Yes, there are now dedicated vegan alternatives to Fortisip
For those adhering to a vegan lifestyle or with dairy allergies, the landscape of oral nutritional supplements (ONS) has evolved significantly. While standard Fortisip relies on cow's milk proteins, manufacturers have responded to the increasing demand for plant-based options. The most direct vegan alternative is Nutricia's own Fortisip PlantBased, a nutritionally complete, high-energy supplement developed specifically to meet the needs of plant-based patients.
Nutricia's Fortisip PlantBased: The direct swap
Recognizing the growing market, Nutricia developed Fortisip PlantBased as a direct response to the need for a vegan version of their flagship product. This ready-to-drink formula is formulated with a combination of pea and soy protein isolates to provide a balanced macro-nutrient profile. In addition to protein, each 200ml bottle delivers 300kcal of energy, making it a high-energy option for managing disease-related malnutrition. The supplement has also been clinically studied, with evidence showing high patient compliance and effectiveness in increasing daily energy and protein intake. It is available in different flavors, catering to patient preference.
Other commercially available vegan alternatives
Beyond Nutricia's own offering, a variety of other ready-to-drink and powdered vegan ONS products are available. These provide consumers and healthcare professionals with a broader range of choices based on factors like flavor, protein source, and calorie density. Some prominent examples include:
- Ensure Plant-Based Protein Shake: Abbott, the maker of Ensure, now offers a plant-based version featuring protein from a blend of fava bean and pea. This option provides 20g of plant-based protein and 180 calories per shake, and is widely available over-the-counter in many regions.
- Fresubin Plant-Based Drink: Offered by Fresenius Kabi, this is another ready-to-drink, nutritionally complete supplement. It is gluten and lactose-free, and formulated with soy protein.
- AYMES Actagain 1.5 Plant Powered: This soy-free option from AYMES uses faba bean protein, making it suitable for those with soy sensitivities. It is also nutritionally complete.
- OWYN Plant-Based Protein Powder: For those who prefer powders, OWYN offers a protein blend with added greens. While not specifically a medical ONS, it can be used to create high-calorie, high-protein smoothies under a doctor's supervision.
DIY high-protein vegan shakes
For individuals with a blender and access to a variety of ingredients, creating a homemade high-protein, high-calorie vegan shake is a customizable option. This allows for precise control over ingredients, macronutrients, and flavor. Recipes often incorporate a mix of ingredients for maximum nutritional value:
- Liquid Base: Plant milks such as soy milk (for added protein), oat milk, or coconut milk.
- Protein Source: High-quality vegan protein powders (pea, rice, hemp, soy), silken tofu, or cashew pieces.
- Energy Boosters: Oats, ripe or frozen bananas, avocado, or nut butters like almond or peanut butter.
- Fibre and Nutrients: Ground flaxseed, chia seeds, or a handful of fresh spinach or kale.
Comparison of vegan Fortisip alternatives
| Product | Format | Protein Source(s) | Energy (per serving) | Key Feature(s) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fortisip PlantBased | Ready-to-drink | Pea & Soy Protein | ~300 kcal (200ml) | Clinically backed, direct brand alternative |
| Ensure Plant-Based | Ready-to-drink | Fava Bean & Pea Protein | 180 kcal (325ml) | Widely available, popular brand recognition |
| Fresubin Plant-Based | Ready-to-drink | Soy Protein | ~300 kcal (200ml) | Gluten and lactose-free, nutritionally complete |
| AYMES Actagain 1.5 | Ready-to-drink | Faba Bean Protein | ~300 kcal (200ml) | Soy-free option for sensitivities |
| Homemade Shake | Powder/DIY blend | Customizable (e.g., pea, hemp) | Highly variable | Flexible, customizable nutrition and ingredients |
Considerations for selecting a vegan supplement
Choosing the right vegan alternative involves more than just selecting a plant-based label. A patient's nutritional requirements, dietary restrictions, and personal preferences must all be taken into account. For any medically-supervised supplement, a consultation with a healthcare professional, such as a dietitian, is essential. They can provide guidance on the correct dosage and ensure the product is suitable for specific health conditions, such as galactosaemia or other metabolic disorders. Patients must always follow medical advice when using these products for special medical purposes.
The evolution of nutritional support
The development of nutritionally complete vegan supplements like Fortisip PlantBased signifies a major step forward in inclusive medical nutrition. These products address the needs of patients with specific dietary requirements, from those following a vegan diet to individuals with milk protein allergies or lactose intolerance. The availability of such options ensures that a wider range of patients can receive necessary nutritional support without compromising their lifestyle or medical needs.
Conclusion
Yes, robust and clinically supported vegan alternatives to Fortisip are now available. For a direct replacement, Nutricia's Fortisip PlantBased offers a high-energy, ready-to-drink solution using pea and soy protein. Other reputable brands like Ensure and Fresubin also provide plant-based oral nutritional supplements for those managing malnutrition. For those with specific preferences, customizable high-calorie shakes can be made at home using vegan protein powders and nutrient-dense ingredients. The best approach involves discussing your options with a healthcare professional to ensure the product meets your unique medical and nutritional needs. Read more on plant-based oral nutritional supplements from Plant Based Health Professionals UK.
