Inside a Pack of Nuflower: What Makes Lipid-Based Ready-to-Use Foods So Effective?

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Malnutrition in 2025 remains a devastating challenge in global health. The World Health Organization (WHO), has identified malnutrition as the major reason for almost half of all deaths in children under the age of five. It is known to cripple the immune system, stunt healthy growth, and hamper cognitive development. All these adverse effects lead to severe weakness in children and in most cases, this even proves to be fatal.

Severe acute malnutrition (wasting) when detected is very dangerous and needs quick treatment to save the child’s life. Usually, severe cases of wasting are treated with traditional remedies like porridges and milk formulas. However, the number of challenges associated with this method (say logistical, cultural, and storage issues) make it fall short and require a more effective mode of treatment; this is where – lipid-based ready-to-use foods come into the picture.

Ready-to-use foods or RUTF are energy-dense, nutrient-rich pastes specifically formulated to treat severe acute malnutrition in children between six months to five years of age. These restorative foods contain macronutrients like fats, proteins, and carbohydrates with essential vitamins and minerals. Unlike traditional therapies that require preparation, RUTFs are pre-packaged, shelf-stable, and ready to eat, making them an ideal choice for regions with limited access to clean water, fuel, and refrigeration.

RUTF is formulated by blending peanuts, sugar, oils and milk powder to produce a paste rich in micronutrients like zinc, vitamin A, and iron (all essential for children suffering from malnutrition). The key benefits of this lifesaving supplement is that they are compact, easy to transport, and have a long shelf life. This enables them to reach even the most vulnerable populations in remote or conflict-stricken areas.

Key Ingredients in Lipid-Based RUTF
Energy-Dense Lipids
Lipids are the backbone of RUTFs. They are rich in high energy content that is needed for rapid weight gain in malnourished children. The fats are not just calorie-rich but are extremely crucial for brain development and the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins.

High-Quality Proteins
Proteins are essential for rebuilding muscle mass and overall growth. Milk powder contained in RUTF holds high biological value for children suffering from SAM, as their bodies need rapid replenishment of nutrients.

 

Essential Micronutrients
Micronutrient deficiencies are a major component of malnutrition. RUTFs are fortified with a comprehensive mix of vitamins and minerals, including:

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    • Zinc and Vitamin A: To boost immunity and reduce risk of infections.
    • Iron: To address anaemia, a common issue in malnourished children.
    • Calcium and Phosphorus: To support bone growth and repair.

Results Upon Using RUTF
On the usage of lipid-based RUTF products from Nuflower, one can expect to see three prominent positive results.

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    1. Healthy Weight Gain
      RUTFs contribute to weight gain in children within just a few weeks of use. The energy-dense composition of RUTF ensures that even small quantities provide a significant caloric intake, essential for children with reduced appetite due to malnutrition.
    2. Better Immunity
      Malnutrition attacks the immune system, making children vulnerable to infections like diarrhoea and pneumonia. Micronutrients in RUTF play a vital role in boosting immunity and reducing the frequency/severity of infections.
    3. Cognitive and Physical Development
      Nutritional interventions with RUTFs have a profound impact on cognitive and physical development. Providing essential nutrients to children during growth periods supports developmental milestones that children may otherwise miss.

Lipid-based ready-to-use foods with their nutritional composition are a critical tool in the fight against hunger. RUTF represents a beacon of hope that saves lives, restores health, and offers vulnerable children a chance at a healthy future.

Nuflower is at the forefront of developing innovative lipid-based RUTFs that are both effective and accessible. NutriFEEDO® is designed to meet international standards while addressing the unique needs of children suffering from malnutrition. Learn more about our RUTF products today.

 

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