Ready-to-use therapeutic food

Ready-to-use therapeutic food (RUTF) is a high-energy, micronutrient-enriched paste used for the treatment of severe acute malnutrition (SAM). It is made from ingredients such as milk powder, sugar, vegetable oils, and a vitamin and mineral mix, designed to provide all the nutrients required for recovery. RUTF has the advantage of being safe and easy to use at home, requiring no preparation or refrigeration, which makes it particularly effective in resource-limited settings.

Composition

RUTF is carefully formulated to meet the specific nutritional needs of children suffering from SAM. The typical composition includes:

• Milk powder: Provides high-quality protein and lactose.
• Vegetable oil: A source of essential fatty acids and energy.
• Sugar: Acts as an immediate source of energy and improves taste.
• Vitamin and mineral mix: Ensures the provision of essential micronutrients.
• Peanut butter or other legume paste: Serves as a base, making the product palatable and providing additional proteins and fats.

Benefits

The benefits of RUTF include:

• No need for refrigeration: RUTF can be stored at ambient temperatures.
• Ease of use: It can be consumed directly from the packet, requiring no mixing with water, which reduces the risk of contamination.
• High efficacy: Studies have shown high recovery rates from SAM when RUTF is used as part of a community-based management program.
• Acceptability: Its taste and consistency are generally well accepted by children.

Implementation

RUTF is a cornerstone of the Community-based Management of Acute Malnutrition (CMAM) approach, which allows for the treatment of SAM in the community setting. This approach has significantly increased the reach and effectiveness of malnutrition treatment programs.

Challenges

Despite its benefits, the use of RUTF faces several challenges:

• Cost: The high cost of ingredients, particularly milk powder, makes RUTF relatively expensive.
• Sustainability: Concerns exist about the long-term sustainability of relying on imported products like RUTF in resource-poor settings.
• Local production: Efforts to produce RUTF locally have been explored to reduce costs and improve sustainability.

Future Directions

Research is ongoing to find more cost-effective and locally sustainable alternatives to the traditional RUTF formula. Innovations include exploring alternative protein sources and reducing reliance on imported ingredients.