Nutritional profiling of foods for Phenylketonuria

Abstract

A phenylalanine (Phe)-restricted diet is the only effective treatment in patients with classical phenylketonuria (PKU) in Latvia. This study analysed the protein and Phe content of 28 foods, including some Latvian-specific foods, aiming to expand the range of foods given to the Latvian PKU population. After consultation with Latvian parents and patients a list of preferred foods for analysis was collated. Preference was given to local foods and products were no or limited information about protein and Phe content was available. All food samples were collected from November 2023 until May 2024. Foods were analyzed by protein and amino acid content and compared with international databases. Phe content is reported as mg Phe/100 g of product. The highest amounts were found in microgreens from peas 200 mg/100 g, nettle 210 mg/100 g, wild garlic 140 mg/100 g.The Phe amount in garden cress and sunflower seed microgreen was 150 mg and 140 mg/100 g. A lower Phe content was found in radish 100 mg/100 g and broccoli microgreens: 97 mg/100 g. This study demonstrates that microgreens, and traditional products like sorrel and nettles should be measured within a Phe restricted diet. Rhubarb, celery stalk, raisins and leeks can be eaten without measurement or restriction.

Keywords: Amino acid; Diet; Inherited metabolic disorder; Nutrient; Phenylketonuria.