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Else Nutrition Review: Does The Brand Really Understand What Parents Want?

Else Nutrition Review

Else Nutrition focuses on providing plant-based nutrition supplements, particularly catering to the needs of infants and children. Their offerings include dairy-free and Clean-label certified formulas that may support growth, immunity, and digestion in children.

Board-certified pediatricians also review the offerings from Else Nutrition to support your child's healthy development.

The brand also offers a Rewards & Loyalty Program, subscription savings, and a referral program to provide more value with every purchase.

In this review, we cover everything you need to know about Else Nutrition, including its product lineup, advantages, and brand limitations.

About Else Nutrition

Established in 2012, Else Nutrition was created by Hamutal Yitzhak, Uriel Kesler, and Michael Azoulay. Designed for infants and children from six months to twelve years old, Else Nutrition's offerings are formulated to support essential nutritional needs at every growth stage.

Among Else Nutrition's most popular offerings is their Baby Super Cereal, which caters to the nutritional needs of infants starting solid foods at six months of age.

For toddlers, Else offers both the Toddler Organic formula and the Toddler Omega variant to aid brain and cognitive development.

Else Nutrition emphasizes the use of minimally processed, whole-food ingredients that are free from dairy, soy, GMOs, palm oil, and gluten.

The brand is not intended to serve as a medical replacement for infant formula in babies under six months. However, for infants beginning solids, as well as toddlers and older children, it offers a nutritionally complete, plant-based alternative to conventional dairy- or soy-based nutritional products.

The Else Nutrition website also features a blog that includes expert-backed advice on child nutrition, parenting, and mealtime strategies, along with practical recipes.

Else Nutrition Reviews

Else Nutrition Products

  1. Baby Super Cereal 6+ Months-Vanilla

    Else Nutrition's Baby Super Cereal is a plant-based, organic cereal made for babies aged six months and above. This vanilla-flavored cereal makes it easy to start your baby on solid foods with clean, whole ingredients.

    As per the official website, Baby Super Cereal by Else Nutrition is free from common allergens like dairy, soy, gluten, and corn syrup, making it a safer option for babies with food sensitivities or digestive issues.

    The makers state that this cereal contains more than 90% whole foods and is packed with plant-based protein, healthy fats, natural fiber, and over 20 essential vitamins and minerals that may support healthy growth and development.

    Else Nutrition's Baby Super Cereal combines organic buckwheat, almond butter, and tapioca. Buckwheat is rich in protein and naturally gluten-free. Almond butter adds healthy fats and fiber, while tapioca, made from cassava root, is easy to digest and gives energy without upsetting sensitive stomachs. The cereal also contains a mix of essential nutrients like iron, zinc, B vitamins, and vitamin D to help meet your baby's daily needs.

    To prepare Else Nutrition's Baby Super Cereal, the brand suggests washing your hands and all feeding tools, then placing three tablespoons of cereal into a clean bowl. Slowly mix in a lukewarm liquid such as breast milk or water until it reaches the texture your baby likes.

  2. Plant-Based Complete Nutrition Toddlers Drink

    Plant-Based Complete Nutrition Drink by Else Nutrition is formulated for children 12 months and older. The brand claims this drink is a USDA Organic-certified drink and can support healthy development using over 90% minimally processed whole-food ingredients.

    As per the official website, Else Nutrition's Plant-based Complete Nutrition Drink is tested for over 400 contaminants, including heavy metals, pesticides, and plasticizers.

    To prepare the Plant-Based Complete Nutrition Drink, you can mix four fluid ounces of lukewarm or warm water with four scoops of the powder and shake well for 15 seconds. Then, the maker suggests adding another four ounces of water and shaking it again until fully blended. Always check the temperature before giving it to your child, and avoid microwaving, as it could cause uneven heating and potential burns.

    Else Nutrition claims that its Plant-Based Complete Nutrition Drink provides a broad spectrum of essential nutrients, including iron, zinc, calcium, B vitamins, and vitamins D and E, to help in brain development, immune function, and bone health. It also includes inositol and choline, which are important for cognitive development and cell signaling.

  3. Plant-Powered Complete Nutrition Shake

    Else's Plant-Powered Complete Nutrition Shake offers a healthy and convenient way to support your child's growth. Made for kids ages 2 to 13, this ready-to-drink shake could be a suitable option for busy families, picky eaters, and anyone looking to avoid common allergens like dairy, soy, and gluten. It contains 25 essential vitamins and minerals, is low in sugar, and has a rich chocolate flavor that kids actually enjoy.

    Plant-Powered Complete Nutrition Shake is easy to serve and doesn't require any mixing or prep. Just shake it well and serve it cold. It could be appropriate for breakfast, lunchboxes, or afternoon snacks.

  4. My First Plant Shake

    My First Plant Shake by Else Nutrition comes in Vanilla flavor and could support your child's growth with real, plant-based ingredients. The makers state that this shake includes more than 20 vital nutrients like iron, calcium, zinc, vitamin D, and B-complex vitamins, all important for energy, immunity, and development.

    With a smooth vanilla taste that kids enjoy, this shake works well as part of breakfast, a midday snack, or a quick nutrition boost during the day. It's easy to prepare as you just need to take a scoop, mix, and serve.

    My First Plant Shake by Else Nutrition is also non-GMO and Clean Label Project Purity Certified, meaning it has been independently tested to be free from heavy metals, pesticides, and harmful toxins.

  5. European Recipe Toddler Signature Complete Nutrition Drink

    Else Nutrition claims that its European Recipe Signature Complete Nutrition Drink meets Europe's strict nutritional and safety standards. This drink could support healthy growth by providing a balanced combination of plant-based protein, healthy fats, and essential carbohydrates sourced from real, whole foods like buckwheat, almonds, and tapioca.

    The makers state that European Recipe Signature Complete Nutrition Drink combines omega-3 DHA, a nutrient scientifically linked to brain and vision development in early childhood. This could make it a suitable option for parents focused on supporting their child's cognitive health.

  6. Toddler Omega Value Pack

    The Toddler Omega Value Pack from Else Nutrition offers a plant-based, complete, and balanced drink that may support toddlers after their first year of life. The brand claims that this drink uses over 80% real, minimally processed ingredients like buckwheat, almonds, and tapioca, providing the essential nutrients toddlers need to grow strong and healthy.

    As per the official website, the Toddler Omega Value Pack includes plant-based Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids, which may play a critical role in brain and vision development during early childhood. Studies show these nutrients help support memory, attention, and healthy brain function as children grow. This toddler drink could be especially helpful for kids with dietary restrictions. It's free from common allergens and made to be gentle on sensitive stomachs.

Else Nutrition Advantages

  1. Parent-Centric Approach

    Else Nutrition takes a parent-first approach by staying connected with families and listening to their needs. The brand uses surveys like the Parent Nutritional Feedback Survey and Child Health and Diet Survey that could help learn about common concerns, such as taste, food allergies, and ingredient safety. This may help them improve their products based on real parent experiences.

    To support families beyond just nutrition, Else also offers helpful tools like their Parenting with Nutrition blog, expert-led webinars, and simple guides like Healthy Eating for Kids. These resources are made to help parents make smart, healthy choices for their children.

    The brand claims to maintain transparency by providing detailed ingredient breakdowns and sourcing information on each product page.

    With a strong focus on plant-based, allergen-free formulations, Else Nutrition enables parents to make confident, informed choices in line with their children's health needs.

  2. Strategic Partnerships

    Else Nutrition partners with a globally recognized Scientific Advisory Board composed of experts in pediatric nutrition, gastroenterology, and allergy. Key members include Dr. Susan Baker (former Chairperson of the AAP Committee on Nutrition), Dr. Jon Vanderhoof (Pediatric Gastroenterologist at Boston Children's Hospital), Prof. Hania Szajewska (former Secretary of ESPGHAN), Prof. Carina Venter (Associate Professor, University of Colorado), and Dr. Bo Lönnerdal (Professor Emeritus, UC Davis). These advisors contribute to product development, clinical validation, and parent education to ensure that Else's offerings are evidence-based and nutritionally sound.

    While Else Nutrition has not partnered directly with the American Academy of Pediatrics, its formulations, and resources have been developed with input from leading professionals and align with broadly accepted pediatric guidelines. This strategic collaboration supports Else's mission to provide clean-label, plant-based nutrition options tailored to children's health and dietary needs.

  3. Innovations In Nutritional Science

    Else Nutrition focuses on advancing nutritional science through rigorous product development, utilizing whole plant ingredients, and conducting independent testing to ensure safety and purity. The company emphasizes product integrity by testing for over 400 contaminants, including heavy metals and pesticides, ensuring high-quality, safe products for children. Else Nutrition continues to expand its range with specialized offerings like the Super Cereal and the Complete Toddler Shake, designed to meet the nutritional needs of infants and toddlers with convenient, nutrient-dense options. While clinical trials supporting efficacy are part of their process, specific collaborations with research institutions like UC Berkeley are not documented.

Else Nutrition Limitations

  1. Newer Brand

    Else Nutrition is a newer brand in the child nutrition market, having been founded in 2018. Despite being in business for over a decade, it lacks the long-established presence of major competitors like Kendamil, which parents have trusted for over 60 years. Else is still in the process of building brand recognition and consumer loyalty, meaning it doesn't have the same extensive history or a broad, established customer base.

    Else's products are relatively new to mainstream pediatric healthcare practices and don't yet have the same level of endorsement from prominent pediatric institutions as older, more established brands. Their focus on plant-based and allergen-free formulas is innovative but also means they are working to shift consumer habits, as many parents are more accustomed to traditional dairy-based formulas. This limited historical presence and ongoing brand-building mean Else is still growing its market share and brand credibility in a competitive industry.

  2. Consumer Transition

    Consumer Transition is a limitation for Else Nutrition, as the brand faces challenges in convincing parents to switch from well-established dairy-based formulas like Enfamil and Similac to their plant-based alternatives, such as the Else Plant-Based Complete Nutrition for Toddlers or the Else Super Cereal. These traditional brands have built strong, long-term customer loyalty, making it difficult for Else to gain trust quickly in a competitive market.

    Parents also express concerns about whether plant-based formulas, like Else's Toddler Nutrition or Kids Shakes, can provide the same level of nutrition, taste, and digestibility as dairy-based products. Despite the scientific research backing Else's offerings, some parents are skeptical about whether a plant-based formula can adequately support a child's growth, especially for toddlers transitioning from a dairy-based diet.

    Moreover, shifting from dairy to plant-based formulas requires a broader change in dietary habits and lifestyle. For many parents, this involves rethinking their child's entire nutritional routine, which can feel daunting.

Else Nutrition Alternatives Brands

  1. KateFarms

    KateFarms specializes in plant-based nutrition for children and adults with complex medical conditions. Their formulas are commonly used under clinical supervision in hospitals or for patients requiring enteral feeding.

    In contrast, Else Nutrition is formulated for toddlers and children in typical developmental stages, offering more everyday nutritional support.

    While both avoid dairy, soy, and gluten, KateFarms products often include pea protein as the primary protein source, which provides a complete amino acid profile. Else Nutrition, on the other hand, relies on almond butter and buckwheat, which might not be complete in essential amino acids like lysine and methionine, potentially requiring more protein diversity elsewhere in a child's diet.

    KateFarms formulas are calorie-dense and designed for conditions such as failure to thrive, gastrointestinal issues, or post-surgical recovery. These formulas provide medically targeted macronutrient ratios and micronutrient levels, including therapeutic doses of vitamins like B12, D3, and zinc, often exceeding standard dietary reference intakes.

    Else Nutrition offers a more moderate nutritional profile, aligning with general toddler growth needs rather than therapeutic intervention. While Else includes omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids for brain development, the energy and protein content in its products is lower than what KateFarms delivers for a similar volume.

    Else Nutrition emphasizes minimal processing and whole food-based ingredients. Over 80% of its ingredients come from whole foods like almonds, tapioca, and buckwheat. KateFarms, although also non-GMO and organic, uses more extensively processed ingredients to meet clinical nutrition standards, including added synthetic amino acids and isolated vitamins for precise nutrient delivery.

  2. Kendamil

    Kendamil is a family-owned British brand that has been producing baby formula for over 60 years. The brand stands out by excluding ingredients like palm oil, fish oil, soy oil, maltodextrin, and corn syrup from its recipes.

    The brand's dairy-based infant formula is made in the United Kingdom, using whole cow's milk as its primary ingredient. It avoids palm oil and soy, which may appeal to health-conscious parents.

    Kendamil also offers Goat Formula, which is made with A2 goat milk and whey, ideal for babies with sensitive stomachs or those who experience difficulty with cow's milk.

    For babies transitioning to solids, the brand provides Weaning Porridges in flavors like banana, apple and blackcurrant, and creamy baby porridge, specifically designed to help make weaning an easier process.

    Kendamil's range includes Supplements to support babies' feeding needs as they grow. All of these formulas are claimed to be certified vegetarian, kosher, and halal.

    In contrast, Else Nutrition offers plant-based, dairy- and soy-free formulas made with almond butter, buckwheat, and tapioca. This makes Else a more appropriate option for toddlers with lactose intolerance, cow's milk protein allergy, or families following a vegan lifestyle, whereas Kendamil is not suitable for children with dairy sensitivity or vegan households.

    Kendamil offers complete animal-derived proteins, which naturally contain all essential amino acids in bioavailable forms. The brand claims that its proteins could mimic the nutritional profile of breast milk and are especially beneficial for growth during infancy.

    Else Nutrition, while plant-based, combines various ingredients to deliver a full macronutrient profile, but it does not inherently provide a complete amino acid profile, especially lacking in lysine and methionine. This may be a limitation for children who rely on Else as a primary protein source unless supported by a varied diet.

    While Kendamil is primarily focused on infants under 12 months, though it offers follow-on formulas, Else Nutrition is designed specifically for toddlers 12 months and older.

Pros

  • Else Nutrition claims that its offerings are free from dairy, soy, gluten, corn syrup, and GMOs.
  • Its products are developed with input from pediatricians and nutritionists to meet children's specific nutritional needs.
  • Claims to use whole foods like organic almonds, buckwheat, and tapioca to deliver balanced nutrition.

Cons

  • Once opened, the brand's products may have a limited shelf life, requiring prompt consumption to avoid spoilage.
  • Some people may find Else Nutrition costly, especially those with a tight budget.

How Did We Evaluate Else Nutrition?

  1. Consumer Responses And Feedback

    Our evaluation of Else Nutrition is based on a thorough review of customer feedback from Amazon and the performance of the brand's products in real-world scenarios.

    Else Nutrition is appreciated for its plant-based ingredients, making it an appealing option for families with children who have allergies to dairy or soy. Parents mention liking the brand's product to improve their child's nutrition without causing adverse reactions, especially in cases of CMPA (Cow's Milk Protein Allergy). This has positioned Else as a trusted alternative for families seeking a non-dairy option that is both nutritious and gentle on sensitive systems.

    However, while the ingredients themselves received positive feedback, there were instances where the product did not meet the needs of all users. A few parents reported allergic reactions or gastrointestinal discomfort, highlighting the need for caution when introducing new formulas, especially for children with multiple food sensitivities.

    As per the Amazon reviews, some children enjoyed the flavor, while others, including adults, found it unpalatable. These varying experiences indicate the subjective nature of taste and the potential limitations for those seeking a universally loved product.

    Convenience is another critical factor in our evaluation. Else Nutrition's ready-to-drink shakes, which are easy to serve and transport, earned appreciation for their practicality, especially for busy families. However, a few reviews noted that the shakes' thick consistency could be off-putting for some children, affecting their overall enjoyment of the product.

  2. Refund And Return Policy

    We evaluated Else Nutrition based on the structure, clarity, and fairness of its refund policy. The brand offers a 30-day window to report dissatisfaction, defects, or adverse reactions, which gives you a reasonable time frame to request a refund or replacement. They handle defective or health-related issues responsibly by covering return shipping and offering either a refund or a replacement. If you're unsatisfied with just one product, you don't have to return it unless it's a Ready-to-Drink (RTD) product, making the process somewhat more convenient.

    That said, Else Nutrition's policy also puts notable limits on how much support you can expect. Refunds for dissatisfaction are allowed only once per customer, and future claims for the same product are not guaranteed. Shipping and handling charges are never refunded, even for defective products, and you're responsible for return shipping if you're unhappy with a product and want to send it back. The company also enforces strict “Final Sale” conditions, meaning you can't return or exchange these items under any circumstances. Subscription cancellations are manageable, but they require action at least two business days before your next charge.

    While Else Nutrition's refund policy is clear and has some fair points, its one-time-only return limit and non-refundable fees suggest a more cautious approach that doesn't fully favor the customer.

  3. Value For Money

    Else Nutrition's Complete Nutrition Shake is priced at $11.95 for a 4-pack, coming out to just under $3 per bottle. That's a fair price for a plant-based, allergen-friendly option aimed at children. The product is claimed to be free from dairy, soy, and gluten and made with organic ingredients features, which usually add up costs. While not the cheapest nutritional drink on the market, it offers good value if you're looking for simple nutrition without common allergens.

    Kate Farms' Kids Nutrition shakes cost $43.00 for a case of 12, or about $3.58 per bottle. That's on the higher end of the spectrum, but the pricing reflects its more specialized formulation. These shakes are designed for children with medical or dietary needs, offering organic ingredients and a robust mix of protein, vitamins, and minerals. If you're looking for a doctor-recommended option that supports kids with more complex nutritional requirements, the higher cost can be justified by the added benefits.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Is Else Nutrition A Good Choice For Picky Eaters?
    Else Nutrition uses real foods like almonds, buckwheat, and tapioca in its products, which are easy to digest. The brand's offerings also come in flavor options like vanilla, banana, and mango, which picky eaters may particularly favor.
  • Can Else Nutrition Products Be Used As A Meal Replacement?
    No, the baby formulas and products from Else Nutrition are not intended to substitute a full, solid-food meal. They may act as a nutritional supplement for toddlers and may help bridge nutrition gaps in their diet.
  • Does Else Nutrition Sell in Retail Stores?
    Yes, Else Nutrition products are available in various retail stores across the U.S. The official website of Else Nutrition also provides a store locator to help search for retail outlets near you.

Conclusion

Else Nutrition focuses on providing plant-based and allergen-free supplements to support healthy growth and development in babies, toddlers, and children. The formulations from Else Nutrition aim to help fill the nutritional gaps in kids with dietary restrictions, food allergies, or those following a plant-based lifestyle.

The brand remains committed to high standards of safety and transparency. Their formulations are free from harmful substances, like heavy metals and pesticides. These formulations are also developed using science-backed processes and follow pediatric nutrition standards.

However, Else Nutrition does come with some limitations. It is a newer brand and does not have the same long-standing history or wide recognition as major names like Kendamil. Some parents may also hesitate to switch from dairy-based formulas due to taste, nutrition concerns, or uncertainty about plant-based diets.

Before choosing Else Nutrition, parents should consider their child's dietary needs, any food sensitivities, and whether a plant-based formula aligns with their family's health goals. Consulting a pediatrician can also help if parents are unsure about Else Nutrition.

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This project was supported in part by NSF Grant IIS-03-25867 (ITR: An Electronic Field Guide: Plant Exploration and Discovery in the 21st Century) and by the Washington Biologists' Field Club.
Any opinions, findings, conclusions or recommendations expressed in this material are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official views, opinions, or policy of the National Science Foundation (NSF).