Objective To assess the efficacy of ready-to-use therapeutic food (RUTF), centrally produced
RUTF (RUTF-C) or locally prepared RUTF (RUTF-L) for home-based management of
uncomplicated severe acute malnutrition (SAM) compared with micronutrient-enriched
(augmented) energy-dense home-prepared foods (A-HPF, the comparison group). Methods
In an individually randomised multicentre trial, we enrolled 906 children aged 6–59 months
with uncomplicated SAM. The children enrolled were randomised to receive RUTF-C, RUTF …

Method The study was conducted among low-income households in three diverse
geographical settings in India; Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu and Delhi. Screening using mid-
upper-arm circumference (MUAC) was conducted at household level. Children aged 6-59
months with MUAC< 130mm were referred to clinic for weight-for-height z score (WHZ)
assessment. Children with WHZ<− 3 SD or oedema of feet or both were identified as SAM.