Understanding the Fortisip Range
Fortisip is a brand of oral nutritional supplements produced by Nutricia, designed for the dietary management of disease-related malnutrition. These ready-to-drink shakes and other formats are used by patients who cannot meet their nutritional needs through regular food alone. The composition, including volume, energy density, and nutrient levels, differs significantly between products. Factors such as patient fluid intake capacity, energy requirements, and specific dietary needs determine which Fortisip product is most suitable. The most common formats are the standard 200ml milkshake-style bottle and the compact 125ml versions, each serving distinct purposes.
Fortisip product comparison: What's in each bottle?
To provide clarity on the variety, here is a comparison of the nutritional content and volume for some of the most common Fortisip products. It is important to always check the specific product packaging for exact figures, as formulations can vary by region and flavour.
| Feature | Standard Fortisip Bottle | Fortisip Compact | Fortisip Compact Protein | Fortisip 2kcal |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Volume | 200 ml | 125 ml | 125 ml | 200 ml |
| Energy (kcal) | 300 kcal | 300 kcal | 300 kcal | 400 kcal |
| Energy Density | 1.5 kcal/ml | 2.4 kcal/ml | 2.4 kcal/ml | 2.0 kcal/ml |
| Protein | 12 g | 12 g | 18 g | 20 g |
| Protein (% of total energy) | 16% | ~16% (based on energy density) | 24% | 20% |
| Fat | 11.6 g | ~11.6 g (based on energy density) | 11.8 g | 17.2 g |
| Fibre | 0 g (variable, check packaging) | 0 g | 0 g | 0 g |
Standard Fortisip Bottle
The standard Fortisip milkshake-style bottle is the most widely recognised product in the range. It contains 200ml of a high-energy, nutritionally complete supplement. This makes it a balanced option for general nutritional support.
- Energy and Protein: Each 200ml bottle delivers a robust 300 calories and 12 grams of protein, making it effective for combating weight loss and supporting muscle mass.
- Nutritionally Complete: Beyond just protein and calories, the standard Fortisip bottle provides a full spectrum of vitamins, minerals, and trace elements, ensuring comprehensive nutritional support.
- Flavours: A wide variety of flavours are available to suit different tastes, including vanilla, chocolate, strawberry, and banana.
Fortisip Compact formats
For patients with fluid restrictions or those with a low appetite who struggle to consume larger volumes, the compact products are an ideal solution. These are typically available in 125ml bottles but pack the same or more nutritional value.
Fortisip Compact
This version delivers the same 300kcal and 12g of protein as the standard 200ml bottle, but in a more concentrated 125ml volume. This high energy density (2.4kcal/ml) makes it easier to meet nutritional targets without feeling overly full.
Fortisip Compact Protein
Designed for patients with higher protein needs, such as those recovering from surgery or with chronic illnesses, this 125ml bottle contains 18g of protein alongside the 300kcal energy count. This makes it a potent and efficient source of protein in a small, easy-to-consume serving.
Fortisip 2kcal
Fortisip 2kcal is another powerful option, specifically formulated for patients who need an even higher energy intake. It comes in a 200ml bottle but offers a significantly denser nutritional profile compared to the standard Fortisip.
- High Energy and Protein: Each 200ml serving provides 400kcal and an impressive 20g of protein, addressing very high nutritional requirements.
- Vitamin D Boost: Fortisip 2kcal contains elevated levels of Vitamin D, beneficial for vulnerable patient groups with limited sun exposure.
Other products in the Fortisip family
Nutricia offers several other variations to cater to specific needs or flavour preferences:
- Fortisip Multi Fibre: A 200ml milkshake-style supplement containing fibre to support normal bowel function.
- Fortijuce: A high-energy, fat-free, juice-style supplement for those who dislike milk-based drinks or require a low-fat diet.
- Fortisip Yogurt Style: A nutritionally complete, high-energy drinking yogurt available in 200ml bottles.
- Forticreme Complete: A high-energy, pudding-style dessert for those who prefer a different texture.
Who are the different Fortisip products for?
Choosing the right Fortisip product depends on the patient's individual needs, which should always be discussed with a healthcare professional.
- Standard Fortisip: Suitable for general dietary management of malnutrition and involuntary weight loss, especially for patients who can tolerate a larger fluid volume.
- Compact Versions: Ideal for patients with poor appetite, early satiety (feeling full quickly), or fluid restrictions. The compact format ensures essential nutrition is delivered in a smaller volume.
- High-Protein Formulations: Best for individuals with significantly increased protein needs, such as during post-operative recovery or for managing conditions like chronic illness and muscle mass loss.
- Specialised Products: Alternatives like Fortijuce or Fortisip Yogurt cater to flavour fatigue or specific dietary needs, such as disliking milky drinks.
Important considerations and medical supervision
It is critical to remember that Fortisip products are Foods for Special Medical Purposes and must be used under medical supervision. A doctor or dietitian can determine the correct type, frequency, and duration of use based on a patient's health status and nutritional requirements. For instance, Fortisip is generally not suitable for children under 3 years old or patients with galactosaemia.
Nutricia, the manufacturer of the Fortisip range, provides detailed information for healthcare professionals and patients on their official websites, ensuring safe and effective usage. You can find more specific product information and nutritional data by visiting Nutricia's online resources, such as their UK site at https://www.nutricia.co.uk/hcp/products.
Conclusion: The variable quantity in Fortisip
The question of how much is in a Fortisip depends entirely on the specific product within the range. While the standard milkshake is a 200ml bottle containing 300kcal and 12g protein, compact versions deliver the same energy in a smaller 125ml volume, and the 2kcal product packs even more energy and protein into a 200ml serving. Understanding the subtle but important differences in volume and nutritional content is crucial for selecting the right supplement to meet individual dietary needs under medical guidance. By consulting product information and healthcare advice, patients and caregivers can make informed choices to support nutritional recovery and management effectively.
