The use of blended diets with enteral feeding tubes

The use of blended diets with enteral feeding tubes

A blended diet refers to any food or drink other than water, expressed breast milk, infant formula or commercial enteral formula being given via an enteral feeding tube. In recent years, the blending of everyday foods with liquid to be given through the enteral feeding tube, is becoming increasingly popular in practice. 

Considerations of starting a blended diet

Starting a blended diet is a shared decision. The aim of the decision is that the person and their healthcare professional work together to reach a joint decision and agree a plan of care.

• change of tube
• buying ancillaries
• understanding a healthy well balanced diet and age appropriate portion sizes
• understanding of food safety hygiene
• blended diets being administered in settings other than the home

Risks and benefits

The risks include:

• a tube blockage due to viscosity or thickness of some foods
• the topic being under researched
• nutritional deficiency

Physiological benefits include:

• reduction in vomiting, reflux and bowel habits
• brighter skin, glossy hair and growth of finger nails
• improved immunity
• improved social and emotional impact

Recommended practice

• A balloon retained gastrostomy tube is preferable.
• Use a mature gastrostomy stoma
• The diameter of the tube should be ≥ 12Fr. 
• It is possible to provide blended diet via the gastric port of a gastro-jejunal tube. 

Storage of blended food

Any blend which is to be used more than 2 hours after preparation should be stored and transported safely.

• Store in an airtight container.
• Blends can be stored in the refrigerator (below 5°C) for up to 24 to 48 hours.
• Blends can be stored in the freezer (below -18°C) for 1 to 3 months. Defrost blends prior to use.
• Blends should only be kept at room temperature for a maximum of 2 hours.