Introduction:
We are strong advocates of feeding real, wholesome food to individuals with feeding tubes to provide the best and most well tolerated nutrition possible. While traditional tube feeding formulas have long been used and are necessary for some people due to their medical needs, many other individuals may benefit from feeding blended real, whole food ingredients through the tube. There is also a growing interest in real food options that mimic a more natural and varied diet.
We are strong proponents of using a homemade blenderized diet, but understand that it’s not possible for some families to accomplish this. Whether you are a busy parent, struggling with the balance of cooking and implementing a healthy diet. Or you have travel plans coming up and need options that are more convenient. Maybe you just want to have something on hand for those times when you're tired. Or maybe you need insurance to cover food and you are looking for the best option available. This is where packaged options can provide a good solution.
In this article, we will explore four popular pre-packaged real food options for feeding tubes: Real Food Blends, Nourish, Compleat, and Whole Story Meals. When it comes to feeding through a G-tube, finding the right packaged food options can be a game-changer for individuals in need. Each option has its own unique features, pros, and cons, and it's important to understand the facts before considering them for your loved one. Let's dive in!
Why should you consider feeding real food instead of formula?
We know that a diet based on real, whole foods that is high in nutrient-dense fruits and vegetables, can improve many health symptoms and conditions. However, many individuals that receive tube feeding are fed formula, which does not include many of these health promoting foods. When you look at the ingredients of formula versus the ingredients of these real food-based packaged options, there is a drastic difference.
1. Real Food Blends:
Real Food Blends stands out with their unique blends of real food ingredients, providing a taste of home-cooked meals. Pros of Real Food Blends include their commitment to using whole foods, minimal processing, and no added preservatives. They offer a wide range of flavor options, catering to different dietary needs and preferences. Many users appreciate the variety these blends bring to their G-tube feeding experience. However, it's worth noting that the texture of Real Food Blends can sometimes be thicker than other options and may require additional liquid to make feedings easier.
Real Food Blends: Specifics
Insurance: Many private and public insurance plans cover Real Food Blends meals.
Hang time: After opening, please enjoy Real Food Blends meals within a two hour timeframe, or refrigerate any unused portion before that.
How to administer: All packaged food options are ready to use. It may be given via bolus as the easiest way to administer. If you prefer to give via gravity feed or pump administration, it’s recommended to add 2-4 ounces of liquid to reduce viscosity and thin it out. After opening the packages, it’s important to use them within 24 hours.
Website: https://www.realfoodblends.com/
Real Food Blends: Variety & Ingredients:
Real Food Blends: Turkey, sweet potatoes and peaches
Ingredients: Sweet Potatoes, Peaches, Cooked Turkey, Water, Olive Oil, Green Beans
Nutrition Facts: Each 9.4-ounce pouch yields an 8-fluid ounce serving (237ml) delivering 14 grams protein, 19 grams fat and 23 grams of carbohydrate in 320 calories.
Real Food Blends: Orange chicken, carrots and brown rice
Ingredients: Orange Juice, Cooked Chicken, Carrots, Brown Rice, Grapeseed oil, Water, Ginger, Roasted Sunflower Seeds
Nutrition Facts: Each 9.4-ounce pouch yields an 8-fluid ounce serving (237ml) delivering 14 grams protein, 20 grams fat and 28 grams of carbohydrate in 340 calories.
Real Food Blends: Salmon, oats and squash
Ingredients: Pomegranate Juice, Water, Squash Puree, Salmon, Rolled Oats, Flaxseed Oil
The Salmon is a mix of Keta, Pink and Coho Salmon and is wild from Alaska, Canada, and the Pacific Northwest.
Nutrition Facts: Each 9.4-ounce pouch yields an 8-fluid ounce serving (237ml) delivering 12 grams protein, 20 grams fat and 25 grams of carbohydrate in 330 calories
Real Food Blends: Quinoa, kale and hemp
Ingredients: Grape Juice, Water, Kale, Hemp Powder, Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Quinoa, Cinnamon
Nutrition Facts: Each 9.4-ounce pouch yields an 8-fluid ounce serving (237ml) delivering 12 grams protein, 19 grams fat and 32 grams of carbohydrate in 340 calories
Real Food Blends: Beef, potatoes and spinach
Ingredients: Pineapple Juice, Ground Beef, Potatoes, Spinach, Grapeseed Oil
The ground beef in the Beef, Potatoes and Spinach meal is 100% grass-fed.
Nutrition Facts: Each 9.4-ounce pouch yields an 8-fluid ounce serving (237ml) delivering 11 grams protein, 18 grams fat and 30 grams of carbohydrate in 330 calories.
Real Food Blends: Eggs, apples and oats
Ingredients: Apples, Whole Eggs, Water, Zucchini, Flaxseed Oil, Rolled Oats (certified gluten free oats)
Each 9.4-ounce pouch yields an 8-fluid ounce serving (237ml) delivering 8 grams protein, 20 grams fat and 26 grams of carbohydrate in 320 calories.
Real Food Blends (MINI): Prunes, pears and pumpkin
Ingredients: Prune puree, pear puree, pumpkin puree, water and flaxseed oil.
Nutrition Facts: Each 4-ounce pouch contains 1g protein, 1.5g fat and 24g of carbohydrate in 100 calories.
Real Food Blends Pros & Cons:
Real Food Blends Pros:
Real food option in an easy to administer, packaged form
Provides variety with different ingredients that mimic a more natural and realistic way of eating
Highly concentrated blends that allow for higher calories with limited volume due to their higher fat content
May be covered under insurance (for many)
Real Food Blends Cons:
Does not use organic ingredients
Is not nutritionally complete and often requires additional nutrients to promote adequate balance. Nutrients that may need to be added include a multivitamin (with adequate calcium) and additional sodium.
Manufactured in a facility that processes: eggs, fish, gluten, milk, shellfish, soy, sulphites, tree nuts, and wheat
2. Nourish:
First of all, I love the name! What a great word to stand by, to nourish the body. That’s what our food is supposed to do, no matter how it’s delivered to the body. Nourish offers a variety of different tube feeding options. Nourish, developed by a registered dietitian, focuses on providing balanced nutrition in a convenient format. One of the major pros of Nourish is their emphasis on meeting specific dietary requirements, such as low sugar or gluten-free options, making it suitable for individuals with dietary restrictions. Nourish also offers versatility, with options for both bolus and continuous feeding methods. However, some users have noted that the texture can be slightly gritty, which may require additional water flushes to avoid tube blockages.
Nourish: Specifics
While they do have many adult options, I’m going to focus on the pediatric formulas.
Insurance coverage: all formulas can be covered under a majority of private and public health insurance plans, except for Keto Sustain
Hang Time: An independent third party microbial assessment shows that there is no microbial growth on a 12 hour hang time at ambient room temperatures. Once opened, the formula can be refrigerated in a sealed container and used within 48 hours.
Shelf Life: A 2 year shelf life indicates that there is no microbial spoilage and no significant loss in nutritional value in unopened pouches stored at ambient room temperatures.
How to administer: The easiest way to administer is via syringe bolus feed. This packaged food option is thinner than real food blends and can be administered via a pump. They do acknowledge that infinity pumps tends to work better with blenderized formulas than Joey pumps. It does have a better viscosity at room temperature and becomes slightly more difficult to push when cold. Nourish has been cleared to work with tubes that are 6 French or larger. Water may be added. If adding water or any liquid, it must be reblended with the product to emulsify in order to prevent separation.
Nourish: Variety & Ingredients
Nourish: Pediatric Formula
Ingredients: filtered water, organic garbanzo beans, organic green peas, organic whole grain brown rice, organic carrots, organic extra virgin olive oil, organic sprouted quinoa, organic pea protein, organic sweet potato, organic broccoli, vitamin blend [Calcium Citrate, Sodium Chloride, Potassium Chloride, Potassium Phosphate, Choline Bitartrate, Magnesium Glycinate, Mixed Tocopherols(E), Potassium Citrate, Zinc Gluconate, Potassium Iodide, Sodium Selenite, Cholecalciferol(D3), Niacinamide(B3), Calcium D-Pantothenate(B5), Biotin, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride(B6), Riboflavin(B2), Chromium Picolinate, Methylcobalamin(B12)], organic kale, organic acerola powder, organic flax oil, organic turmeric, organic ginger.
Nutrition Facts: 12-ounce pouch yields a 12-fluid ounce serving (355ml) delivering 14 grams protein, 17 grams fat and 50 grams of carbohydrate in 400 calories.
Nourish Peptides: Pediatric Formula
Organic, whole food, plant-based peptide formula. Complete peptide protein with organic coconut MCT oil to support enhanced digestion and maximum nourishment. May also be given orally.
Ingredients: Filtered water, organic garbanzo beans, organic green peas, organic whole grain brown rice, organic carrots, organic extra virgin olive oil, organic coconut MCT oil, organic hydrolyzed pea protein, organic sprouted quinoa, organic flax oil, vitamin blend [Calcium Citrate, Sodium Chloride, Potassium Chloride, Potassium Phosphate, Choline Bitartrate, Magnesium Glycinate, Mixed Tocopherols(E), Zinc Gluconate, Potassium Iodide, Cholecalciferol(D3), Sodium Selenite, Calcium D-Pantothenate(B5), Niacinamide(B3), Biotin, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride(B6), Riboflavin(B2), Methylcobalamin(B12), Chromium Picolinate] organic sweet potato, organic acacia fiber, organic broccoli, organic kale, organic acerola powder, organic turmeric, organic ginger
Nutrition Facts: 12-ounce pouch yields a 12-fluid ounce serving (355ml) delivering 17 grams protein, 34 grams fat and 41 grams of carbohydrate in 520 calories.
Nourish Peptide Berry Medley: Pediatric Formula
Organic, whole food, plant-based peptide formula packed with the Antioxidant Power of Berries. 2 servings* of fruits and vegetables with 20g of complete protein. May also be given orally.
Ingredients: filtered water, organic blueberries, organic green peas, organic pumpkin, organic whole grain brown rice, organic blackberries, organic cranberries, organic flax oil, organic hydrolyzed pea protein, organic extra virgin olive oil, organic coconut MCT oil, organic sprouted quinoa, organic broccoli, organic kale, organic pumpkin seed protein, organic apple cider vinegar, vitamin blend, [Calcium Citrate, Potassium Citrate, Choline Bitartrate, Potassium Phosphate, Mixed Tocopherols(E), Sodium Selenite, Potassium Iodide, Cholecalciferol(D3), Niacinamide(B3), Calcium D-Pantothenate(B5), Biotin, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride(B6), 5-Methyltetrahydrofolic Acid, Riboflavin(B2), Thiamine Mononitrate, Methylcobalamin(B12), Chromium Picolinate], organic acerola powder, organic cinnamon, sea salt, organic stevia
Nutrition Facts: 12-ounce pouch yields a 12-fluid ounce serving (340-355ml) delivering 20 grams protein, 34 grams fat and 40 grams of carbohydrate in 520 calories.
Note: They also have a ketogenic meal replacement option that is indicated for oral use only.
Nourish Pros & Cons
Nourish Pros:
Does not contain any of the following: added sugar, a high glycemic index, casein, corn syrup solids, genetically modified ingredients, soy, omega 6-rich PUFA oils, chemicals
Contains whole food, plant-based ingredients (vegetables and herbs) that are high in phytonutrients and anti-inflammatory effects
Contains a low omega 6 to omega 3 ratio 2:1 and also contains alpha linoleic acid, (a precursor to DHA and EPA), which are important to provide omega 3 fatty acids and regulate inflammation
Contains fermentable/functional fiber to improve the microbiome and produce short chain fatty acids
Low allergenicity: Free from dairy, tree nuts, gluten, soy, corn
Packaged in a BPA-Free pouch and are certified Organic
Provides a nutritionally complete option
Nourish Cons:
Does not provide a large variety of options
May contain ingredients that are not tolerated by everyone
3. Compleat Pediatric
Compleat Pediatric, produced by Nestlé Health Science, is a popular choice among healthcare providers and families alike. Many families use their products, but may not be familiar with their real-food options. While they do offer formulas with added veggie powders, the options we will discuss below are their entirely whole food based products. These products are nutritionally complete and designed specifically for pediatric patients.
Compleat: Specifics
InsuranceHang time
How to administer
Website: https://www.nestlehealthscience.us/brands/compleat/compleat-pediatric
Compleat: Variety & Ingredients
Compleat Pediatric Organic Blends: Chick
Compleat Pediatric: Organic Blends Plant-Based Blend
Compleat Pros & Cons
Compleat Pros:
Balanced nutrition: Compleat is formulated to provide a balanced macronutrient profile, ensuring adequate intake of proteins, carbohydrates, and fats.
Convenient and ready-to-use: Compleat comes in pre-packaged containers, making it a convenient option for individuals who prefer a hassle-free approach to tube feeding.
Contains fiber: Fiber is an important component of a healthy diet, and Compleat includes soluble fiber to support gastrointestinal health.
Compleat Cons:
Limited variety: While Compleat aims to provide balanced nutrition, the range of available flavors and ingredient combinations may be more limited compared to other options, potentially leading to taste fatigue over time.
4. Kate Farms: Pediatric Blended Meals
Kate Farms pediatric blended meals is a newer product for the company. They were previously well known for their formula products (in many different varieties and concentrations). Their blended meals are composed of organic, plant-derived ingredients, including whole foods, pea protein, and essential vitamins and minerals, formulated to aid in the healthy growth and development of children aged 1-13.
Kate Farms: Specifics
Prior to use, turn upside down and shake well
For tube feeding, twist off cap and attach spout to the tube or extension set
Once opened, keep refrigerated and use within 24 hours
Store in a dry place • Do not microwave • Protect from heating or freezing
Kate Farms: Variety & ingredients
Kate Farms: Squash & Carrot
Ingredients: Purified Water, Buckwheat Flour† , Butternut Squash† , Carrot†, Purple Sweet Potato† , High Linoleic Sunflower Oil† , Pea Protein†, Apple†, Beet†, Contains 1.5% or Less of: Flaxseed Oil†, Medium Chain Triglycerides (MCT from Coconut)†, Rosemary Extract†, Vitamins and Minerals: (Tricalcium Phosphate, Dipotassium Phosphate, Choline Bitartrate, Calcium Carbonate, Dimagnesium Phosphate, Potassium Chloride, Sodium Ascorbate, Sodium Chloride, Beta Carotene, Calcium Pantothenate, Cholecalciferol [Vitamin D3], DL-Alpha-Tocopheryl Acetate, Ferric Pyrophosphate, Vitamin A Palmitate, Biotin, Chromium Picolinate, Copper Sulfate, Cyanocobalamin [Vitamin B12], Folic Acid, Manganese Sulfate, Niacinamide, Phylloquinone, Potassium Iodide, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Riboflavin, Sodium Molybdate, Sodium Selenite, Thiamine Hydrochloride, Zinc Oxide), Inositol, L-Cysteine, L-Carnitine, L-Leucine, L-Lysine Hydrochloride, L-Threonine, L-Tryptophan, Taurine. † Organic
Nutrition Facts: 9g Protein, 250 Calories (1 kcal per ml), 28g total carbohydrates, 3g fiber, 5g Total Sugars, 11g Total Fat, 160mg sodium
Kate Farms: Banana & Blue
Ingredients: Purified Water, Banana† , Oat Flour† , Blueberry† , Zucchini† , Pea Protein† , High Linoleic Sun ower Oil† , Contains 1.5% or Less of: Flaxseed Oil† , Medium Chain Triglycerides (MCT from Coconut)† , Rosemary Extract† , Vitamins and Minerals (Tricalcium Phosphate, Dipotassium Phosphate, Choline Bitartrate, Calcium Carbonate, Dimagnesium Phosphate, Potassium Chloride, Sodium Ascorbate, Sodium Chloride, Beta Carotene, Calcium Pantothenate, Cholecalciferol [Vitamin D3], DL-Alpha-Tocopheryl Acetate, Ferric Pyrophosphate, Vitamin A Palmitate, Biotin, Chromium Picolinate, Copper Sulfate, Cyanocobalamin [Vitamin B12], Folic Acid, Manganese Sulfate, Niacinamide, Phylloquinone, Potassium Iodide, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Ribo avin, Sodium Molybdate, Sodium Selenite, Thiamine Hydrochloride, Zinc Oxide), Inositol, L-Cysteine, L-Carnitine, L-Leucine, L-Lysine Hydrochloride, L-Threonine, L-Tryptophan, Taurine. † Organic
Nutrition Facts: 9g Protein, 250 Calories (1 kcal per ml), 28g total carbohydrates, 4g fiber, 11g Total Sugars, 11g Total Fat, 160mg sodium
Kate Farms: Mango & Straw
Ingredients: Purified Water, Mango† , Strawberry† , Oat Flour† , Zucchini† , Pea Protein† , High Linoleic Sunflower Oil† , Contains 1.5% or Less of: Flaxseed Oil† , Medium Chain Triglycerides (MCT from Coconut)† , Rosemary Extract† , Vitamins and Minerals (Tricalcium Phosphate, Dipotassium Phosphate, Choline Bitartrate, Calcium Carbonate, Dimagnesium Phosphate, Potassium Chloride, Sodium Ascorbate, Sodium Chloride, Beta Carotene, Calcium Pantothenate, Cholecalciferol [Vitamin D3], DL-Alpha-Tocopheryl Acetate, Ferric Pyrophosphate, Vitamin A Palmitate, Biotin, Chromium Picolinate, Copper Sulfate, Cyanocobalamin [Vitamin B12], Folic Acid, Manganese Sulfate, Niacinamide, Phylloquinone, Potassium Iodide, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Riboflavin, Sodium Molybdate, Sodium Selenite, Thiamine Hydrochloride, Zinc Oxide), Inositol, L-Cysteine, L-Carnitine, L-Leucine, L-Lysine Hydrochloride, L-Threonine, L-Tryptophan, Taurine. † Organic
Nutrition Facts: 9g Protein, 250 Calories (1 kcal per ml), 28g total carbohydrates, 4g fiber, 9g Total Sugars, 11g Total Fat, 160mg sodium
Note: Kate Farms has other "formula" products that they offer, but are not fully classified as a blenderized diet.
Kate Farms Pros & Cons
Kate Farms Pros:
Made without common allergens – including milk, eggs, sh, shell sh, tree nuts, peanuts, wheat, soybeans, or sesame.
Provides complete nutrition with added calcium and sodium (plus 27 other vitamins and minerals)
Compatible with commonly used ENFit™ tube feeding devices, streamlining preparation and minimizing mess.
Flows smoothly through tubes with little need for manipulation, thinning, or dilution.
Offered in 3 different flavors .
USDA Organic • Non-GMO Project Verified • Kosher • Gluten free
Kate Farms Cons:
Contains a lower calorie count compared to other packaged options.
May contain ingredients that are not tolerated by everyone.
5. Whole Story Meals
Conclusion:
Choosing the right packaged G-tube food can greatly enhance the feeding experience and ensure individuals receive the necessary nutrition. Real Food Blends, Nourish, Whole Story Meals, and Compleat Pediatric all have their unique strengths and considerations. It's essential to consult with healthcare professionals, including registered dietitians and gastroenterologists, to determine the most suitable option based on individual needs, preferences, and dietary restrictions.
Choose wisely and make your G-tube feeding path less hectic.
When it comes to real food options for feeding tubes, Nourish, Compleat, and Whole Story Meals offer distinct features and benefits. It's important to consider the individual's specific needs, physiological needs, and dietary restrictions when choosing the most suitable option. Consulting with a healthcare professional, such as a registered dietitian or physician, is crucial to ensure that the chosen real food option aligns with the nutritional requirements of the individual.
Remember, every person's journey with tube feeding is unique, and finding the right balance between nutrition, taste, and convenience is key. By exploring these real food options, you can provide a more natural and enjoyable feeding experience for your loved one.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Consult with a healthcare professional before making any changes to your feeding tube regimen.
Pros:
Complete meal options: Whole Story Meals provide a comprehensive meal in a single package, offering a balanced combination of proteins, carbohydrates, fats, and a variety of nutrients.
Convenience and variety: Whole Story Meals come in different flavors and meal options, allowing for a varied and convenient tube feeding experience.
Allergen-friendly options available: Whole Story Meals offers allergen-friendly options, such as gluten-free and dairy-free choices, catering to individuals with specific dietary restrictions.
Cons:
Cost: Whole Story Meals may be more expensive compared to traditional tube feeding formulas, so cost considerations should be taken into account.
Availability: Depending on your location, Whole Story Meals may not be readily available, which could limit access to this option.
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