Malnutrition remains the leading cause of death in young children under 5. Even a few years ago, there was no guaranteed measure to combat this deadly condition, but today, due to the awareness spread by the World Organizations, RUSF, and peanut butter manufacturers (who also happen to manufacture RUSF at a large scale) malnutrition has become a topic of inquisitiveness and people are interested in knowing how to combat this deadly condition in an effective manner.
RUSF which stands for Ready-to-Use Supplementary Food is a well-accepted means to fight the effects of malnutrition in young children under 5. So much so that world organizations consider it the best possible treatment plan to restore health and healthy weight in children.
RUSF is a packet food rich in roasted peanuts, milk powder, sugar, non-hydrogenated vegetables, vegetable oil, emulsifiers, and vitamin-mineral premix. The energy-intensive peanut-based RUSF paste offers an intensive energy boost coupled with a substantial micronutrient fortification for children between 6 & 59 months (5 years).
Generally, RUSF is meant to be consumed over a time period of two to three months as part of a nutrition plan for children with moderate acute malnutrition.
How does RUSF work?
RUSF is packed with nutrient-rich ingredients. Peanuts, which are a prime ingredient, are responsible for nourishing the body with micro and macronutrients that the child otherwise might not be getting enough of. The lipid-based paste is energy-rich and can be easily consumed by the child and processed by their digestive system, giving the body the nutrients it needs to fight the impact of malnutrition and maintain a healthy weight.
RUSF contains Vitamins A, B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, C, D, E & K. It also contains calcium, potassium, magnesium, manganese, zinc, copper, iron, and sodium. All the minerals in RUSF work to strengthen the body and fulfill nutrient deficits, for healthy physical and mental development. It helps malnourished children gain weight quickly, thereby restoring health at its best.
Benefits of RUSF
- Nutrient-rich ready-to-eat supplement
- A 24 months shelf life without refrigeration
- Low moisture content; less risk of contamination
- Superior control of intake
- Less risk of nutrient loss
- Convenient to handle by caregivers
- Can be eaten directly from the package
- No dilution, mixing, or cooking needed
Nutritional Content in 100 Gms of RUSF
- Energy: 510 -560kcal
- Protein: 11 – 16g (3.6g from milk protein sources)
- Lipids: 26 – 36g
- Omega: 6 fatty acids: 2.6 – 6.10g
- Omega: 3 fatty acids: 0.3 – 1.8g
- Trans fats: <3% of total fat
RUSF is a world organization approved supplement to combat cases of malnutrition in children under the age of 5. As a leading peanut butter manufacturer in India, Nuflower manufactures Ready-to-Use Supplementary Food to help treat moderate acute malnutrition.