The ASCIA Guide for Milk Substitutes in Cow’s Milk Allergy (CMA) has been updated in in April 2023 to include new rice protein based formula, and is available open access on the ASCIA website www.allergy.org.au/hp/papers/guide-for-milk-substitutes-cows-milk-allergy  

There are now two brands of rice protein based formula available in Australia:

• Alula^® Gold Allergy (Sanulac)
• Novalac^® Allergy (Aspen Australia)

Whilst there are advantages in having multiple brands of rice protein based formula available, the updated ASCIA Guide includes statements on page 2 regarding:

• Product specific hypo-allergenicity and growth studies.
• Limited data on the use of rice protein based formula in non-IgE mediated food allergy.

Breastfeeding is recommended for the many benefits it brings to both the mother and child. If breastfeeding is not possible, the ASCIA Guide for Milk Substitutes in CMA can:

• Assist health professionals in recommending substitute milks when an infant has CMA. 
• Provide information about safe, nutritionally equivalent alternatives if a particular specialised formula is not available due to supply issues.

Exclusion of cow’s milk from a breastfeeding mother’s diet is not necessarily required in CMA and should be discussed with a specialist. If undertaken, cow’s milk exclusion should be supervised by a dietitian. 

This news item was issued on 14 April 2023 by Jill Smith, CEO of ASCIA, the peak professional body for clinical immunology and allergy in Australia and New Zealand.