Understanding Hang Time for Enteral Nutrition
Hang time refers to the maximum amount of time an enteral formula or feeding solution can safely remain at room temperature after its container has been opened. For individuals receiving nutrition via a feeding tube, adhering to these time limits is crucial for preventing the growth of harmful bacteria and reducing the risk of foodborne illness. The specific hang time depends on the type of formula—whether it's a ready-to-hang closed system, a powdered formula that requires mixing, or, in this case, a blenderized product like Real Food Blends.
The Official 2-Hour Hang Time for Real Food Blends
For all meals in the Real Food Blends lineup, the recommended hang time is 2 hours once the pouch has been opened. This time limit is not arbitrary; it aligns with the American Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition (ASPEN) recommendations for homemade blenderized tube feeding. Because Real Food Blends are made from 100% real, whole food ingredients without added synthetic preservatives, they are susceptible to bacterial growth in the same way regular food is when left out at room temperature. This strict 2-hour limit ensures that the product remains safe for consumption during the feeding process.
Proper Handling and Storage for Optimal Safety
Beyond the initial hang time, proper storage and handling are essential for maintaining the safety of Real Food Blends meals. The manufacturer provides clear instructions to guide users.
Before Opening the Pouch
- Shelf-stable convenience: Unopened pouches of Real Food Blends are shelf-stable and do not require refrigeration.
- Check the expiration: Always check the 'use by' date on the back of the pouch before opening.
After Opening the Pouch
- Immediate use: After opening, the pouch contents should be used within the 2-hour hang time.
- Refrigerate unused portions: If the entire pouch is not used within 2 hours, any remaining portion can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours. To do this, seal the pouch or transfer the contents to an airtight container before refrigerating.
- Discard unused contents: It is critical to discard any unused portion after 24 hours of refrigeration to prevent bacterial overgrowth.
Best Practices for Administering Real Food Blends
Proper administration techniques further minimize contamination risk and enhance the feeding experience.
- Warming the blend: While not required, some individuals prefer warming the meal slightly for better comfort and tolerance. Use a safe method like placing the pouch in a bowl of warm water. Never use a microwave, which can create hot spots and destroy nutrients.
- Mixing before feeding: As a real food product, some separation is normal. Always stir or shake the pouch contents thoroughly before feeding to ensure a consistent mix of nutrients.
- Use appropriate equipment: Real Food Blends can be delivered via bolus, pump, or gravity feeding, typically with a 12 Fr G-tube or larger. Consider adding additional liquid, such as water, for pump or gravity administration to prevent clogging.
- Flush the line: Flush the feeding tube with water before and after each feeding to maintain patency and prevent bacterial accumulation.
Comparison: Real Food Blends vs. Traditional Enteral Formulas
| Feature | Real Food Blends (Blenderized) | Traditional Enteral Formula (e.g., Standard Liquid) |
|---|---|---|
| Ingredients | 100% real, whole food ingredients like fruits, vegetables, grains, and meats. | Processed ingredients, often with added vitamins and minerals. |
| Preservatives | No synthetic preservatives. | Often contains preservatives to extend hang time and shelf life. |
| Hang Time | 2 hours once opened. | Varies widely, but typically longer (e.g., 8–24 hours) for ready-to-hang formulas due to preservatives. |
| Nutritional Completeness | Not nutritionally complete on their own; require supplementation. | Often nutritionally complete as a standalone source. |
| Preparation | Ready-to-feed from a shelf-stable pouch; minimal manipulation needed. | Can be ready-to-use (RTH) or require mixing if powdered. |
| Contamination Risk | Higher risk if hang time and handling protocols are not strictly followed. | Lower risk due to preservatives and closed systems, but still present. |
Conclusion
The 2-hour hang time for Real Food Blends is a non-negotiable food safety rule that every user must follow. This limit is in place because the product is made from natural, real food ingredients without synthetic preservatives, mirroring the safe handling requirements of a homemade blenderized diet. By understanding and consistently following the recommended hang time, proper storage procedures, and best administration practices, individuals on enteral nutrition can confidently and safely incorporate Real Food Blends into their dietary regimen, ensuring they receive wholesome nutrition without compromising their health.
For more information on the product, you can visit the Real Food Blends FAQ page.
