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Cow & Gate Carobel Instant 135g

Cow & Gate Carobel Instant 135g

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  • ✔️ Thickens baby feeds to reduce regurgitation and reflux episodes
  • ✔️ Contains locust bean gum, a natural plant-derived thickening agent
  • ✔️ Suitable for use from birth in term infants
  • ✔️ Compatible with formula and expressed breast milk feeds
  • ✔️ 135g tub provides multiple feeds at an affordable price

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What Is Carobel Infant Thickener and How Can It Help Your Baby?

 

If your baby brings up feeds regularly, you are not alone. Infant reflux — where stomach contents flow back up into the oesophagus — is extremely common in the first year of life. Carobel infant thickener is a feed thickener made by Cow & Gate, designed to help manage this regurgitation by making feeds heavier and less likely to travel back up. The 135g tub is a practical, easy-to-use option that many parents and healthcare professionals turn to when simple positioning changes are not enough. You can find it alongside other baby and toddler products at Cured Pharmacy.

Carobel Instant contains locust bean gum — a natural, plant-derived carbohydrate extracted from the seeds of the carob tree. It is gluten-free and suitable for use from birth, though medical guidance is always recommended before starting any feed thickener in a very young or preterm infant.

 

How Does Cow & Gate Carobel Work to Reduce Reflux?

 

The mechanism is straightforward. When Carobel powder is mixed into a milk feed or food, the locust bean gum absorbs liquid and increases the viscosity — in other words, it makes the feed thicker. A thicker feed sits more heavily in the stomach and is less easily pushed back up through the lower oesophageal sphincter. This can reduce the frequency and volume of regurgitation episodes.

  • Locust bean gum absorbs water and swells, increasing feed thickness
  • Thickened feed is less mobile in the stomach, reducing upward flow
  • The thickening effect develops within a few minutes of mixing
  • It does not alter the nutritional composition of the feed significantly

It is worth noting that Carobel does not reduce the amount of acid in the stomach — it simply makes it harder for feed to travel back up. If your baby has signs of significant discomfort or poor weight gain alongside reflux, always speak to your GP.

 

Who Is Cow & Gate Carobel Suitable For?

 

Carobel is intended for infants and young children who experience regurgitation or reflux. It can be used with both breast milk and formula feeds, and can also be mixed into solid foods as weaning progresses. That said, it is not appropriate for every baby, and a healthcare professional should always be consulted first — particularly for preterm infants or those with complex medical needs.

  • Term infants from birth experiencing frequent regurgitation
  • Babies on formula or expressed breast milk feeds
  • Young children transitioning to solid foods who still experience reflux
  • Infants where positional and feeding technique changes have not been sufficient

 

How Does Carobel Compare to Other Reflux Management Options?

 

Feature Cow & Gate Carobel Gaviscon Infant Sachets
Active ingredient Locust bean gum Sodium alginate / magnesium alginate
Mechanism Thickens feed Forms a raft in the stomach
Suitable from birth Yes (with medical guidance) Yes (with medical guidance)
Available OTC Yes Yes

 

How Should You Store Cow & Gate Carobel and Is It Clinically Appropriate?

 

Store Carobel in a cool, dry place below 25°C, away from direct sunlight. Once opened, use the tub within four weeks and always replace the lid securely after each use. Do not use after the expiry date printed on the base of the tub.

From a clinical standpoint, Carobel infant thickener is a well-established option for managing infant regurgitation. However, it is important to remember that reflux in babies is often self-limiting — most infants improve significantly by 12 months of age as they spend more time upright and their digestive system matures. Regular review with your GP or health visitor is recommended to assess whether continued use is still appropriate.

This product is a medicine. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist before using if you have an underlying medical condition or are taking other medicines.

Cow & Gate Carobel Instant 135g specifications
Treatment category Feed thickener / infant reflux management
Active ingredient Locust bean gum (carob bean flour)
Mechanism of action Increases viscosity of feeds to reduce regurgitation
Suitable for Infants and young children from birth (term infants)
Pack size 135g
UK classification General Sale / OTC
Preparation Powder for oral use (mixed into feed or food)
Route of administration Oral
Drug class Feed thickener

Specifications of Cow & Gate Carobel Instant 135g

 

What Is Cow & Gate Carobel Instant and What Is It Used For?

 

Cow & Gate Carobel Instant is a feed thickener containing locust bean gum as its active ingredient. It is used to manage regurgitation — the effortless bringing up of feeds — in infants and young children. Regurgitation is one of the most common concerns parents raise with health visitors and GPs in the first year of life. When a baby regularly brings up milk after feeds, it can be distressing for both the baby and the family, even when weight gain remains normal.

Carobel works by thickening the feed so it is less likely to travel back up the oesophagus. It is not a treatment for gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD) — a more serious condition involving acid damage — and should not replace medical assessment if your baby is showing signs of pain, poor weight gain, or respiratory symptoms alongside regurgitation.

 

What Do You Need to Know Before Using Cow & Gate Carobel?

 

Before using Carobel, it is important to consider whether it is appropriate for your baby. Always consult your GP, health visitor, or paediatrician before starting a feed thickener, particularly in very young or preterm infants.

Do not use Carobel if:

  • Your baby is preterm, unless specifically advised by a healthcare professional
  • Your baby has a known allergy or hypersensitivity to locust bean gum or any other ingredient
  • Your baby has a condition affecting swallowing (dysphagia) without specialist guidance
  • You are using it as a substitute for seeking medical advice about serious reflux symptoms

Warnings and precautions:

  • Monitor your baby for signs of constipation, which can occur with feed thickeners
  • Ensure the teat hole on the bottle is large enough to allow the thickened feed to flow
  • Do not add more powder than recommended — over-thickening can cause feeding difficulties
  • If symptoms worsen or do not improve, seek medical advice promptly

Known drug interactions:

  • No clinically significant drug interactions with locust bean gum have been established
  • If your baby is taking any prescribed medicines mixed into feeds, consult your pharmacist before adding Carobel

 

How Should You Use Cow & Gate Carobel Instant?

 

Always follow the instructions on the pack or the advice of your healthcare professional. The steps below are a general guide for bottle feeding.

  1. Prepare the feed as normal (formula or expressed breast milk) at the correct temperature
  2. Measure the correct number of level scoops of Carobel powder using the scoop provided
  3. Add the powder to the prepared feed in the bottle
  4. Replace the teat and lid, then shake or stir well until fully dissolved
  5. Allow the feed to stand for 2–3 minutes to thicken before offering to your baby
  6. Check the flow through the teat — you may need a faster-flow teat to allow the thickened feed through
  7. Feed your baby as normal and discard any unused feed after the feed is complete
Age Group Feed Volume Carobel Dose Frequency
Infants (birth onwards) 100ml 1–2 level scoops (as directed) With each feed
Older infants / toddlers Per feed volume As directed by healthcare professional With each feed or meal

If you are breastfeeding, Carobel can be mixed into expressed breast milk. Speak to your health visitor or midwife for specific guidance on quantities. You may also find it helpful to browse our indigestion and digestive health range for related products.

 

What Are the Possible Side Effects of Cow & Gate Carobel?

 

Like all products of this type, Carobel can cause side effects in some babies, though not all babies will experience them. If you notice any concerning changes in your baby's behaviour, feeding, or bowel habits, contact your GP or health visitor.

Common side effects:

  • Constipation — stools may become firmer or less frequent
  • Abdominal discomfort or wind
  • Changes in stool consistency or colour

Less common side effects:

  • Feeding difficulties if the feed becomes too thick
  • Reduced feed intake if the baby finds the thickened feed harder to take
  • Allergic reaction (rare) — signs include rash, swelling, or breathing difficulty; seek emergency help immediately if this occurs

 

How Should You Store Cow & Gate Carobel Instant?

 

  • Store below 25°C in a cool, dry place
  • Keep away from direct sunlight and moisture
  • Replace the lid securely after each use
  • Use within 4 weeks of opening the tub
  • Do not use after the expiry date printed on the base of the tub
  • Keep out of the reach and sight of children

For general digestive health support in older children and adults, you might also find our IBS and cramps collection useful.

Written and reviewed by our qualified team

Your safety and success are our highest priorities. Our medical team rigorously evaluates every product and piece of advice we provide, ensuring you receive only the most effective, science-backed solutions available.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I buy Cow & Gate Carobel Instant 135g online in the UK?

You can buy Cow & Gate Carobel Instant 135g directly from Cured Pharmacy, a UK GPhC-registered online pharmacy, for £5.69. It is available without a prescription and can be ordered for home delivery. It is also stocked in some pharmacies and supermarkets across the UK.

How does Carobel infant thickener work in the body?

Carobel contains locust bean gum, which absorbs liquid and swells to increase the thickness of a feed. The thickened feed is heavier and less likely to travel back up the oesophagus, which helps reduce regurgitation episodes. It does not reduce stomach acid — it simply makes the feed more resistant to reflux.

How do I use Cow & Gate Carobel step by step?

Prepare your baby's feed as normal, then add the recommended number of level scoops of Carobel powder to the bottle. Shake or stir well, allow 2–3 minutes for the feed to thicken, then check the teat flow before feeding. Always follow the pack instructions or your healthcare professional's specific guidance.

What is the correct dose of Carobel for my baby?

The standard starting dose is typically one to two level scoops per 100ml of feed, but this can vary depending on your baby's age, weight, and the severity of regurgitation. Always follow the instructions on the pack or the advice of your GP, health visitor, or paediatrician. Never add more powder than recommended, as over-thickening can cause feeding difficulties.

What is the best time to give Carobel to my baby?

Carobel is added to each feed, so it is used at every feeding time rather than at a specific time of day. Consistency is important — using it with every feed helps maintain a steady reduction in regurgitation. Speak to your health visitor if you are unsure whether to use it at every feed or only at certain times.

Can Carobel cause constipation in babies?

Yes, constipation is one of the most commonly reported side effects of feed thickeners including Carobel. If your baby's stools become harder, less frequent, or your baby seems uncomfortable, contact your GP or health visitor before continuing use. They may suggest adjusting the dose or switching to an alternative approach.

How do I manage side effects of Cow & Gate Carobel?

If your baby develops constipation, your GP or health visitor may advise reducing the amount of Carobel used per feed or offering additional water between feeds (in formula-fed babies). If your baby shows signs of an allergic reaction — such as a rash, swelling, or breathing difficulty — stop use immediately and seek emergency medical help. Always report any concerns to a healthcare professional promptly.

Is Carobel suitable for newborns and preterm babies?

Carobel can be used from birth in term infants, but it should only be used in preterm or very young babies under direct medical supervision. Preterm infants have more immature digestive systems, and feed thickeners may not be appropriate without specialist assessment. Always consult your neonatal team or paediatrician before using any feed thickener in a preterm baby.

Who is eligible to use Cow & Gate Carobel?

Carobel is intended for infants and young children who experience regurgitation or reflux, and who are being fed by bottle or with solid foods. It is suitable for use with formula and expressed breast milk. It is not intended for adults and should not be used without healthcare professional guidance in preterm infants or babies with complex medical conditions. You can find it in our baby and toddler range at Cured Pharmacy.

What happens if I add too much Carobel to a feed?

Adding too much Carobel can make the feed excessively thick, which may make it difficult for your baby to feed through the teat and could reduce their overall feed intake. Over-thickening also increases the risk of constipation and digestive discomfort. Always measure carefully using the scoop provided and follow the recommended dose on the pack.

What are the alternatives to Cow & Gate Carobel for infant reflux?

Alternatives include Gaviscon Infant sachets, which work by forming a raft in the stomach rather than thickening the feed, and anti-reflux formula milks that are pre-thickened. In some cases, GPs may prescribe medications such as omeprazole for more significant reflux disease. Your GP or health visitor is best placed to advise which option suits your baby's specific situation.

Can I use Carobel with breastfeeding?

Carobel can be mixed into expressed breast milk and given by bottle, but it cannot be used directly during breastfeeding at the breast. If you are breastfeeding, speak to your midwife or health visitor about the most appropriate way to manage your baby's reflux, as there may be feeding technique adjustments that help before introducing a thickener.

How long can you use Carobel for a baby?

The duration of use should be guided by your GP or health visitor. Most babies with simple regurgitation improve naturally as they grow, become more upright, and begin eating solid foods — typically by 12 months of age. Regular reviews are recommended to assess whether continued use of a feed thickener is still necessary. Do not continue use indefinitely without professional review.

Does Carobel affect the nutritional value of my baby's feed?

Carobel adds a small amount of carbohydrate (from locust bean gum) to the feed but does not significantly alter the overall nutritional composition. It does not replace any nutrients in the feed. If you have concerns about your baby's nutrition or growth, speak to your health visitor or paediatrician for a full assessment.

What does the latest research say about feed thickeners for infant reflux?

Current NHS and NICE guidance acknowledges that feed thickeners can reduce the visible frequency of regurgitation in infants, though they do not treat the underlying cause of reflux. Research suggests they are most useful for managing uncomplicated regurgitation rather than true gastro-oesophageal reflux disease. For digestive health support in older children, you may also find our IBS and cramps collection relevant.

How Should You Use Cow & Gate Carobel Instant?

Using Carobel correctly is important to ensure your baby gets the full benefit and to avoid feeding difficulties. Always read the instructions on the pack before use, and follow any specific guidance given by your GP, health visitor, or paediatrician. The steps below apply to bottle feeding with formula or expressed breast milk.

If you are mixing Carobel into solid foods for an older infant, stir the powder into the food thoroughly and allow it to stand briefly before serving.

What Is the Correct Dose of Cow & Gate Carobel?

The dose of Carobel depends on your baby's age and the volume of feed being given. The table below provides a general guide, but always defer to the instructions on the pack or the specific advice of your healthcare professional. Never exceed the recommended dose.

If you are unsure about the correct dose for your baby, speak to your health visitor or pharmacist before use.

When Is the Best Time to Use Cow & Gate Carobel?

Carobel is added to each individual feed rather than being taken at a fixed time of day. This means you use it consistently at every feeding time to maintain a steady reduction in regurgitation. There is no single "best" time — the key is consistency across all feeds throughout the day and night. If your baby only regurgitates at certain feeds, speak to your health visitor about whether selective use is appropriate.

How Long Can You Use Cow & Gate Carobel For?

The length of time you use Carobel should be guided by your GP or health visitor. Infant regurgitation is often self-limiting — most babies improve significantly by 12 months of age as they spend more time sitting upright and begin eating solid foods. It is important to have regular reviews with your healthcare professional to assess whether continued use is still necessary. Do not continue using Carobel indefinitely without professional review, and do not stop suddenly without seeking advice if your baby's symptoms are significant.

Do not exceed the recommended dose. If in doubt, speak to your pharmacist.

What Are the Most Common Side Effects of Cow & Gate Carobel?

The most frequently reported side effect of Carobel is constipation. Because locust bean gum is a dietary fibre that absorbs water, it can make stools firmer and less frequent in some babies. You may notice your baby straining more than usual or producing harder stools. If this happens, contact your GP or health visitor before continuing use — they may advise adjusting the dose or trying an alternative approach.

  • Constipation (harder, less frequent stools)
  • Abdominal discomfort or bloating
  • Increased wind or flatulence
  • Changes in stool colour or consistency

What Are the Less Common Side Effects of Cow & Gate Carobel?

Some babies may experience difficulties with feeding itself if the feed becomes too thick. This can happen if too much powder is added, making it hard for the baby to draw the feed through the teat. In these cases, the baby may become frustrated at the breast or bottle, take less feed than usual, or tire quickly during feeding.

  • Feeding difficulties due to over-thickening
  • Reduced feed intake if the baby finds the thickened feed harder to manage
  • Fussiness or refusal at the bottle

What Are the Serious Side Effects of Cow & Gate Carobel?

Serious side effects are rare but can occur. Allergic reactions to locust bean gum have been reported, though they are uncommon. Signs of an allergic reaction include a skin rash, swelling of the face or lips, difficulty breathing, or sudden changes in your baby's behaviour or colour. If you suspect an allergic reaction, stop using Carobel immediately and call 999 or go to your nearest A&E department without delay.

What Should You Do If Your Baby Experiences Side Effects?

For mild side effects such as constipation or wind, contact your GP or health visitor for advice before making any changes to the dose. Do not simply stop using Carobel without guidance if your baby's reflux symptoms are significant. For serious reactions such as signs of allergy or breathing difficulty, seek emergency medical help immediately. Always report any unexpected changes in your baby's health to a healthcare professional promptly.

Can Cow & Gate Carobel Interact With Other Medicines?

No clinically significant drug interactions with locust bean gum have been established in published literature. However, if your baby is receiving any prescribed medicines that are mixed into feeds — such as certain vitamin supplements or prescribed thickeners — speak to your pharmacist before adding Carobel to the same feed. This is to ensure the medicines are not affected by the thickening process and that your baby receives the correct dose of each product.

If you are concerned about any side effects, contact your pharmacist or GP immediately.

Patient Information Leaflet

Important - Before taking any medication, it is always important to read the Patient Information Leaflet (PIL)

Written and reviewed by our qualified team

GPhC Number: 2233073
Tarun Kumar

Reviewed by:

Tarun Kumar

Superintendent/ Clinical Lead

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Content last updated: 31 Mar 2025

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