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Is Gelmix a powder or a gel?

Gelmix is actually a powder thickener that gels up when mixed with warm liquids. The reason it is called “Gelmix” is because of the smooth gel-like mouth feel it creates when mixed into liquids.

Is Gelmix free of common allergens?

Yes, Gelmix is free of all common allergens. Gelmix does not contain any dairy, corn, soy, wheat, gluten, lactose or casein. Allergies to carob bean gum (from the galactomannan family) are extremely rare in academic literature. Gelmix is also vegan, GMO free and certified USDA organic and kosher.

Is Gelmix kosher? Halal? Vegan?

Gelmix carries a kosher pareve certification from Kosher Organics, a kosher certifying agency recognized by the Chicago Rabbinical Council (cRc) that certifies only natural and organic products.  Gelmix current kosher certification can be viewed here. Gelmix only uses halal ingredients and is vegan. Gelmix does not contain any animal by-products.

Why do I have to use WARM breast milk or formula?

Gelmix works best with warm breast milk or formula. In order to ensure the powder dissolves easily and creates a thickened consistency, Gelmix must be mixed into lukewarm liquid (around 100°F). Freshly expressed breast milk at body temperature is sufficiently warm. Be careful not to overheat the liquid. Hot water greater than 120°F is too hot and may cause the Gelmix to clump, and breast milk quality deteriorates significantly at temperatures of 120°F.

What liquids can I thicken with Gelmix?

Gelmix was specifically formulated to thicken breast milk and formula, however it can thicken any liquid that can be warmed for mixing. If you’re looking to thicken milk, water or juice for children over 12 months old, Purathick Natural Thickener, for hot and cold liquids, is a better option.

How thick does Gelmix make liquids?

Gelmix effectively thickens liquids to slightly thick (half-nectar), mildly thick (nectar) and moderately thick (honey), however moderately thick liquids are more difficult to pass through a nipple/teat and are NOT typically recommended for infants. This difficulty may increase risk of dehydration due to poor oral intake. Remember, always consult a medical professional before thickening liquids to ensure it is appropriate for your infant’s individual needs.

My baby is gassy after starting Gelmix, is that normal?

Transient gassiness and loose stools are a common side effect among infants using Gelmix for the first time. Gassiness usually subsides within two weeks of use or by reducing the amount used.

I’m getting clumps, what can I do to prevent that?

Hot liquids (>120°F) may cause the Gelmix to clump, so be careful not to overheat. Work quickly when mixing to avoid clumps. When the Gelmix sits in the liquid for too long without mixing, it starts to bind and becomes more difficult to assimilate.

Do I need to cross cut the nipple for thickened feeds?

Gelmix mixes into a smooth texture that flows easily through regular sized nipples. Not all babies have the same strength or drive, so consult with your pediatrician or feeding therapist on where to start. It may be necessary to go up a size for thickened feedings, however cross cutting the nipple is a very dangerous practice and is not necessary for thickened feeds with Gelmix.

Can Gelmix be used with preterm infants?

Gelmix is contraindicated for preterm and low birth weight infants until they have reached a minimum weight of six pounds and a corrected age of 2 weeks (42 weeks postmenstrual age). Remember, always consult a medical professional before thickening liquids to ensure it is appropriate for your infant’s individual needs.

My formula has a probiotic, can I use it with Gelmix?

Heat can damage the probiotic. Since heating the liquid is required to mix with Gelmix, it is not recommended to use ready to feed formulas that contain a probiotic. For powder formulas, Gelmix can be mixed with warm water to thicken, then allowed to cool down before mixing in the powder formula.

Is Gelmix covered by insurance?

When thickening is deemed “medically necessary” some private insurance companies cover thickeners under HCPCS billing code B4100. Coverage under Medicaid/Medicare varies by state. Check with your private insurance carrier or your local state Medicaid/Medicare office for specific coverage regulations and restrictions. If you are denied coverage by medicaid, we have a patient assistance discount program to help reduce the cost for low income families.

How many teaspoons are in a serving of Gelmix?

A full serving of Gelmix is 2.4g, equivalent to 1 tsp. The scoop that comes with the jar is a half serving 1.2g scoop, equivalent to 1/2 tsp. Click here for an infographic on the Gelmix scoop and incremental household measures. 

Where is Gelmix manufactured?

Gelmix products are manufactured at a USDA organic certified GMP plant in South Florida, brought to you by Parapharma Tech, certified organic by QCS and certified kosher by Kosher Organics.

Where can I buy Gelmix?

Gelmix can be purchased online directly through our website and at Amazon Prime. There are a number of select retailers across the United States and Canada to purchase over the counter. There are also home health and DME suppliers of both products if your insurance provides coverage for thickeners.

Do I need a prescription?

No, our thickeners are classified as USDA organic food & dietary supplements and are sold over the counter.

Does Gelmix or Purathick have an NDC code or HCPCS code?

Our organic thickeners are food/dietary supplements and do not qualify for an NDC code. NDC codes are only provided for OTC and prescription drugs. Instead, our thickeners carry a HCPCS Code B4100 under Durable Medical Equipment (DME) billing.