Ensure Strawberry shakes are designed to provide nutritional support, offering a mix of protein, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals. The exact composition can vary slightly depending on the specific Ensure product line, such as Original, Plus, or High Protein, but the core ingredients are generally consistent.
Core Macronutrients in Ensure Strawberry
Ensure Strawberry provides essential macronutrients for energy and bodily functions.
Protein Sources
Ensure Strawberry typically includes milk protein concentrate and soy protein isolate. Some varieties may also contain calcium caseinate.
Carbohydrates and Sugars
The base is water, with corn maltodextrin, sugar (sucrose), and in some formulations, corn syrup, providing carbohydrates and sweetness.
Fats and Oils
A blend of vegetable oils, commonly canola and corn oil, contributes healthy fats.
Vitamins and Minerals
Ensure Strawberry is fortified with numerous vitamins and minerals for complete nutrition. These are often listed as being present in amounts less than 0.5%.
Key Vitamins
The shakes contain antioxidant vitamins like C and E, a range of B-vitamins for energy metabolism, Vitamin D for calcium absorption, and vitamins A and K.
Key Minerals
Electrolytes such as sodium, potassium, and chloride help with fluid balance. Calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus support bone health, while minerals like zinc, iron, selenium, and copper contribute to immune function and other processes.
Other Ingredients
Additional ingredients are used to enhance the taste, texture, and stability of Ensure Strawberry.
- Flavoring: Natural and artificial flavors provide the strawberry taste.
- Coloring: Red 3 is often used for the pink color, though some products may use natural alternatives.
- Sweeteners: Low-calorie sweeteners like acesulfame potassium and sucralose are frequently included alongside sugar.
- Stabilizers: Ingredients such as cellulose gel, carrageenan, and gellan gum help maintain a smooth consistency.
Comparison of Ensure Strawberry Formulations
The specific ingredients and nutritional values vary among different Ensure product lines. The table below shows key differences based on available ingredient information for the strawberry flavor.
| Ingredient Category | Ensure Original Strawberry | Ensure High Protein Strawberry | Ensure Complete Strawberry |
|---|---|---|---|
| Protein | 9g; Milk Protein Concentrate, Soy Protein Isolate | 16g; Milk Protein Concentrate, Soy Protein Isolate | 30g; Milk Protein Concentrate, Calcium Caseinate, Soy Protein Isolate |
| Sugar | 10g Total Sugars | 4g Total Sugars | 15g Total Sugars |
| Fiber | No added fiber | No added fiber | 4g; Soluble Corn Fiber, Short-chain Fructooligosaccharides |
| Calories | 220 calories | 160 calories | 350 calories |
| Key Sweeteners | Sugar, Sucralose | Sugar, Acesulfame Potassium, Sucralose | Sugar, Acesulfame Potassium, Sucralose |
Conclusion
Ensure Strawberry shakes contain a range of ingredients designed to offer nutritional support. Core ingredients include water, protein sources, carbohydrates, and fats, plus a blend of vitamins and minerals. Additives are included for flavor, color, and texture. While there are common ingredients, variations exist between Ensure product lines to cater to different dietary needs. Individuals with specific health concerns, such as diabetes, should consult a healthcare professional regarding the most suitable Ensure formulation or alternative products like Glucerna.
What are the ingredients in Ensure Strawberry: a summary
- Core Components: Key ingredients include water, milk and soy proteins, carbohydrates (like corn maltodextrin and sugar), and vegetable oils (canola and corn).
- Fortification: Products are fortified with numerous essential vitamins and minerals.
- Flavor/Color: Strawberry flavor comes from natural and artificial sources; color is often from Red 3.
- Texture: Stabilizers like cellulose gel and carrageenan maintain smoothness.
- Sweetness: Sugar and low-calorie sweeteners may be used.
- Product Variations: Ingredient lists and nutritional values differ across product lines.
- Dietary Notes: Contains milk and soy; unsuitable for galactosemia, but often suitable for lactose intolerance. Check labels.
- Comprehensive Formula: The extensive ingredient list provides balanced nutrition.
