super Cereal be added to a bottle?
  • Is this fortified with iron?
  • What is Super in your product?
  • Can it be mixed with other foods or fruit into it?
  • How many servings a day should babies eat?
  • How can Else Super Cereal be introduced to them?
  • Should almonds be introduced to a baby before giving them this?
  • Should Else Super Cereal be served warm or cold?
  • How long should someone use a cereal pouch from time of opening?
  • What is the source of protein in Else Toddler? Is the quality of this plant-based protein appropriate for toddlers?
  • What makes Else Toddler different from standard toddler formulas?
  • Why do you add sugar?
  • How can Else Toddler be plant-based and still provide the fat profile needed for growth and development?
  • Why isn’t there DHA in your product?
  • What is the breakdown of essential fatty acids in your Else Toddler products?
  • Do Else Toddler Products contain any oil?
  • What’s the difference between Else Toddler products and soy milk?
  • What’s the difference between Else Toddlers products and regular almond milk?
  • Is this a meal replacement or a supplement for formula?
  • How many times a day can my child drink Else Toddler?
  • Can Else Toddler be used in addition to other foods, breast milk etc.? How often should the product be used?
  • If a baby is younger than 12 months old, can they consume Else Toddler?
  • Is Else Toddler Omega suitable for infants?
  • Is Else Toddler Vegan?
  • Is Else Toddler non-GMO
  • What does Else Toddler taste like?
  • What's the difference between Else Toddler and Else Kids Products?
  • What is the difference between Toddler Omega and Toddler Organic?
  • How long can you use and store Else Toddler for after it has been prepared?
  • Can I warm up Else Toddler that’s already mixed and has been in the fridge?
  • What is the source of protein in Else Kids? Is the quality of this plant-based protein appropriate for toddlers?
  • How many times a day can a child drink Else Kids?
  • Can Else Kids be used for weight gain?
  • Do Else Kids products contain more sugar than Else Toddler products because of the flavors they come in?
  • Why do you add sugar?
  • Why do you add sugar?
  • Does the Kids shake also have omega-3 and omega-6?
  • For Halal purposes, are Else Kids flavors processed with alcohol?
  • What’s the difference between Else Kids products and soy milk?
  • What’s the difference between Else Kids products and regular almond milk?

Baby Super Cereal

When do infants start complementary feeding and trying other foods?

The World Health Organization and AAP recommend exclusive breastfeeding through 6 months of age; after this age-appropriate complementary foods are typically introduced under pediatrician supervision. First foods often include iron-fortified baby cereals such as Else Super Cereal as well as pureed fruits or vegetables.  The AAP now recommends early allergen introduction to foods such as tree nuts starting at 6 months of age rather than 2 years of age.

What are the ages advised for the infant cereal?

Cereal may be introduced as a first exposure to complementary foods between 4-6 months, depending on baby’s readiness (being able to control head and neck, sitting up alone or with support, bringing objects to the mouth, swallowing food rather than pushing it back out onto the chin). However, Else Super Cereal is indicated for ages 6+ months.

Where do you source your vitamin D from?

Our Vitamin D is vegan and comes from plant algae.

Is there Galactose in your product?

Galactose is a sugar that is part of lactose.  Else products are dairy/lactose free and therefore galactose free. 

Why do you add sugar?

Else Super cereal, the 1st in the market to be Clean Label awarded, is made of >80% whole food plants and has minimal to no added sugar, with all sugar content naturally originating from powdered fruit and buckwheat.

How long can you use and store Else for after it has been prepared?

Cereal should be prepared immediately before feedings, and any leftover prepared cereal should be discarded after a single feeding. 

What is the natural flavors on the cereal? Where does it come from?

Minimal natural vanilla is added to neutralize taste. Banana and mango “flavors” come from powdered fruit rather than flavoring. 

Why should parents use baby cereal?

Inclusion of iron-fortified cereal on a regular basis is an effective way to supply iron at the beginning of complementary feeding, when the infant's iron stores are depleting. On top of all those, cereals are an excellent choice for transition to solids as they have a mild taste with semi-solid texture and consistency. 

Can Else Super Cereal be added to a bottle?

 The AAP recommends against routine use of cereal in bottles, because it can be a choking hazard and may lead to excessive weight gain. Use of cereal as a thickening agent can cause a change in stool consistency and result in constipation.  Consumers should not put Else Super Cereal into a bottle unless directed by a healthcare professional.

 

Prevalence and Parental Perceived Efficacy of Rice Cereal in Bottles Used as a Natural Sleep Aid for Infants Aged 0-11 Months | Pediatrics | American Academy of Pediatrics (aap.org)

Is this fortified with iron?

Yes, Else Super Cereal is fortified with iron at levels considered to be a good source of iron.

What is Super in your product?

Else Super Cereal is the 1st ever Clean Label Purity certified cereal in the US, made with >80% Whole Food Ingredients: buckwheat, almond and tapioca. It is based on a unique combination of nutritionally balanced gluten free carbohydrates, high-quality plant protein, healthy fats, and 20+ essential vitamins and minerals. 

Can it be mixed with other foods or fruit into it?

For standard preparation, mix 3 Tbsp Else Super Cereal into lukewarm breastmilk, formula, or water until desired consistency has been achieved. Fruit or vegetable purees can be included as desired to help diversify your baby’s diet.

How many servings a day should babies eat?

Infants 6+ months and toddlers are encouraged to consume a variety of complementary foods to meet energy and nutrient needs. Infant cereal plays an important role in meeting these nutrient needs during this life stage and should be offered as part of a diverse daily menu between 1-2 servings per day. 

How can Else Super Cereal be introduced to them?

Many HCPs advise trialing a new food and seeing how the child reacts. We recommend that our customers consult their healthcare provider regarding any adverse reactions following the introduction of new foods. 

Should almonds be introduced to a baby before giving them this?

Else Super Cereal can be used as a way to introduce almonds. Potentially allergenic foods (e.g. peanuts, egg, dairy, tree nuts, wheat, soy) should be introduced when other complementary foods are introduced to an baby’s diet. Almond allergenicity is much lower compared to cow's milk, which is a well-accepted protein source in infant formula. 

Should Else Super Cereal be served warm or cold?

It should be prepared with lukewarm water. 

How long should someone use a cereal pouch from time of opening?

Store the cereal pouch at room temperature and avoid extreme temperature. After opening, keep the seal tightly closed, store in a dry area, and use contents within 1 month.

Else Toddler Products

What is the source of protein in Else Toddler? Is the quality of this plant-based protein appropriate for toddlers?

Else Toddler products use the complementary protein combination of almonds and buckwheat, containing all 20 essential amino acids (protein building blocks)..  

Our protein study results suggest this protein combination meets the recommended needs to support growing toddlers and children. 

What makes Else Toddler different from standard toddler formulas?

The AAP advises against using high-sugar toddler formulas for toddlers who can consume a well-balanced diet.   

Else Toddler products made of 3 core whole plants with minimal added sugar and may be a suitable alternative to dairy as part of a balanced diet as well as when dietary nutrients are absent or reduced (e.g., protein, calcium, vitamin D) due to picky eating or diet restrictions.  

Why do you add sugar?

Most formulas consisting of cows’ milk have a natural sweetness derived from lactose. As our product has a very neutral taste in its natural form, we do add less than 2% of cane sugar to give a light sweetness – significantly less than comparable products on the market. 

How can Else Toddler be plant-based and still provide the fat profile needed for growth and development?

Else Toddler is complete nutrition for ages 12 months+. Mammalian milk does contain saturated fat and cholesterol, but these are not essential because they can be made by the body.  Certain types of fats, omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids cannot be made by the body and are essential in the diet. The essential fatty acids are Linoleic Acid (LA, omega-6) and ALA (alpha-linolenic acid, omega-3). The body can make all other omega-6 fats (ARA) and omega-3 fats (DHA, EPA) from the two essential fats LA and ALA.  

Why isn’t there DHA in your product?

Currently, we add essential fatty acids to Else Toddler Omega which by added oil blend that provides greater amounts of essential omega-3 fat, using ALA (alpha-linolenic acid) as the omega-3 fat source. Omega-3 is a group of fatty acids, DHA is one of them. ALA is the omega-3 precursor for other fatty acids as DHA and EPA. 

What is the breakdown of essential fatty acids in your Else Toddler products?

 

Else Toddler Organic 

Else Toddler Omega 

Essential Fatty Acids 

Per 100 kcal 

Per 100 kcal 

Linoleic Acid (omega 6) 

1112 mg 

1027 mg 

α-Linolenic Acid (omega-3) 

5.6 mg 

52 mg 

Do Else Toddler Products contain any oil?

There is no added oil in Else Toddler Organic. 

Else Toddler Omega has an added oil blend to provide higher amounts of essential omega-3 fat ALA (alpha-linolenic acid to help meet transitioning nutrient needs for toddlers who have just turned 12 months. 

What’s the difference between Else Toddler products and soy milk?

Else Toddler is made with minimally processed ingredients derived directly from almonds and buckwheat, and we have rigorous studies planned and in process.  Many soy milks and soy formulas are ultra-processed. 

What’s the difference between Else Toddlers products and regular almond milk?

Almond milk is made from almonds and filtered water. As such, it is low in calories, protein, and many micronutrients. The protein is not complete. 

Else Toddler provides complete nutrition with all essential amino acids (building blocks of proteins) from the combination of buckwheat & almond butter, as well as a micronutrient profile designed specifically for ages 12-36 months. 

Is this a meal replacement or a supplement for formula?

Else Toddler is designed to be complete nutrition and can be used as a meal replacement or supplement. It contains all the macro and micronutrients required. 

How many times a day can my child drink Else Toddler?

USDA recommends 2-3 servings of dairy products per day for a well-balanced, nutritionally complete diet; this amount provides approximately 25% to 30% of the total energy needs for healthy toddlers ages 12-36 months.   

Else Toddler has a complete macro- and micronutrient profile and is typically used in place of dairy servings 2-3 times per day.  It is always best to consult with your healthcare professional for recommendations specific to your child’s nutrition needs. 

Can Else Toddler be used in addition to other foods, breast milk etc.? How often should the product be used?

Just like a Toddler Formula, Else Toddler can be used daily or occasionally. It can be used as part of a balanced diet that includes any combination of breast milk, dairy milk, or solid foods. It provides complete nutrition beyond 12 months+. 

If a baby is younger than 12 months old, can they consume Else Toddler?

Else Toddler is intended for toddlers 12+ months or as advised by a healthcare provider. 

Is Else Toddler Omega suitable for infants?

The best nutrition for infants is breast milk (exclusively up to 6 months and with complementary feeding from 6 months) or infant formula when exclusive breast milk is not available.  Else Toddler Omega was designed to supplement the diet of toddlers ages 1-3 years, and we encourage customers to consult with their HCP regarding use under medical supervision outside this age range. 

Is Else Toddler Vegan?

Our products are suitable for vegan diet, they are not vegan certified. 

Is Else Toddler non-GMO

Yes, all of our ingredients are non-GMO.  

What does Else Toddler taste like?

It is fairly neutral and slightly sweet. 

What's the difference between Else Toddler and Else Kids Products?

Else Toddler and Kids are complete nutrition products tailored for different age groups, meaning they have different nutritional compositions (e.g. lower sugars, more fat in the Toddler product) to meet the nutritional needs of different age groups.  Else Kids also offers different product flavors (Vanilla and Chocolate). Else Toddler is designed for 12+ months, and the Kids product is designed for 2 years+. 

What is the difference between Toddler Omega and Toddler Organic?

Please see the following web page for a comprehensive comparison of our two Toddler products: https://hcp.elsenutrition.com/pages/struggling-to-find-suitable-baby-toddler-nutrition-through-the-current-stock-shortages-1  

How long can you use and store Else Toddler for after it has been prepared?

Else Toddler can be covered and refrigerated up to 24 hours after preparation.  Once the prepared formula has had contact with saliva, it should be consumed or discarded within an hour. 

Can I warm up Else Toddler that’s already mixed and has been in the fridge?

Else Toddler should only be warmed once if covered and stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours after preparation. It is ok to prepare 24-hour batch of Else Toddler if pouring into a clean feeding container to warm only one serving at a time.  

Else Kids Products

What is the source of protein in Else Kids? Is the quality of this plant-based protein appropriate for toddlers?

Else Toddler products use the complementary protein combination of almonds and buckwheat, containing all 20 essential amino acids (protein building blocks).

Our protein study results suggest that this protein combination meets the recommended needs to support growing toddlers and children.

How many times a day can a child drink Else Kids?

Else Kids can be consumed as an alternative to milk or dairy servings. USDA recommends 2-3 servings of dairy products daily for a well-balanced, nutritionally complete diet.  It is always best to consult with your healthcare professional for recommendations specific to your child’s nutrition needs.

Can Else Kids be used for weight gain?

Else Kids meets the DRIs for protein and 23 essential vitamins/minerals in 750 calories for ages 2-4 years, 1000 calories for ages 4-8 years, and 1500 calories for ages 9-13 years.  It can be used as a meal replacement or dietary supplement and has been approved as a WIC-eligible nutrition in select states to support weight gain for those with qualifying medical conditions.  However, it is always best to consult with your healthcare professional for recommendations specific to your child’s nutrition needs.

Do Else Kids products contain more sugar than Else Toddler products because of the flavors they come in?

The products are formulated differently, and sugar levels in Else Kids are not related to the natural vanilla or cocoa powder. Else Kids products are slightly sweeter compared to Else Toddler products but still with much lower sugar levels (~50% less) compared to other leading brands.

Why do you add sugar?

Most formulas on the market that are based on cow milk have a natural sweetness from the lactose.
We developed a clean, relatively low-in-sugar product with a neutral taste coming from organic tapioca syrup, which gives a light sweetness – ~50% less sugar than comparable products on the market.  

Why do you add sugar?

Most formulas on the market that are based on cow milk have a natural sweetness from the lactose.
We developed a clean, relatively low-in-sugar product with a neutral taste coming from organic tapioca syrup, which gives a light sweetness – ~50% less sugar than comparable products on the market.  

Does the Kids shake also have omega-3 and omega-6?

The Kids products are made of 95% whole plants, almonds, buckwheat, and tapioca without added oils.The primary fat source is almond butter, which is rich in unsaturated fats. Else Kids contains omega-6 fatty acid linoleic acid (~670 mg per 100 kcal). However, almond butter is not a rich source of the omega-3 fatty acid ALA.

For Halal purposes, are Else Kids flavors processed with alcohol?

Else Kids are Kosher certified and are suitable for Halal diets but not certified as Halal.

What’s the difference between Else Kids products and soy milk?

Else Kids is made with minimally processed ingredients derived directly from almonds and buckwheat, and we have rigorous studies both planned and in process.  Many soy milks and soy formulas are heavily processed and may contain a high amount of added sugars. 

What’s the difference between Else Kids products and regular almond milk?

Almond milk is made from almonds and filtered water. As such, it is low in calories, protein, and many micronutrients. The protein is not complete.

Else Kids provides complete nutrition with all essential amino acids (building blocks of proteins) from the combination of buckwheat & almond butter, as well as a micronutrient profile designed specifically for ages 2+ years.