client
Toddler Supplement
Our Role
We redefined fast-casual loyalty
Today’s Task
What We did Today?
Event: Development of Clean-Label, Fortified Supplement Powder for Ages 1–4 Years
How I Felt Before Starting – Developing a Strong Nutritional Base for Little Ones
It was exciting and challenging to develop a clean-label toddler supplement with traditional millets and pulses. I was aware from the start that developing a product for toddlers would have significant responsibilities, from nutritional adequacy to suitable smoothness and flavor. I ensured that each selected millet and pulse had to undergo careful processing while retaining its natural flavor, nutrients, and be compliant with age-appropriate dietary regulations regarding calcium, iron, protein, and fibre.
It was an awesome experience to combine scientific knowledge with well-established traditional food practices to develop a wholesome, safe, and enjoyable product for children in the critical growth and development stage.
🧪 What We Did Today
Product Development Plan
Our formulation strategy followed these three phases:
- To select millets & pulses suitable for toddlers and traditional suitability.
- To perform soaking, sprouting (for some trials), steaming, roasting, and milling.
- To adjust ingredient ratios and evaluate flavor, texture, and nutritional profile.
Key Steps Followed Today:
All the millets (finger millet, pearl millet, kodo millet, and sorghum) were soaked overnight, drained, and tied in muslin cloth to be sprouted. They are then tray dried to enhance aroma and reduce anti-nutrients. Pulses (green gram and Bengal gram) were also soaked, pressure-steamed, roasted, and milled. All ingredients are mixed 70:30 (millet: pulse) ratio and ground into ultrafine flour for toddler-safe texture.
The mix was double sieved using a mesh sieve to achieve an even texture. It was then blended with milk powder and mild natural sweeteners. These are gently fortified with vitamin B12, D3, and Iron, aligning with toddlers’ RDA and regulatory limits.
The final mix was stored in airtight, food-grade, low-moisture barrier pouches to prevent moisture uptake, spoilage, light degradation, and nutrient loss. The mix will then undergo nutritional analysis, sensory evaluation, shelf-life study, and statistical analysis.
📚 What I Learned?
- Soaking, sprouting, and drying enhanced the bioavailability and nutrient density and reduced the bitterness of the completed formulation.
- Mixing pulses with millet provides a complete protein and better satiety.
Outcome:
The multi-millet and pulse-based toddler supplement developed was smooth, mildly sweet, and nutritionally balanced. Initial nutritional testing showed it performed well in meeting key growth-supporting needs (calcium, iron, protein, vitamins (D3 and B12), and energy).
✅ What Went Well?
- Fine blending and double sieving ensured that the finished product achieved even texture, smoothness, and was free from lumps.
- Nutrient blend showed high potential for the 1–4-year age group.
- Conducting two batches with different drying temperatures helps to choose appropriate drying conditions to achieve even color, taste, and nutritional profile.
⚠️ What Could I Have Done Better
- Could have tried with different proportions of millet and pulse mix, along with nuts and seeds.
- Could have performed trials with blending fruits or spices (like cardamom or banana powder) for flavor variety appropriate for the target age group.
What made to choose FRL
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FRL
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Name:Mohammad Hassan
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Name: Esther
Project Code: 24-FRL-NPD-FTP-PMR-2660-02
Name: Harshad
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