Soy-Protein Formulas: Recommendations for Use in Infant Feeding

Many infant formulas are available as alternatives to breast-feeding. These formulas are necessary and valuable resources in the nutriture of infants, but it is important to evaluate their use and efficacy periodically. Soybean preparations were suggested as a milk substitute by Hill and Stuart’ in 1929. Since then, the use of these products has expanded appreciably, and they are used for an estimated 10% to 15% of all formula-fed infants. This increase in use has prompted examination of the following critical issues about the indications for use of soy-protein formulas in infants. (1) Are soyprotein formulas an adequate nutritional substitute for cow’s milk-based formulas in full-term infants? (2) Is it appropriate to recommend soy-protein for0 mulas to provide a lactose-free formula, or are there better alternatives? (3) Are soy-protein formulas ever indicated for use in premature infants? (4) What is the evidence for and against the use of soyprotein formulas in the management of cow’s milkprotein allergy? (5) What is the role of soy-protein formulas in prophylaxis of allergic disease? (6) What is the evidence for and against the use of soyprotein formulas in the management of “colic”? Examination of these issues will hopefully, provide a more clear-cut basis for decisions regarding the use of soy-protein formulas and updated recommendations for the role of soy-protein formulas in feeding human infants.