Retrospective Cohort Study Demonstrates Tolerance and Adherence to Pea-Based Complete Enteral Formula When Transitioned from a Previous Hypoallergenic Product

Submission received: 14 August 2024 / Revised: 13 September 2024 / Accepted: 30 September 2024 / Published: 3 October 2024

Summary: Plant-based formulas have become increasingly popular due to their health benefits, environmental concerns, cultural beliefs, improved palatability, and decreased cost. A retrospective chart review of medically stable children transitioning from a hypoallergenic formula to a yellow pea protein plant-based formula (PPPBF) was included. This study aimed to assess gastrointestinal tolerance, weight changes, and adherence to receiving a unique PPPBF. Methods: Healthcare providers (HCPs) from pediatric clinics across the United States who requested increased PPPBF samples between the dates of 1 November 2021and 31 January 2022 and again from 1 February 2022 to 15 April 2022 inputted survey data. The HCPs selected participants based on the inclusion criteria. Results: Seventy-three completed patient surveys were included of children (ages 1–18 years old, 41% females, 59% males). After the transition to PPPBF, 38.4% experienced improvement in GI tolerance, 56.2% experienced no change, and 5.5% reported worsening GI tolerance. There was a 95% adherence rate, and 98.6% reported no adverse reactions or allergic manifestations after formula transition. Conclusions: Transitioning from a hypoallergenic formula to a PPPBF showed a trend toward stable GI tolerance, weight gain or stability, and adherence. A PPPBF offers a first-choice option for children who are on hypoallergenic formulas due to intolerance.

Key Takeaways:

• This retrospective chart review demonstrated PPPBF as a viable transition formula for this cohort of pediatric patients who previously received a hypoallergenic formula. Transitioning from a hypoallergenic formula to a PPPBF demonstrated a trend towards stable GI tolerance, weight gain or stability, and adherence. It offers a first-choice option for children on hypoallergenic formulas due to intolerance. Future research is needed to understand the safety and efficacy in children with a diagnosed cow’s milk protein allergy.