In infants with galactosemia, which formula is appropriate to use as a milk substitute?

• A. Rice-based infant formula
• B. Regular cow's milk
• C. Soy-based infant formula
• D. Almond milk

Answer: (C)

Galactosemia requires eliminating galactose from an infant’s diet, so the formula must be free of lactose/galactose and provide complete nutrition. Soy-based infant formula is lactose-free, delivering adequate protein and calories when fortified, making it a suitable milk substitute for infants with galactosemia. Regular cow's milk and standard formulas contain lactose (and thus galactose) and are not appropriate. Almond milk lacks sufficient protein and nutrients for infants. Rice-based formulas can be lactose-free but are not typically used as the sole nutrition for infants due to inadequate nutrient profile and other concerns.