Our approach to food-based tube feedings

What is a blenderized formula?

A liquefied or smoothly pureed food used instead of or as a supplement with, a commercial enteral formula for tube feedings. The food can be either commercially-prepared pediatric blended meals or homemade food-based tube feeding formula.

Why consider a blenderized product or recipe?

Increased:
Oral intake
Volume tolerance
Bowel regularity

Decreased:
Gagging/retching
Vomiting
Reflux
Constipation

Who is a good candidate?

1. Medically stable (including labs)
2. Gastrostomy tube (14F and above)
3. Bolus feeding schedule
4. >6 months of age for partial
5. >12 months of age for full
6. Motivation/compliance of caregiver
7. Transportation/food accessibility

What are the pros and cons of a blenderized food diet?

Pros:

• Increased sense of control over foods
• Ability to avoid multiple food allergies
• Fewer side effects (vomiting, bowel function)
• Family meals

Cons:

• Longer prep time
• Need to plan ahead (meal adequacy, travel)
• Higher risk of contamination
• Bits of food may obstruct feeding tube if not blenderized to thin liquid consistency

Try a shelf-stable premade product, or make your own

What to consider for the parent:

• Goals
• Time available
• Willingness

What to consider for the child:

• Sensitivity to change
• Allergies
• Foods consumed

Sample recipe: Holiday dinner

2 c. whole milk, or any milk substitute
1 c. turkey or chicken (w/o skin)
1 c. mashed potatoes or sweet potatoes
1 c. stuffing
1 c. cranberries
1 c. cooked vegetables (e.g. green beans)

• Add and mix turkey (or chicken) and 1 c. milk in blender. 
• Add the remaining ingredients and the rest of the milk.
• Puree until smooth.
• The blend should be pourable and easy to bolus feed.