Protein substitutes are typically presented in powder format and reconstituted in water to a set volume, but may also be offered in ready-to-drink formats or as a gel. Notwithstanding recent advancements related to the taste, scent and texture (organoleptic properties) of commercially available protein substitutes, a small proportion of PKU patients choose to consume tablet-based protein substitutes. In this sense, anecdotal evidence suggests that in the UK approximately 80-100 PKU patients consume tablet protein substitutes. Despite the need to consume large quantities, protein substitutes in tablet format may help overcome some of the aforementioned limitations compared to powdered or ready-to-drink preparations, but also offer additional benefits including convenience and reduced preparation.
Although usage of tablet-based protein substitutes is low in comparison to powdered preparations, early evidence from MacDonald and colleagues suggests tablet protein substitutes are an equally effective strategy to manage PKU in older children, teenagers and adults. Tablet-based protein substitutes, however, only offer a balanced mixture of essential and non-essential amino acids. Considering the daily burden and discipline required to follow the restrictive low-protein diet, reports suggest achieving full compliance with tablet-based protein substitutes is difficult, and this becomes especially challenging when given alongside multi vitamin supplements. To elaborate, patients solely consuming protein substitutes in tablet format may be required to consume 70-140 tablets per day (average = 75 tablets per day) alongside an additional 5 prescribable vitamin and mineral tablets. In this instance, it may be beneficial if tablet-based protein substitutes combined amino acids with vitamins, minerals and trace elements.
At present, tablets combining amino acids with vitamins, minerals and trace elements are currently unavailable. As such, the sponsor has produced a tablet-based protein substitute designed for individuals aged 8 years and older. Developed specifically for the dietary management of proven PKU, the phenylalanine-free protein substitute tablets comprise an adapted mixture of essential and non-essential amino acids (excluding phenylalanine) and are combined with carbohydrates, DHA, vitamins and selected minerals and trace elements. As such, the aim of this intervention trial is therefore to evaluate the acceptability (compliance, gastrointestinal tolerance and palatability) of the tablets, while also capturing information related to blood amino acid profiles, dietary intake, anthropometry and safety as part of a low phenylalanine dietary regimen in PKU patients. Thirty eligible PKU patients (≥ 8 years), identified as current tablet users, will be recruited. Patients will firstly observe a 7-day baseline period. During baseline, patients will continue with their existing diet and protein substitute prescription before receiving the tablets daily for 28 days in addition to appropriate nutritional management.
