How Many Scoops of Ensure Milk for a Standard Serving?

November 28, 2025 •

3 min read

According to the official instructions, a single serving of Ensure Original Powder is prepared with 6 level scoops of powder, mixed with 195 mL of cold water, yielding a 230 mL drink. Knowing how many scoops of Ensure milk to use is crucial for ensuring you get the full, balanced nutritional benefits intended by the manufacturer.

Quick Summary

A standard serving of Ensure Original powder requires 6 level scoops combined with 195 mL of water for a 230 mL drink. Serving sizes and mixing ratios vary by product and region, such as Ensure Plus or High Protein powder. Always follow the specific instructions on the product label for accurate preparation.

Key Points

Standard Serving: For a 230 mL serving of Ensure Original Powder, use 6 level scoops with 195 mL of cold water.
Product Variations: The number of scoops can differ between Ensure products, such as Original, Plus, or High Protein; always check the label.
Mixing Procedure: Add the powder gradually to the cold water and stir or shake well until completely dissolved for a smooth consistency.
Consumption and Storage: Drink the prepared Ensure promptly or refrigerate and consume within 24 hours. Store unopened powder in a cool, dry place.
Measurement Accuracy: Use the scoop included in the can to ensure accurate measurement and proper nutritional delivery.
Customization: While the standard recipe uses water, milk can be substituted to increase calories and protein, but this alters the nutritional profile.

For a standard 230 mL serving of Ensure Original Powder, the correct ratio is 6 level scoops mixed with 195 mL of cold water. The scoop is included inside the can for convenient and accurate measurement. Following these specific instructions ensures that you receive the intended balance of protein, vitamins, and minerals. Mixing properly is also key to avoiding clumps and achieving a smooth, consistent texture.

Proper Mixing Instructions for Ensure Powder

To get the best results from your Ensure powder, a consistent mixing technique is essential. Begin by pouring the recommended amount of cold water into a glass or shaker cup. The manufacturer specifies using cold water for optimal dissolution. Gradually add the correct number of level scoops of powder, stirring or shaking until the powder is fully dissolved. The entire process should only take a couple of minutes.

Step-by-Step Preparation Guide

Step 1: Gather your tools. You will need a glass or shaker bottle, cold water, and the Ensure powder with its enclosed scoop.
Step 2: Add water. Pour 195 mL (about 3/4 cup) of cold water into your container.
Step 3: Measure powder. Use the provided scoop to measure 6 level scoops of Ensure powder.
Step 4: Combine and mix. Add the powder to the water and stir vigorously or shake well until the powder is completely dissolved.
Step 5: Serve. Enjoy the drink immediately. If not consumed right away, cover it, refrigerate, and use within 24 hours.

Differences Between Ensure Products

It is important to note that the number of scoops can differ depending on the specific Ensure product you are using. For instance, Ensure High Protein Powder has different instructions than the Original version. Always consult the product label for precise mixing details, as the nutritional content and serving sizes vary significantly across the Ensure lineup.

Comparison Table: Ensure Product Mixing Ratios


Product	Serving Size	Powder Scoops	Liquid Volume	Notes
Ensure Original Powder	230 mL	6 level scoops	195 mL cold water	The standard mix, widely available in several flavors.
Ensure Plus Powder	231 mL	6 level scoops	190 mL cold water	Higher calorie density for weight gain or recovery.
Ensure High Protein Powder	Approx. 200 mL	4 scoops	190 mL cold water	Higher protein content, often designed for specific dietary needs.
Ensure Original Powder (US)	8 fl oz (236 mL)	1/2 cup (leveled)	3/4 cup cold water	US product measurements might differ from international versions.

Customizing and Storage

While the manufacturer's directions are for a standard 230 mL drink, some people prefer to adjust the consistency or add flavor. You can mix the powder with other ingredients, but this will alter the nutritional profile. For example, mixing with milk instead of water will increase the calorie, protein, and calcium content. The preparation method and storage recommendations are critical for maintaining safety and quality.

Storage Instructions

Unopened can: Store at room temperature in a cool, dry place.
Opened can: Once opened, use contents within three weeks. Keep the can covered and stored in a cool, dry place, but not refrigerated.
Prepared drink: Consume immediately or cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Discard any unused portion after 24 hours.

Why Following Instructions Matters

Using the correct number of scoops and liquid volume is important for several reasons. It ensures that the supplement provides the complete, balanced nutrition it was designed for. Improper ratios can affect the concentration of vitamins, minerals, and protein. This can be particularly significant for individuals relying on Ensure as a nutritional supplement to manage specific health conditions, such as recovery from illness or addressing malnutrition. The proper ratio also affects the palatability and smoothness of the drink, making it more pleasant to consume.

Conclusion

For a standard serving, you will need 6 level scoops of Ensure milk powder, mixed with 195 mL of cold water, to create a 230 mL drink. It is always best to check the specific instructions on your product's label, as different formulations like Ensure Plus or High Protein have varying requirements. By following the preparation guide and storage recommendations carefully, you can ensure you're getting the optimal nutritional benefits from every serving. For more detailed information, you can always refer to the official Abbott Nutrition resources, such as their FAQs or product-specific pages.

Frequently Asked Questions

For a standard 230 mL glass, you should use 6 level scoops of Ensure Original powder. This should be mixed with 195 mL of cold water.

Yes, a scoop is included in each can of Ensure powder. This ensures that you can accurately measure the powder according to the manufacturer's instructions for a single serving.

While the standard directions recommend mixing Ensure with water, you can use milk. This will increase the calorie, protein, and calcium content of the drink compared to the standard preparation.

For Ensure Plus powder, a standard serving is made with 6 scoops of powder mixed with 190 mL of water, which yields a 231 mL drink.

Once mixed, Ensure should be covered, refrigerated, and consumed within 24 hours. Any unused portion after 24 hours should be discarded.

Yes, different Ensure products have different mixing instructions. For example, Ensure High Protein powder requires 4 scoops for a standard serving, unlike the 6 scoops for the Original formula.

Using the correct number of scoops ensures you get the complete and balanced nutrition intended by the product. Deviating from the instructions can alter the nutritional profile and effectiveness of the supplement.