Table 4 Types of protein substitutes available based on phenylalanine-free amino acids

Infant protein substitutes (powder)

Powdered infant formula without phenylalanine has a similar nutritional composition to regular formula for infants without PKU.

Infant protein substitutes (liquid)

Liquid infant formula without phenylalanine has a similar nutritional composition to regular formula for infants without PKU.

Powdered weaning protein substitutes

Powdered weaning (thickened) amino acids without phenylalanine. The semi-solid consistency can be adjusted to suit the developmental age of the older baby/toddler.

Semi-solid weaning protein substitutes

Ready to use semi-solid protein substitutes (amino acids mixed with fruit puree) for older babies/toddlers.

Powdered protein substitutes

Powdered amino acid supplements (with or without the addition of vitamins, minerals, long chain fatty acids, carbohydrate and fat), reconstituted with water and made into semi-solid (spoonable) consistency or drink. They are suitable for variable age groups and are available in different flavours.

Liquid protein substitutes

Ready to use liquid protein substitutes (usually with the addition of vitamins, minerals, long chain fatty acids, carbohydrate and fat). They are suitable for variable age groups and are available in different flavours.

Protein substitute tablets

Tablets containing amino acids without phenylalanine ±vitamins and minerals. Usually high numbers of tablets are required to meet full protein substitute requirement, but they can be used in combination with other protein substitutes to make up requirements and aid variety.

Protein substitute bars

Snack bars containing amino acids without phenylalanine. They are usually given in combination with other protein substitutes to make up requirements and aid variety. Some may not contain added vitamins and minerals.