Soy-based Formula Research Articles

A comparative evaluation of the fluoride content in commercially available infant formulae in India: An in vitro study.

The most critical period for enamel fluorosis to develop is during the early years of life when enamel formation occurs. To minimize the risk of dental fluorosis development, monitoring fluoride intake during teeth development has been suggested. As infant formulae are major source of nutrition in infants, it is important to determine the fluoride content in them in order to monitor the fluoride intake in infants. To estimate and comparatively evaluate the fluoride content in different commercially available infant formulae in India. A total of 16 commercially available infant formulae were collected from local pharma/grocery stores, in which 14 were milk based (Group M) and 2 were soy based (Group S). Fluoride content of the formulae was evaluated using ORION F selective electrode. ANOVA test, t-test. The mean F values for groups M and S were found to be 0.031 and 0.07 ppm, respectively. Fluoride content of milk-based formulae was significantly lesser (P < 0.001) than soy-based formulae. Daily fluoride intake through the tested formulae was in the range of 0.013 mg and 0.105 mg when calculated following the manufacturer's preparation guidelines. Infant formulae alone were unlikely to be a risk factor for dental fluorosis, but when reconstituted with optimally fluoridated water, they can be a risk factor for the development of dental fluorosis.

Galactosemia among Positive-screened Patients who Underwent Lactose Challenge: A Review of Records of the Newborn Screening Program.

Newborns screened positive for Galactosemia through Expanded Newborn Screening (ENBS) with borderline levels undergo lactose challenge that requires interruption of breastfeeding temporarily then shifting to soy-based formula. To determine the percentage of Classical Galactosemia (CGal), Non-classical Galactosemia (NCGal), probable mild variant form, and negative Galactosemia among newborns screened positive for Galactosemia who underwent lactose challenge. This is a retrospective study. NBS records were reviewed and data were collected from January 2015 to December 2020. Out of the 117 newborns screened positive for Galactosemia, 58 underwent lactose challenge. Majority were male, term with a birth weight of 2500-4000g and received a final disposition in 4-6 months. Fifteen patients underwent 1-week lactose challenge wherein six reached a resolution on first challenge. Majority, 35 (60.3%) were negative for Galactosemia, six (10.3%) probable mild variant Galactosemia, three (5.2%) NCGal, and no CGal were observed. Fourteen suspected cases (24.1%) are pending final disposition. This study describes the demographics of newborns flagged for Galactosemia who underwent lactose challenge. A 1-week lactose challenge may be recommended to further detect patients who are negative for Galactosemia.

Peripubertal soy isoflavone consumption leads to subclinical hypothyroidism in male Wistar rats.

Exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals during critical windows of development may lead to functional abnormalities in adulthood. Isoflavones are a flavonoid group of phytoestrogens that are recognized by their estrogenic activity and are highly abundant in soybean. Since the thyroid gland presents estrogen receptors and infants, toddlers and teenagers may consume isoflavones from soy-based infant formula and beverages as alternatives to animal milk, we propose to investigate the potential effects of relevant concentrations of soy isoflavones in the regulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary (HP) thyroid axis using peripubertal male rats as an experimental model. Thirty-two 23-day-old male rats were exposed to 0.5, 5, or 50 mg of soy isoflavones/kg from weaning to 60 days of age, when they were euthanized, and the tissues were collected to evaluate the mRNA expression of genes involved in the regulation of the HP thyroid axis and dosages of thyroid hormones (THs). Serum TSH concentrations were increased, while alterations were not observed in serum concentrations of triiodothyronine and thyroxine. Regarding mRNA gene expression, Mct-8 was increased in the hypothalamus, Mct-8, Thra1, and Thrb2 were decreased in the pituitary, and Nis and Pds were reduced in the thyroid. In the heart, Mct8 and Thrb2 were increased, and Thra1 was decreased. In the liver, Mct8, Thra1, and Thrb2 were decreased. These results suggest that the consumption of relevant doses of soy isoflavones during the peripubertal period in males may induce subclinical hypothyroidism, with alterations in the regulation of the HP thyroid axis, modulation of TH synthesis, and peripheral alterations in TH target organs.

Consumption of soy isoflavones during the prepubertal phase delays puberty and causes hypergonadotropic hypogonadism with disruption of hypothalamic-pituitary gonadotropins regulation in male rats

Isoflavones are phytoestrogens with recognized estrogenic activity but may also affect testosterone, corticosterone and thyroid hormone levels in experimental models. However, the molecular mechanisms involved in these alterations are still unclear. Isoflavones are present in soy-based infant formula, in breast milk after the consumption of soy by the mother and are widely used for the preparation of beverages consumed by toddlers and teenagers. In this sense, we proposed to investigate the effects of soy isoflavone exposure during the prepubertal period, a recognized window of sensitivity for endocrine disruption, over the hypothalamic-pituitary-testicular (HPT) axis. For this, 42 3-week-old male Wistar rats were exposed to 0.5, 5 or 50 mg of soy isoflavones/kg from postnatal day (PND) 23 to PND60. We evaluated body growth, age at puberty, serum concentrations of LH, FSH, testosterone and estradiol, and the expression of the transcripts (mRNA) of genes encoding key genes controlling the hypothalamic-pituitary-testicular (HPT) axis. In the hypothalamus, we observed an increase in Esr1 mRNA expression (0.5 and 5 mg). In the pituitary, we observed an increase in Gnrhr mRNA expression (50 mg), a reduction in Lhb mRNA expression (0.5 mg), and a reduction in Ar mRNA expression. In the testis, we observed an increase in Lhcgr mRNA expression (50 mg) and a reduction in Star mRNA expression (0.5 and 5 mg). The serum levels of LH (5 and 50 mg) and FSH (0.5 mg) were increased, while testosterone and estradiol were reduced. Puberty was delayed in all groups. Taken together, these results suggest that prepubertal consumption of relevant levels of soy isoflavones disrupts the HPT axis, causing hypergonadotropic hypogonadism and altered expression levels of key genes regulating the axis.

Effects of Soy-Based Infant Formula on Obesity and Neurodevelopment in an Autism Mouse Model

ObjectivesMice fed soy-based diets exhibit increased weight gain compared to mice fed casein-based diets and the effects are more pronounced in a model of fragile X syndrome (FXS; Fmr1KO). FXS is a neurodevelopmental disability characterized by intellectual impairment, seizures, autistic behavior, anxiety, and obesity. We hypothesize that high consumption of soy protein during postnatal development is a dietary exposure that increases the risk of developing obesity, particularly in vulnerable populations such as FXS. Here, we analyzed body weight as a function of mouse age, diet, and genotype to determine the effect of diet on weight gain. We also assessed plasma protein biomarker expression and behavior in mice in response to diet. Medical record and survey data were employed to identify associations between infant formula, weight gain and neurological development in children.MethodsMethods include prospective and retrospective evaluation of weight gain and neurological outcomes in mice and humans, respectively, as a function of postnatal diet.ResultsJuvenile Fmr1KO mice fed a soy protein-based rodent chow throughout gestation and postnatal development exhibit increased weight gain compared to mice fed casein-based purified ingredient diet or grain-based, low phytoestrogen chow. Adolescent and adult Fmr1KO mice fed a soy-based infant formula diet exhibited increased weight gain compared to reference diets. Increased body mass was due to increased lean mass. Wild type male mice fed soy-based infant formula exhibited increased learning in a passive avoidance paradigm and Fmr1KO male mice had a deficit in nest building. Mice consuming a soy-based infant formula diet exhibited altered expression of numerous plasma proteins including the adipose hormone leptin and the β-amyloid degrading enzyme neprilysin. Consumption of soy-based infant formula was not associated with obesity at 6 years of age in children but was associated with an increased need for support in school.ConclusionsIn conclusion, single-source, soy-based diets may contribute to the development of obesity and the exacerbation of neurological phenotypes in developmental disabilities through a β-amyloid-mediated pathway.Funding SourcesThis work was supported by the National Institutes of Health, FRAXA Research Foundation, RayBiotech and the United States Department of Agriculture.

Increased Incidence of Epilepsy in Response to Soy-Based Infant Formula in a National Korean Cohort Study

Increased Incidence of Epilepsy in Response to Soy-Based Infant Formula in a National Korean Cohort Study

WANITA 62 TAHUN DENGAN MALNUTRISI BERAT DAN TOXIC EPIDERMAL NECROLYSIS

Malnutrition and skin problems are interrelated; therefore malnutrition will reduce the function of innate and adaptive immunity. The skin contains immune cells that is crucial for host defense. A 62-year-old female patient was diagnosed with Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN) due to an unknown drug allergy and severe malnutrition. The patient has a history of inadequate intake for 1 year ago and has worsened in the last 2 weeks due to blisters all over the skin, especially in the labium oris area after taking an unknown analgetic medication. Nutrition therapy had given with a target of 1900 kcal/day gradually increased to 2200 kcal/day through enteral and parenteral with a protein of 1.5 grams/kgIBW/day. Because of patients has history of aversion to food types such as chicken, eggs, fish, cow's milk, and dairy products, so patient had given soy-based polymeric formula and Parenteral Nutrition Supplement to achieve nutrition requirement. Supplementations administered were zinc, vitamin A, vitamin B complex, and vitamin C. At the end of the treatment period there were metabolic improvement such as wound healing without secondary skin infection and improvement of albumin serum from 2,3 g/dL to 3,3 g/ dL. Patients experienced side effects due to systemic corticosteroids in the form of moon face, severe muscle wasting, hyperglycemia, and hypertension. However, the use of systemic corticosteroids should pay attention to whether the benefits outweigh the disadvantages.&#x0D; Keywords: toxic epidermal necrolysis, malnutrition, corticosteroid, aversion

Effects of Soy-Based Infant Formula on Weight Gain and Neurodevelopment in an Autism Mouse Model.

Mice fed soy-based diets exhibit increased weight gain compared to mice fed casein-based diets, and the effects are more pronounced in a model of fragile X syndrome (FXS; Fmr1KO). FXS is a neurodevelopmental disability characterized by intellectual impairment, seizures, autistic behavior, anxiety, and obesity. Here, we analyzed body weight as a function of mouse age, diet, and genotype to determine the effect of diet (soy, casein, and grain-based) on weight gain. We also assessed plasma protein biomarker expression and behavior in response to diet. Juvenile Fmr1KO mice fed a soy protein-based rodent chow throughout gestation and postnatal development exhibit increased weight gain compared to mice fed a casein-based purified ingredient diet or grain-based, low phytoestrogen chow. Adolescent and adult Fmr1KO mice fed a soy-based infant formula diet exhibited increased weight gain compared to reference diets. Increased body mass was due to increased lean mass. Wild-type male mice fed soy-based infant formula exhibited increased learning in a passive avoidance paradigm, and Fmr1KO male mice had a deficit in nest building. Thus, at the systems level, consumption of soy-based diets increases weight gain and affects behavior. At the molecular level, a soy-based infant formula diet was associated with altered expression of numerous plasma proteins, including the adipose hormone leptin and the β-amyloid degrading enzyme neprilysin. In conclusion, single-source, soy-based diets may contribute to the development of obesity and the exacerbation of neurological phenotypes in developmental disabilities, such as FXS.

Implicações nutricionais da alimentação vegetariana e vegana no desenvolvimento infantil: uma revisão narrativa

OBJECTIVES: To analyze the risks and benefits of vegetarian and vegan diet in child development, showing possible nutritional deficits and how to manage them. METHODS: This is a current narrative review, related to vegetarian and vegan diets in children and their repercussions on development, searched in MEDLINE®, PubMed® and SciELO databases, using the keywords “vegetarian diet”, “vegan diet”, “child development”. RESULTS: Despite vegetarian and vegan diets presents risks due to deficit of nutrients involved in vital biological functions, a diet based on vegetables provides clinical benefits, such as a lower incidence of cardiovascular disease, cancer and diabetes. Vegan women who desire to become pregnant should have a well-planned and balanced diet. Breastfeeding is the ideal way and the first option to feed vegetarian/vegan babies; however, if exists an impossibility, there are soy-based formulas on the market. The first meals, at six months, should be rich in protein, iron, zinc and the vitamin B12 is the most worrying nutrient due to its participation in child’s neurological development and must be supplemented if necessary. CONCLUSION: Pediatricians should guide families, alert them about the risks and enlighten that a high-class and well-planned diet does not change child development, although requires periodic monitoring for evaluation and possible supplementation.

In vitro impact of genistein and mono(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (MEHP) on the eicosanoid pathway in spermatogonial stem cells

Perinatal exposures to endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) alter the male reproductive system. Infants are exposed to genistein (GEN) through soy-based formula, and to Mono(2-ethylhexyl) Phthalate (MEHP), metabolite of the plasticizer DEHP. Spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) are formed in infancy and their integrity is essential for spermatogenesis. Thus, understanding the impact of EDCs on SSCs is critical. Prostaglandins (PGs) are inflammatory mediators synthesized via the eicosanoid pathway starting with cyclooxygenases (Coxs), that regulate physiological and pathological processes. Our goal was to study the eicosanoid pathway in SSCs and examine whether it was disrupted by GEN and MEHP, potentially contributing to their adverse effects. The mouse C18−4 cell line used as SSC model expressed high levels of Cox1 and Cox2 genes and proteins, and eicosanoid pathway genes similarly to levels measured in primary rat spermatogonia. Treatments with GEN and MEHP at 10 and 100 μM decreased Cox1 gene and protein expression, whereas Cox2, phospholipase A2, prostaglandin synthases transcripts, PGE2, PGF2a and PGD2 were upregulated. Simultaneously, the transcript levels of spermatogonia progenitor markers Foxo1 and Mcam and differentiated spermatogonial markers cKit and Stra8 were increased. Foxo1 was also increased by EDCs in primary rat spermatogonia. This study shows that the eicosanoid pathway is altered during SSC differentiation and that exposure to GEN and MEHP disrupts this process, mainly driven by GEN effects on Cox2 pathway, while MEHP acts through an alternative mechanism. Thus, understanding the role of Cox enzymes in SSCs and how GEN and MEHP exposures alter their differentiation warrants further studies.

Endocrine Disruptors in Baby Formulas: A Literature Review

Baby formulas are foods designed and marketed for feeding babies. The use of baby formulas is increasing worldwide due to various reasons. In parallel, there is increasing concern about endocrine disrupting compounds (EDCs) in baby formulas. EDCs cover a large class of compounds able to interact with the endocrine system. EDCs can disrupt many different hormones, so they are linked to numerous adverse outcomes in human health. Babies are more sensitive to environmental toxins than adults. In this review, the type and amount of some EDCs in the composition of baby formulas in addition to their effects on health are examined. The evaluation of EDCs in baby formulas, which are considered a source for EDCs, has become necessary. Soy-based baby formulas are seen as a source of phytoestrogens for newborns. Organohalogens are high in especially milk-based. Pesticides are generally below the maximum limits. Phthalate levels vary depending on the package content of baby formulas. The phthalate level is higher in formulas with metal packaging. Although bisphenol A (BPA) exposure decreases with the spread of BPA-free packaging, it should be kept in mind that even very low exposures can cause significant health problems. With strict legal regulations, melamine exposure has decreased considerably. Given the susceptibility of babies to EDCs, it is essential to closely monitor the EDCs content of baby formulas.

Neurodevelopmental Outcomes in Infants Fed with Soy Formula: A Retrospective, National Population-Based Observational Cohort Study

BackgroundSoy-based infant formulas are increasingly popular, but data regarding their effects on neurodevelopmental outcomes during early childhood is scanty. ObjectiveThis study investigated the effect of consuming soy-based infant formula at 9–12 mo after birth on the subsequent development of epilepsy, neurodevelopmental disorders, and developmental status. MethodsThis nationwide retrospective administrative study used health screening examinations and linked insurance claims data of children born in Korea during 2008 and 2009. Infants who received soy formula were compared with those who received cow's milk formula using propensity score matching that considered birth history, economic status, clinical conditions, and drug prescription records. Exposure was defined as soy formula feeding determined from questionnaires completed by the parents when children were 9–12 mo old. Outcomes were epilepsy, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and developmental status. Children were followed until 31 December, 2017. ResultsA total of 153,841 eligible participants were enrolled; 11,535 (7.5%) children received soy formula, while 142,864 (92.5%) received cow's milk formula. The incidence rate of epilepsy during the follow-up period was 29.8 per 100,000 person-years (95% CI: 19.90, 42.73) in the soy formula group and 22.6 per 100,000 person-years (95% CI: 16.40, 30.32) in the cow's milk formula group, with no significant difference (aHR: 1.318; 95% CI: 0.825, 2.106). The 2 groups also had no difference based on prespecified analysis using different definitions of epilepsy. Likewise, no significant associations of soy formula with ADHD (aHR: 1.26; 95% CI: 1.00, 1.60) or ASD (aHR: 0.99; 95% CI: 0.54, 1.83), or delays of developmental stages were observed. ConclusionsFeeding with soy formula rather than cow's milk formula had no apparent association with increased risks of epilepsy, ADHD, ASD, and developmental status, according to this cohort composed of a general pediatric population.

Parental Reports on Early Autism Behaviors in Their Children with Fragile X Syndrome as a Function of Infant Feeding.

This study evaluates the prevalence of autistic behaviors in fragile X syndrome as a function of infant diet. Retrospective survey data from the Fragile X Syndrome Nutrition Study, which included data on infant feeding and caregiver-reported developmental milestones for 190 children with fragile X syndrome enrolled in the Fragile X Online Registry with Accessible Database (FORWARD), were analyzed. Exploratory, sex-specific associations were found linking the use of soy-based infant formula with worse autistic behaviors related to language in females and self-injurious behavior in males. These findings prompt prospective evaluation of the effects of soy-based infant formula on disease comorbidities in fragile X syndrome, a rare disorder for which newborn screening could be implemented if there was an intervention. Gastrointestinal problems were the most common reason cited for switching to soy-based infant formula. Thus, these findings also support the study of early gastrointestinal problems in fragile X syndrome, which may underly the development and severity of disease comorbidities. In conjunction with comorbidity data from the previous analyses of the Fragile X Syndrome Nutrition Study, the findings indicate that premutation fragile X mothers should be encouraged to breastfeed.

Early Postnatal Genistein Administration Affects Mice Metabolism and Reproduction in a Sexually Dimorphic Way.

The phytoestrogen genistein (GEN) may interfere with permanent morphological changes in the brain circuits sensitive to estrogen. Due to the frequent use of soy milk in the neonatal diet, we aimed to study the effects of early GEN exposure on some physiological and reproductive parameters. Mice of both sexes from PND1 to PND8 were treated with GEN (50 mg/kg body weight, comparable to the exposure level in babies fed with soy-based formulas). When adult, we observed, in GEN-treated females, an advanced pubertal onset and an altered estrous cycle, and, in males, a decrease of testicle weight and fecal testosterone concentration. Furthermore, we observed an increase in body weight and altered plasma concentrations of metabolic hormones (leptin, ghrelin, triiodothyronine) limited to adult females. Exposure to GEN significantly altered kisspeptin and POMC immunoreactivity only in females and orexin immunoreactivity in both sexes. In conclusion, early postnatal exposure of mice to GEN determines long-term sex-specific organizational effects. It impairs the reproductive system and has an obesogenic effect only in females, which is probably due to the alterations of neuroendocrine circuits controlling metabolism; thus GEN, should be classified as a metabolism disrupting chemical.

Formula choices in infants with cow's milk allergy.

I frequently encounter infants with symptoms suggestive of allergy after being introduced to standard cow's milk formula. Parents are concerned and ask for recommendations regarding formula alternatives. Which formulas are best for children with cow's milk allergy? Cow's milk allergy is common, and the criterion standard for diagnosis is elimination, provocation (with a double-blind, placebo-controlled food challenge protocol), and re-elimination. The allergy is treated by eliminating cow's milk protein from the diet. Formula alternatives include hydrolyzed cow's milk formula, rice-based formula, soy-based formula, and amino acid-based formula, which are all nutritionally adequate alternatives to cow's milk formula. Symptom severity, patient preference, cost, and efficacy are factors to be considered when choosing an alternative.

Exposure assessment of glyphosate residues in soy-based infant formulas from the Brazilian market

Exposure assessment of glyphosate residues in soy-based infant formulas from the Brazilian market

Growth Patterns of Indonesian Infants with Cow's Milk Allergy and Fed with Soy-Based Infant Formula.

PurposeThe use of soy-based infant formula has increased widely in infants with cow's milk allergy (CMA). This study aimed to provide evidence on the growth pattern of CMA infants fed with soy-based infant formula in an Indonesian setting.MethodsA multi-site, intervention study was conducted among full-term and normal birth weight CMA infants. Within six months, the subjects were provided with a soy-based infant formula. Weight, height, and head circumference were measured at baseline, weeks 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, and 24. Adverse events were recorded by scoring atopic dermatitis and symptom-based clinical scores.ResultsBased on the World Health Organization growth chart, we found that most of subjects had normal nutritional status for weight-for-age, length-for-age, weight-for-length, and head-circumference-for-age. There were statistically significant differences between baseline and end-line for weight-for-age, length-for-age, weight-for-length, and head circumference-for-age nutritional status. No allergic symptoms or intolerance toward soy formula were observed at the end of the intervention period.ConclusionThese results show that infants fed with soy-based infant formula have a normal pattern of growth.

Twelve-month growth and accession of tolerance in infants with cow's milk protein allergy compared among those fed with breast milk or alternative formulae.

Cow's milk protein allergy (CMPA) is a common food allergy in children. The impact of various feeding regimens on growth in infants with CMPA is not sufficiently well understood. To investigate 12-month growth and accession of tolerance in infants with CMPA compared among those fed with breast milk or alternative formulae. This retrospective study included CMPA infants with treatment adherence for at least six months. Infants were categorized into the following feeding regimen groups: soy-based formula (SF), extensively hydrolyzed protein formula (EHF), commercial amino acid-based formula (cAAF), new amino acid-based formula (nAAF), chicken-based formula, and breast milk. Weight-for-age z-score (WAZ), length-for-age z-score (LAZ), and weight-for-length z-score (WLZ) were evaluated at diagnosis and at follow-ups. Clinical manifestations, other allergenic foods, and time to tolerance of CMP were assessed. One hundred and sixteen infants were enrolled. Infants consuming EHF had markedly improved WAZ. Infants with one symptom at diagnosis, those who had gastrointestinal symptom, and those with allergy to only CMP had more pronounced growth improvement. Compared to breast milk, SF and EHF were significantly associated with lower probability of tolerance to CMP (HR: 0.14, 95%CI: 0.03-0.62; and, HR: 0.21, 95%CI: 0.07-0.64, respectively). Those allergic to only CMP were more likely to develop tolerance to CMP than those allergic to CMP and other foods. Improvement in growth was significantly more pronounced in CMP-allergic infants fed with EHF. Accession of tolerance to CMP was associated with breast milk as the therapeutic diet.

Efficacy of Soy-Based Formulas in Alleviating Gastrointestinal Symptoms in Infants With Milk-Based Formula Intolerance: A Randomized Clinical Trial.

A randomized, blinded pilot clinical study was conducted to assess gastrointestinal (GI) tolerance in healthy, full-term infants (2-9 weeks old), whose pediatricians recommended a formula change due to perceived cow's milk formula intolerance. Infants were randomized and exclusively fed either a commercial control soy formula (SF; n = 22), an experimental partially hydrolyzed SF (10% hydrolyzed, n = 23), or a 5% hydrolyzed SF (n = 26) for 2 weeks. Age-matched reference cohorts (n = 72) with no GI intolerance on milk-based formula were assessed in parallel. Results indicated that all SF-fed groups contributed to reduction (P < .05) in common GI tolerance symptoms to levels not different from the non-symptomatic reference cohort at study end. The control SF group had more reduced fussiness, gas, and crying and higher formed stools versus hydrolyzed SF groups. In conclusion, the study suggests that SFs reduced GI intolerance symptoms in otherwise healthy infants with poor tolerance on milk-based formulas.

Use of Soy-Based Formulas and Cow's Milk Allergy: Lights and Shadows.

Soybean (Glycine max) is a species of legume native to East Asia and used in childhood diet for over 2,000 years in the East. Soy protein formulas have been available for almost a century. Nowadays, the increase in cow's milk allergy and vegetarian dietary preferences are driving consumers toward cow's milk alternatives. In this paper, we reviewed the nutritional composition of soy-based infant formula and discussed their possible use in pediatric age, mainly focusing on prevention and treatment of cow's milk allergy. Protein quality is determined by digestibility and amino acid content. Purified or concentrated vegetable proteins (e.g., soy protein and gluten) have high digestibility (>95%), similar to those of animal ones. For some intact vegetable products (e.g., whole cereals and pulses), protein digestibility is lower (80–90%). Food processing and heat treatment also influence protein digestibility. Considering these data, we tried to evaluate the possible use of soybean and derivatives in pediatric age, including the nutritional composition of soy formulas and the clinical indications for their use. Moreover, since plant-based beverages are being perceived as healthy by consumers and their use is growing on the market, we recommend that soy drink should not be used as a substitute for infant formulas or cow's milk in children younger than 24 months.