Alfamino Amino Acid-Based Formula

When a baby or child can't tolerate intact or partially broken-down proteins, an amino acid-based formula is often the next step. Alfamino is a hypoallergenic formula built on 100% free amino acids — the elemental form of protein — making it a nutritional option for infants and children with severe cow's milk protein allergy, multiple food protein allergies, or malabsorption conditions such as short bowel syndrome. Because the protein arrives fully broken down, there's nothing left for a sensitized immune system to react to, which is why clinicians turn to formulas like these when extensively hydrolyzed options haven't done enough.

The line is organized by age and calorie needs. Alfamino Infant Formula with Iron (unflavored, 14.1 oz. powder) is designed for birth to 12 months at 150 calories per serving, delivering complete nutrition during a stage when growth can't be compromised. As children transition past their first birthday, Alfamino Junior Pediatric Formula steps up to 250 calories per serving for ages 1 to 13 — available unflavored for tube feeding or mixing, and in a Vanilla variant for children taking formula by mouth who need a more palatable option.

Parents most often ask how Alfamino differs from a regular hypoallergenic formula: the key is that amino acid-based formulas contain no peptides at all, whereas hydrolyzed formulas still contain small protein fragments that a highly reactive child may respond to. Alfamino also includes a fat blend with medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) to aid absorption in children with compromised gut function. All products here are unflavored powder unless noted, mix with water per label directions, and should be introduced under the guidance of a pediatrician or dietitian.

Explore related nutritional support in our Nutrition & Feeding category for feeding supplies and complementary specialty formulas.