All About Peptides: Everything You Need to Know

To understand peptide nutrition, let’s start with the basics of protein. Protein helps repair and build cells, and it’s an important component for growth and development. Nutrition formulas contain protein in various forms: intact (standard formulas), hydrolyzed (peptide formulas), and elemental. We like to use a metaphor of a string of pearls to explain the difference between our intact and hydrolyzed protein formulas. In an elemental formula (which may be recommended if a peptide formula is not tolerated), the protein is completely broken down into its simplest form: individual amino acids, or “pearls.”  

Intact protein (found in a standard formula): The protein remains in its whole form and has not been broken down — it remains a “long strand of pearls.” This type of formula is ideal when digestion and absorption are functioning normally. 

Hydrolyzed protein (found in a peptide formula): The protein is partially broken down (partially hydrolyzed) into smaller chains, or a “shorter strand of pearls.” This type of formula may be recommended when digestion or absorption is impaired or if an intact/standard formula isn’t tolerated. 

What does “hydrolyzed” mean? 

To create hydrolyzed protein, long protein strands are broken down, or unchained, into smaller chains or single amino acids. This process involves breaking down the peptide bonds that hold amino acids together. This is accomplished by using enzymes like the ones produced in the human pancreas or other digestive organs. In simpler terms, hydrolyzed protein makes it easier for your body to digest and absorb protein. 

Who benefits from peptide nutrition? 

Peptide-based nutrition is a valuable option for individuals who have conditions like gastrointestinal diseases, malabsorption issues, and irritable bowel syndrome, among other scenarios. Those with malabsorption difficulties and people with food allergies or sensitivities can usually tolerate a hydrolyzed protein formula better than the others.

What makes Kate Farms peptide nutrition unique? 

Historically, hydrolyzed proteins found in formulas were dairy-based. However, a plant-based peptide formula can be beneficial for those who can’t tolerate dairy products or have milk-based sensitivities. We created Kate Farms peptide formulas with hydrolyzed pea protein, supplemented with other plant-based amino acids.   

All Kate Farms products are plant-based, USDA Organic, and made without the top 9 common allergens to give you and your family a high-quality, plant-based choice you can depend on.