Acceptability of Flavor-Masked Therapeutic Foods

The increasing global incidence of autism spectrum disorder highlights the lack of approved pharmacological treatments for its core features. An emerging area of research is focused on the role of cellular dysfunction, including neuroinflammation and oxidative stress, in the etiology of neurodevelopmental/degenerative disorders. Isothiocyanates (ITC) are potent anti-inflammatory phytochemicals found mainly in cruciferous vegetables like broccoli. Sulforaphane (SF) from broccoli sprouts is the most widely studied ITC. A few randomized controlled trials have demonstrated the potential of SF in the improvement of challenging behaviors, social responsiveness, and biomarkers of inflammation in individuals with autism; however, the results have been inconsistent. This is partly attributable to palatability issues as broccoli sprouts have a pungent and grassy flavor, and the pills are difficult to swallow. Thus, there is a critical need for the development of palatable delivery vehicles to mask the flavors of broccoli sprouts power (BSP) and moringa leaves powder (MLP) along with matching placebos. The purpose of this study is to look at the acceptability of snacks with broccoli sprouts powder and moringa leaves. By having children with autism taste these snacks, we will be able to better understand which snacks they like and what they do not like. We may also be able to find patterns by linking their likes and dislikes with their health and behaviors. In the future, we hope this information will help us offer treatments to people with autism to support their health.  

Inclusion criteria: (1) child proband aged 3-12 years, (2) ASD diagnosis of child, verified by medical record provided to the researcher via secure Filelocker by the parent after consent, (3) participant is able to communicate and engage in the tasks, (4) primary language spoken at home is English (5) parent or primary caregiver willing to participate in research with child, (6) parent or caregiver is >18 years old (6) family lives within the United States. 

(1) allergies or restriction in diet to ingredients in our products or (2) serious illness, injury, or medical condition (e.g. blindness) that limits the participant’s ability to engage in the tasks