FAQ

Else Nutrition Kids’ Drink is a complete plant-based nutrition designed to satisfy the nutritional needs of kids. 

Infants, toddlers and kids have different nutritional needs. Else Nutrition Kids’ Drink is designed for kids and is not for infants below 12 months of age.

It can replace a meal, but is not designed to be a sole source of nutrition.

Else Nutrition Kids’ Drink may be used as desired daily, occasionally and in any combination with other food products.

Else Nutrition Kids’ Drink contains 210kcal/serving. Weight gain is a result of consuming more calories than you burn.

Else Nutrition Kids’ Drink does not include any growth hormones. 

Else Nutrition Kids’ Drink contains 69mg choline per serving and 1g of dietary fibers per serving.

Choline is an essential nutrient and is involved in brain development, cellular growth, and metabolism.

The dietary fibers in Else products originate from the core ingredients almonds and buckwheat. They are soluble fibers that nourish healthy microbes in the gut.

DHA is not required by the FDA, and there is not a vegan and organic version. 

Else Nutrition Kids’ Drink contains 8g of fat per serving, and most of it is unsaturated fat.

Else can be left out 1 hour after mixing and may be stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours.

Else can be heated so that it is warm, but should not be made so hot as to burn the mouth. Be sure to check the temperature of the product before offering it to your child.

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 (4 different flavors in Kids) and serving sizes. Else Toddler is designed for 12+ months, and the Kids product is designed for 2 years+.

There are two key reasons why we've designed our products in this way, aimed at delivering the healthiest product we can, and to ensure that toddlers and children develop in the most appropriate way.

Firstly, there is clear evidence that toddlers and children who consume significantly more sugars than is healthy, can result in this leading to childhood obesity and other metabolic based health disorders as they grow older.

Secondly and just as importantly, evidence has now shown that early introduction of sweet foods in young children can result in their preference for overly sweet foods as they grow older, and their rejection of bitter and sour foods such as fresh fruit and vegetables. This high sugar, and lack of healthier food diversity, has been shown to lead to higher rates of weight-related conditions and cardiometabolic syndrome later on.

This programming of flavor preferences is a complex developmental process that begins to persist between ages 2-4 years, and has been shown to be less modifiable after age of 7. Therefore it is critical to ensure that toddlers ,and young children, do not consume overly sweet foods at an early age, and are exposed to a variety of foods and flavors (bitter, sour etc.).

Based on this important and emerging science, we've developed our products to have a great taste that children will enjoy, but contain significantly less sugar than alternative products (at least 50% less), and will support a healthy programming of flavor preference.

Many food sources may cause food allergies. This formula contains almonds and buckwheat as protein sources. Almonds, though an allergen, are the least allergen of all tree nuts.  Buckwheat allergy is pretty rare. If there is any risk or concern for a nut allergy, we recommend speaking to your pediatrician first prior to starting your baby on this formula.

Else formula contains almonds, a tree nut allergen. It is best to speak to your doctor if your baby has a nut allergy before using this product.

Else is dairy-free, and soy-free. It may thus be a real and suitable alternative for those suffering from cow milk/soy allergies, sensitivities, and lactose intolerance. Please consult your pediatrician.

According to the latest research cow’s milk allergy is one of the most common food allergies in infants and young children with an estimated prevalence in developed countries ranging from 0.5% to 3% at age 1 year.

Milk allergy symptoms can appear anywhere from a few minutes after exposure to a few hours after ingesting.

The most common symptoms are rashes, upset stomach, persistent gassiness, excessive fussiness or sleeplessness, and frequent vomiting and, or diarrhea, and blood in the stool.

In babies, a milk allergy may affect their respiratory system. This can cause chronic nasal stuffiness, coughing, wheezing, or difficulty breathing. A cow’s milk allergy may also cause eczema, hives, swelling, itching, or a rash around the mouth and on the chin.

Cow milk, soy and nuts are a widely regarded allergen, therefore you should always ask your doctor about which formula is best for your child. The combination of almond and buckwheat proteins provide a full range of amino acids. Most soy is genetically modified and may also be difficult for infants to digest.

A common serving size is 4 fluid ounces. Else Toddler Nutritional Drink should be prepared by adding an unpacked scoop (9gr) of powder for every 2 fluid ounces of water. This mixture should be shaken well and served immediately. Use the prepared formula within an hour and then discard it. The dry scoop should be stored in the can.

Before preparing a bottle of nutritional drink, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water. You should also sterilize bottles, nipples, caps, and rings before using them for the first time. These items can be boiled in water for 5 minutes, you can use a microwave steam sterilizer bag, or you can use a stand-alone electric steam sterilizer.

After the first use, there is no need to sterilize your bottles, nipples, caps, and rings. These items can be washed with soap and water or depending on the type of bottles and accessories you use; they may be cleaned in a dishwasher.

You can use any type of clean water whether it be tap or bottled to mix with the powder.

For powdered formula, the first step of preparation is to determine the amount of drink you want to prepare by following the instructions on the package. Fill the bottle with the proper amount of water. The next step involves using the scoop that comes with the formula container. Fill the scoop with the powdered formula and pour the scoop(s) into the bottle. Attach the nipple and cap and shake well.

If your baby prefers a warm drink place a filled bottle in a bowl of warm water and let it stand for a few minutes. You may also warm the bottle under running water. It is best not to heat the bottle by placing it in the microwave. Heating the formula in a microwave can lead to uneven heating, creating hot spots that could burn your baby's mouth.

The ideal drink temperature is at or just below body temperature at around 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit.

Before feeding your baby, check the temperature by dripping a little onto the inside of your wrist. It should feel lukewarm, not hot. If it still feels hot, cool some more before feeding.

Discard the remaining formula at the end of each feeding if it has been more than an hour from the start of a feeding.

This is a very important question since baby formula needs to be stored properly to prevent spoilage. Once opened the product must be used within 1 month. If it is unopened, use by the date on the package. Always store the formula in a cool, dry place.

Storage guidelines vary depending on the type of formula. Store the powder formula at room temperature, avoiding extreme temperatures. After opening, keep the lid tightly closed and stored in a dry area.

Our production process is the most natural and cleanest in our industry. We use the whole plant ingredients as direct sources for all the macronutrients required, instead of breaking them down to their building blocks with artificial processing methods. 

Else is created through a unique, science-backed, and sustainable process that transforms 3 whole plants, through the cleanest, natural process.

We do not ‘alter the chemistry’ of our ingredients. We do not use isolated components or separated derivatives (broken down parts) of the food, and in this way, our Toddler Nutritional drink is produced without any strong chemicals. All the protein, fat, and carbohydrates are obtained directly from the 3 ingredients present - almond, buckwheat, and tapioca.

Phytonutrients, fiber, vitamins, and minerals are more abundant and demonstrate increased health benefits when consumed as part of a whole food as it is in our formula, rather than from its isolated components.

At Else Nutrition, we are committed to reducing our carbon footprint and creating sustainable products for your family. Our process is sustainable, and we have a low ecological footprint.

California produces 80% of the almonds grown in this country. Almond trees happen to be quite thirsty and require a tremendous amount of water to grow. This “water footprint” has raised concerns about the sustainability of the mass almond farming industry. 

However, according to research published in 2017, almonds ranked among the most valuable foods grown in California due to their dietary and economic benefits. Additionally, compared to cows, almond trees require less water to grow. It is estimated that almonds have a carbon footprint 10 times smaller than that of the dairy milk industry.

Moreover, California almond farmers have reduced the amount of water it takes to grow one pound of almonds by 33% over the course of 20 years. By 2025, the California almond community has committed to reducing the amount of water to grow a pound of almonds by an additional 20%. Additionally, there are more farmers now choosing to grow certified organic almonds to reduce the environmental impact.

No, our formula packaging does not contain any harmful chemicals, BPA, or phthalates of any kind.

For the toddler product, there are no clinical requirements as the ingredients are already used in food.

The future Else infant formula will be clinically studied. We are working to meet the highest safety standards required by the FDA and WHO to bring our infant formula to market.

Else Nutrition’s vision is to transform the way we feed our babies and children for generations to come.

Else Nutrition’s mission is a simple one: to create real, plant-based alternatives for parents and those who want a cleaner, more sustainable way to nourish their babies and toddlers. 

Else Nutrition formally incorporated in 2019, after nearly 7 years of product development.

Since baby formulas were first introduced 120 years ago, only two (2) main protein sources – cow’s milk & soy, meet the strict nutritional GOLD STANDARD composition required by international regulation for infant formula.  

However, many infants have allergies and intolerances to these two proteins which makes it difficult to tolerate dairy or soy-based formulas. This leaves limited formula options for these infants. 

For health and lifestyle reasons, flexitarian, vegan and health-conscious parents are seeking real alternatives for their babies and toddlers, that have minimal ingredients and taste good.  They’re seeking dairy-free and soy-free alternatives. And we’re heard these parents and families.

Else formula is a non-dairy and non-soy, vegan alternative that uses almonds and buckwheat as protein sources.

We saw there was something missing in the formula market and wanted to offer a viable and healthy plant-based alternative to the baby formula market.

Else was founded by 3 veterans of the infant nutrition industry, with decades of experience, who broke away from the industry, to create something else. A real alternative to dairy-based baby and toddler nutrition.

The idea was sparked when one of our founder’s granddaughter became very ill at 10 months, and could not tolerate any of the available options on the market. He caringly recalled an old family recipe, based on almond paste. This preliminary version helped nurture his granddaughter to health and she is currently thriving. 

The founders discovered a novel way of creating a baby formula based on the discovery that the essential fatty acids profile of almonds and buckwheat is of high quality and can support healthy growth.

The science-backed process to develop and perfect Else has spanned over 7 years.  

The formula has been endorsed by leading pediatricians and nutritionists. Else received the "Best Health and Diet Solutions" award in the Global Food Innovation Summit in Milan in May 2017.

We are currently looking into options to be covered by insurance, and hope to join select plans over 2022. If there is a specific insurance program that you work with and feel Else Nutrition fits the parameters for, please share the details with info@elsenutrition.com.

Our products, similar to other nutrition products, are not HSA eligible.  However, you may still be able to get reimbursed through your HSA administrator.  To do that, you simply need a note from a healthcare professional (on their office letterhead/prescription pad), which recommends the specific product (i.e. Else Toddler or Else Kids) for a specific health condition (e.g. dairy/soy sensitivity, additional nutrition required) along with a receipt of your purchase, and then both can be shared with your HSA administrator for reimbursement.

Let us know where you shop most often by filling out this form and we’ll make sure our team adds it to the top of the list!

Baby formula is designed to mimic the nutritional composition found in breastmilk. Your baby’s first year of life is a period of rapid growth and infant formula supports this growth by providing adequate macronutrients (carbohydrates, protein, and fat) and micronutrients (vitamins and minerals). Keep in mind that by the end of your baby’s first year, s/he will likely be twice as long as and three times as heavy as they were at birth!

Infant formula is considered food, and therefore is regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The FDA has set a specific range for the macronutrients protein, fat, and carbohydrate and minimum requirement concentrations of 29 essential nutrients that must be in the formula.  

Your baby will require high levels of carbohydrates and fats and some protein. These three macronutrients form the foundation of all infant formulas.

Cow milk protein has been used as the standard protein source in formulas for many years. The carbohydrate source in baby formula is generally lactose, but could also include maltodextrin, corn syrup, or sucrose. 

Baby formula will typically contain a blend of several vegetable oils because these blends mimic the fatty acids found in breast milk. Fat blends in baby formula vary but may include high oleic safflower oil, soy oil, coconut oil, palm oil, or palm kernel oil. 

Else’s future infant formula product will be made of plant-based ingredients, providing all nutrients, and will adhere to all regulatory requirements set by the FDA. We avoid genetically modified ingredients, as well as antibiotics, and heavy metals.

Else infant formula will be clinically studied. We are working to meet the highest safety standards required by the FDA and WHO to bring our infant formula to market.

The company started the regulatory process to achieve compliance for its infant formula (0-12 months) in the United States and Europe. 

The FDA requires the submission of new infant formula notifications for every new infant formula to be marketed in the US. This notification includes data on composition (that should be according to the nutritional composition in 21 CFR 107), stability, protein efficiency study, and a clinical safety study. Since the ingredients of the Company's products are innovative and new to this industry, this process starts with the evaluation of the regulatory status of its ingredients and the gaps for approving them for infant consumption. 

The full process usually takes 24-36 months. 

Else products are different than other formulas on the market in several ways.  Most infant formulas currently on the market are either dairy or soy-based. Our formula is 100% organic, vegan, non-dairy, and soy-free. It is free of hormones, antibiotics, artificial colorings and flavors, and is GMO-free. 

Infant:

Else infant formula will be similar to other formulas as it will meet the complete nutritional requirements of your infant for their proper growth and development.  Regulation of infant nutrition sets strict composition requirements, thus infant formula compositions look similar.

Toddler:

Toddler drinks and toddler formula compositions are not regulated, thus ingredient and composition differences can be significant, and are very noticeable.

Else Toddler Nutrition Drink provides a similar amount of calories and total fat as cow’s milk, but with less saturated fat and more iron.

Additionally, because it is both dairy and soy-free, it may be easier to digest for babies with food intolerances.

This is a wonderfully complex question that requires a complex answer.

There are a wide variety of infant formulas on the market. Up until now, there were generally three different types of infant formulas to choose from. The three major types were cow milk protein-based formulas, soy-based formulas, and protein hydrolysate formulas.

Most of the formulas you’ll find are cow milk protein-based formulas. Many babies may tolerate this type of formula however, those with milk protein allergies or other intolerances will require an alternative to cow milk protein-based formulas. 

Soy-based formulas are an alternative for babies who are lactose intolerant or have a milk protein allergy. It is important to note that some babies who are allergic to cow’s milk may also present with an allergy to soy and will require an alternative to both cow milk and soybean-based formulas.

Protein hydrolysate formulas include protein that has been broken down (hydrolyzed) into smaller pieces which makes them tolerable for babies who are allergic to regular cow’s milk or soy-based formulas. These formulas can be very expensive and have a strong odor. 

Goat’s milk formula is another alternative to cow milk protein-based formulas that has gained popularity in recent years. Making the shift from cow’s milk formula to goat’s milk formula may not solve the allergy or intolerance problems for your baby. 

Goat’s milk formula contains many of the same proteins that cause allergic reactions, and goat’s milk contains only slightly less lactose than cow’s milk. For babies with a severe sensitivity to lactose, goat’s milk can still trigger unpleasant symptoms related to lactose intolerance.

Else’s infant formula will offer a whole food, plant-based alternative to cow’s milk, soy, and hydrolysate formulas for a “cleaner”, safer product for your baby.

Although breast is best, it’s important to understand that there are times when supplementing with formula, whether it be for personal or medical reasons, is the best option for mom and baby.

There are many different types of formulas on the market, and the choice can sometimes be overwhelming.

Some formulas claim to be specifically designed for supplementing while breastfeeding. These formulas often contain prebiotics that are designed to keep your baby’s stool soft to help prevent constipation. 

Else Plant-based Toddler Nutrition (drink) is a delicious way to supplement nutrition beyond 12 months, or in addition to table foods. It can be used daily, or occasionally in combination with breast milk, dairy milk, or solid foods. It provides complete nutrition beyond 12 months+.

All formulas available on the market are safe and designed to support your baby’s growth and development. But, how do you know which one is right for you?

There are many factors to consider when choosing which product to provide for your baby or toddler. These may include intolerances, allergies, the cost of the formula, or even taste preferences. 

Most formulas are made from cow's milk or soy. For babies with allergies or intolerances to cow’s milk protein, lactose, or soy, there are specialized formulas available. These formulas include protein that has been broken down or hydrolyzed into smaller pieces making them tolerable for babies that cannot tolerate cow’s milk or soy-based formulas.

If you are looking for a product made with real, whole, organic foods, free from genetically modified ingredients, heavy metals, and hormones, Else Toddler Nutrition Drink provides optimal nourishment for your child. Else Plant-Based Toddler Nutrition is comprised of three main ingredients: almonds, buckwheat, and tapioca and are produced using the whole plants in their natural form while avoiding highly processed ingredients.

Initially, it is best to feed your formula-fed baby on demand, or whenever they seem fussy because they are hungry. As a general rule of thumb, your formula-fed baby will likely take 2 to 3 ounces (60–90 mL) of formula per feeding and will usually eat every three to four hours on average during their first few weeks of life. 

By the end of your baby’s first month, they will generally take up to at least 4 ounces (120 mL) per feeding, about every four hours.

By six months, your baby will typically eat 6 to 8 ounces (180–240 mL) at each of four or five feedings in twenty-four hours.

There are many factors that may affect the amount of formula your baby will consume. During growth spurts, your baby may want more. During times of sickness, your baby may want less. 

On average, your baby should take in about 2½ ounces (75 mL) of formula a day for every pound (453 g) of body weight. 

Your baby will likely communicate with you regarding whether they are hungry or satisfied. If your baby seems restless or easily distracted during feeding, they are most likely finished. If your baby finishes the bottle and continues sucking, they might still be hungry. Learning to read their signals around feeding can help you provide the right amount of formula for them