The almonds and buckwheat are sourced from the United States and Europe. The almonds come from organic orchards in the San Joaquin valley.

In the United States.

We use a clean, minimally processed production process. Unlike ultra-processed foods, we do not isolate the proteins in our foods. We don’t alter the chemistry of the plants, just the texture - leaving in more of the whole food goodness and direct sources of macronutrients that nature intended. In other words, our Complete Nutrition products are produced without any harsh chemicals. All of Else’s protein, fat and carbohydrates are obtained directly from our three core ingredients: almond, buckwheat, and tapioca.

We are committed to the safety of our product for you and your family. In order to maintain the highest level of safety for our products, we follow the QA standards and conduct nutritional and microbiology analysis for each production batch.

Else Nutrition’s vision is to transform the way we feed our toddlers and children for generations to come. We create real, plant-based alternatives for parents and those who want a cleaner, more sustainable way to nourish their little one.

No. In fact, our formula has been tested for heavy metals and we are confident and proud to share that Else is free of any heavy metal contamination.

The main heavy metals of concern, arsenic, cadmium, lead, and mercury have been tested and were not detected in our products. Therefore, Else products are labeled as free of heavy metals.

Our products are not only plant-based, they are also made with no animal-derived ingredients.

Yes, all Else Nutrition products are, and will always be non-GMO (without genetically modified ingredients).

Yes, our products are Clean Label. Clean Label is a consumer-driven movement that focuses on food and ingredient transparency. A food is considered Clean Label if it contains only natural, familiar, and simple ingredients that are easy to recognize, understand, and pronounce. This means there are no artificial ingredients or synthetic chemicals in the food. To learn more about ingredients that are considered clean label visit cleanlabelproject.org for a list.

USDA certified organic means that a food is grown and processed in a way that meets the federal guidelines for soil quality, treatment of animals, pest control, and the use of additives. Organic farmers and food producers use natural farming practices as well as no synthetic fertilizers or pesticides. For more information about prohibited substances on organic farms visit the USDA Blog “Organic 101: Allowed and Prohibited Substances”.

For multi-ingredient foods, like Else, in order to be considered USDA certified organic and bear the USDA organic seal in addition to organic certification of each ingredient, these foods must not contain artificial preservatives, colors, flavors, or GMOs.

Yes, all of our products are USDA Certified Organic.

Yes, our products are Kosher.

Cow milk, soy and nuts are all widely known and common allergens. If your child has food allergies or sensitivities, you should always ask your doctor about which formula is best for them.

Unlike these ingredients, almonds and buckwheat are much less common allergens. Else uses the combination of almond and buckwheat proteins, which provide a full range of amino acids.

Else products are currently available for sale in the U.S. through our website, as well as Amazon, iHerb, Sprouts, and soon Walmart.com.

No, we do not use any artificial or synthetic flavorings or colorings in our products.

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

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

Since baby formulas were first introduced 120 years ago, only two main protein sources – cow’s milk & soy, were used to 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 little ones.

Else was created to fill in the market gap. Else products are for plant-based families, health-conscious caregivers, kids and toddlers with food sensitivities, allergies and picky eaters. It's for parents and caregivers who want a real alternative to cow's milk and soy-based nutrition.

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

For our full story, check out Our Story page: https://elsenutrition.com/pages/our-story

Else products are different than other formulas on the market in several ways. Most 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 GMOs.

Infant:

Our infant formula is currently undergoing the FDA approval process. Else infant formula will be similar to other formulas as it will meet the complete nutritional requirements for their proper growth and development.  Regulation of infant nutrition sets strict composition requirements, thus infant formula compositions looks similar.

Toddler & Kids:

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

Else Toddler Complete Nutrition provides a similar amount of calories and total fat to 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 toddlers with food intolerances.

The formula has been endorsed by leading pediatricians and nutritionists. Else was featured in the "Good Housekeeping's 2021 Parenting Awards" and also received the "Best Health and Diet Solutions" award in the Global Food Innovation Summit in Milan in May 2017.

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%.

Lastly, there are more farmers now choosing to grow certified organic almonds to reduce the environmental impact.

The taste of the formula is neutral with a light sweetness. Most babies and children prefer mild, sweet tastes like this.

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

However, please consult your pediatrician to ensure this is the right choice for your little one.

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

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 specific ranges 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 formula 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.

In terms of ingredients, all of the protein, and carbohydrates found in Else formula are obtained directly from the whole plant:

Almond butter is a rich protein source, but also contains biotin, Vitamin E (an antioxidant), copper, and manganese. Almonds also provide good amounts of Vitamin B2 (riboflavin), phosphorus, magnesium, and molybdenum. They are also a great source of heart-healthy monounsaturated fat. 

Almonds are a whole food alternative to cow’s milk, whey, casein or processed soy. They are easily-digestible, and have been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects. Almonds are prebiotics that favorably alter the microbiome of the intestinal tract.

Buckwheat is a high-quality, gluten-free pseudo grain and complete source of protein (because it has a full amino acid profile - all eight essential amino acids) and nutritious carbohydrates. 

Buckwheat is also a very good source of manganese, copper, magnesium, phosphorus, antioxidants and fiber. It provides babies with essential macronutrients from a whole food. It is also a favorable prebiotic for the intestinal tract.

Tapioca maltodextrin, derived from the root vegetable cassava (also known as yuca) is an easy to digest carbohydrate and is free of taste, smell and flavor. It is made using water and all natural enzymes.

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.

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

The FDA requires submission of new infant formula notification for every new infant formula to be marketed in the U.S. This notification included 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. 

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 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 formula may be another option as a formula that can be used to supplement breastfeeding. It mimics the nutritional gold standard composition values of breast milk. 

Toddler formulas may generally have nutrient profiles found in infant formulas, but they are designed to supplement the diet of toddlers ages 12-36 months that are also eating regular food products. Babies younger than 12 months should be breastfed or consume infant formulas as the primary source of nutrition.

Traditionally, the main difference between toddler and infant formulas is that toddler formulas slightly differ in their protein levels and contain greater amounts of calcium and phosphorus, designed to match the higher calcium and phosphorus levels of children's needs as they grow.

Nutrient-rich toddler drinks may be recommended by health care professionals when there is a recognized need for additional nutrients that may be lacking in your toddler’s diet. It is best to ask your child’s pediatrician about any nutrition concerns related to your toddler or infant’s diet.

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 consume 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 a 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.

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.

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.

Many food sources may cause food allergies. This formula contains almonds and buckwheat as a protein source. Almonds, though an allergen, are the least common 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.

At 12 months of age, babies are developmentally ready to be weaned from breast milk or infant formula as their palates expand and their diets become more diverse. It is around this time that many little ones start drinking whole milk and/or eating full-fat dairy products (or 2% reduced-fat milk if indicated). When dairy or soy is not an appropriate or desired product for your toddler, we offer you something ELSE!

Else Toddler Nutrition Drink is a complete nutrition beverage for:

- Those desiring a sustainable, plant-based, dairy-free, soy-free option

- Toddlers with dairy or soy intolerances or sensitivities 

- A nutritionally-dense alternative to cow’s milk

- Those who prefer an organic, non-GMO beverage made with real, clean ingredients that is free of fillers, highly-processed ingredients, preservatives and additives.

- A good source of protein, fiber and healthy fats.

- A great supplement to a toddler's diet that may fall short of key nutrients needed for growth.

- Those who want to offer their little toddlers a drink that is low in sugar, gluten-free, corn syrup-free, and that tastes good

- Vegan, plant-based or vegetarian families looking to supplement needed calories, fat, protein, calcium, vitamin D, iron and B12 

- Replacing infant formula after your toddlers first birthday

- Supplementing or replacing breast milk after your toddlers first birthday

- Adding to breast milk or infant formula as your child weans and gets used to a new drink

- A nutritionally dense ingredient to create fun, tasty and healthy recipes such as smoothies, cereal, oatmeal, puddings or even baked goods. You can even substitute cow’s milk with Else in pancakes or muffins!

The nutrient content regulatory guidelines for formulas and drinks designed for toddlers (12-36 months old) are not clearly established. However, the manufacturer must produce the formula in a facility that strictly follows current FDA good manufacturing principles and procedures and must accurately define the finished product with appropriate labeling to ensure that the nutrients declared on the label are met during the shelf life. 

Most toddler formulas are powders that are easily mixed with water to provide a nutrient rich formula for the toddler.

While there are many nutritional options for toddler formulas and toddler milks, most include cow’s milk proteins or soy proteins. Until now, this posed a problem for children with cow milk and/or soy allergies. While hydrolyzed/elemental (i.e. broken down), and hypoallergenic medical formula do exist, they’re typically expensive and not very palatable.

With respect to the carbohydrate sources, most toddler formulas and toddler milks use extracts derived from corn (corn syrup solids or corn maltodextrin) and lactose (cow’s milk derived). Some formulas add a prebiotic fiber, galactooligosaccharides (GOS) or fructooligosaccharides (FOS) to support gut health.

The oil blends found in toddler formulas and toddler milks are diverse, however the majority use soy oil (for monounsaturated fat) and sunflower oil (to support essential fatty acid intakes of linoleic acid and linolenic acid) and coconut oil (for saturated fat). 

Else Nutrition has developed an alternative to standard toddler beverages and toddler formulas. The Plant-based Toddler Nutrition drink delivers protein from a proprietary blend of almonds and buckwheat using a clean, chemical-free process. This plant-based alternative to dairy or soy-based formulas and toddler milks is made from whole foods such as almond, buckwheat, tapioca. It is also free of any dairy or soy ingredients, free of any antibiotics, hormone-free, gluten-free, and does not contain genetically modified ingredients.

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

Else Plant-Based toddler nutritional drink contains almond butter, buckwheat flour, tapioca maltodextrin and vitamins and minerals. The toddler nutritional drink is slightly sweetened with a low amount of sugar, less than 2%, which is significantly less than traditional offerings.

92% of the product’s composition is made up of 3 plant ingredients: almonds, buckwheat, and tapioca.

The two sources of protein in our formula come from almonds and buckwheat. Both sources are gluten-free, high quality, plant-based protein sources that contain all the essential amino acids (protein building blocks) that we must get from our diet.

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, 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 is produced using the whole plants in its natural form while avoiding highly processed ingredients.

Cow’s milk lacks the adequate amounts of iron, vitamin C, and other nutrients that babies need for optimal growth. 

There are 3 main ingredients in the Else Plant-Based Toddler Nutrition drink: almonds, buckwheat and tapioca. Together, the almond butter and buckwheat flour provide complete protein, healthy fats, and complex carbs. The tapioca provides a quick acting carbohydrate to fuel the growing toddlers and support digestion.

Although Else Nutritional Drink offers a similar amount of calories and total fat compared to whole milk, it has more iron and less saturated fat. Cow’s milk has more protein compared to Else’s Toddler Nutrition Drink and provides very little of the dietary essential fatty acids needed for optimal growth.

Cow’s milk is lacking in many vitamins (D, E, K, C, B6, thiamine, riboflavin and pantothenic acid) and is also grossly deficient in iron.

Else is an excellent source of essential micronutrients such as the B vitamins, vitamins E and C, calcium, folate, magnesium, and zinc.

Yes, Else offers a similar caloric and macronutrient profile to breast milk, making it a great option to supplement your child’s healthy diet. Our toddler nutritional drink offers a similar amount of calories and total fat as a whole cow's milk, with far less saturated fat and more iron - a common deficiency that can arise in the toddler years.

Even as a plant based product, Else offers a full, essential amino acid profile. It is also an excellent source of essential micronutrients such as the B vitamins, vitamins E and C, calcium, folate, magnesium, and zinc.

It was designed to provide complete nutrition, with nutrients and vitamins to support growth and development. It is free of GMOs, soy, corn and gluten, and low in sugar. 

Just like a toddler formula, Else Plant-Based Toddler Nutrition drink can be used daily or occasionally; with any combination of breast milk, dairy milk, or solid foods. It provides complete nutrition beyond 12 months.

Toddler formulas may generally have nutrient profiles found in infant formulas, but they are designed to supplement the diet of toddlers ages 12-36 months that are also eating regular food products. Babies younger than 12 months should be breastfed or consume infant formulas as their primary source of nutrition.  

Traditionally, the main difference between toddler and infant formulas is that toddler formulas contain greater amounts of calcium and phosphorus, designed to match the higher calcium and phosphorus levels of children's needs as they grow.

It is best to ask your child’s pediatrician about any nutrition concerns related to your toddler or infant’s diet.

A common serving size is 4 fluid ounces. Else Toddler Nutritional Drink should be prepared by adding 1 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 Else 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 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 remaining formula at the end of each feeding if it has been left unconsumed for more than one 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.

Once the drink is prepared, it should be used within one hour.  Any pre-mixed product should be discarded after an hour.

You can only store the prepared product up to one hour. After that, it can no longer be stored and should be discarded.