What Are The Ingredients In Fresubin Protein Drink?

According to manufacturer Fresenius Kabi, standard Fresubin protein drinks are typically composed of water, milk protein, maltodextrin, and a blend of vegetable oils. A detailed breakdown of what are the ingredients in Fresubin protein drink reveals a mix of macronutrients and micronutrients designed for medical nutritional support.

Quick Summary

Fresubin protein drink formulations include primary components like milk protein, carbohydrates from maltodextrin and sucrose, and vegetable oils, fortified with a full spectrum of vitamins and minerals. The precise ingredient list varies depending on the specific product line and flavor.

Key Points

• Core Composition: Fresubin protein drinks are built on a base of water, protein, carbohydrates (maltodextrin, sucrose), and vegetable oils.

• Diverse Protein Sources: Most varieties use milk protein, while the Plant-Based drink uses soya proteins.

• Enriched with Micronutrients: Every Fresubin drink is fortified with a comprehensive blend of essential vitamins and minerals, including A, D, C, E, K, and B-vitamins, as well as minerals like calcium, iron, and zinc.

• Product-Specific Formulas: Ingredients differ significantly across product lines, such as the inclusion of fibre in Fresubin Fibre drinks or varying energy densities.

• Common Allergens: Many standard Fresubin products contain milk and soya, which are important considerations for those with allergies.

• Flavour and Texture Additives: Flavours are created using flavourings like cocoa powder or beetroot, while emulsifiers and stabilisers ensure a consistent texture.

Core Ingredients: The Foundation of Fresubin Drinks

At its core, a Fresubin protein drink is a balanced, nutritionally complete supplement designed for individuals with increased nutritional needs. While the exact composition varies between different product lines and flavours, several core ingredients form the basis of most Fresubin formulations. These are broadly categorised into macronutrients, which provide energy, and a wide array of micronutrients, including vitamins and minerals.

Protein Sources

The protein in standard Fresubin drinks is primarily derived from high-quality milk protein, which contains essential amino acids. However, Fresenius Kabi also offers plant-based options, such as the Fresubin PLANT-BASED Drink, which uses soya protein to provide its protein content, making it suitable for vegan diets. The concentration of protein also varies, with high-protein versions like Fresubin Protein Energy containing a higher percentage of energy from protein compared to standard or lower-protein options.

Carbohydrates and Energy

Carbohydrates are a major source of energy in Fresubin drinks, helping to manage energy levels in patients at risk of malnutrition. The main carbohydrate sources include maltodextrin and sucrose (sugar). Some products, like the Fresubin 2 kcal Drink, use glucose syrup as an additional carbohydrate source. In formulations with added fibre, components like wheat dextrin and inulin are also present, which contribute to carbohydrate content while providing fibre.

Fats and Emulsifiers

To provide a balanced energy source, Fresubin drinks incorporate a blend of vegetable oils. Common examples include high-oleic sunflower oil and rapeseed oil. These oils supply necessary fatty acids. Emulsifiers, such as soya lecithins (E471), are also used to ensure a consistent, smooth texture by preventing the oil and water-based ingredients from separating.

A Closer Look at Micronutrients

Fresubin drinks are fortified with a comprehensive blend of vitamins and minerals to meet or supplement daily nutritional needs, especially in cases of disease-related malnutrition.

Vitamins

• Vitamin A & Beta-carotene: Important for vision and immune function.
• Vitamin D: Crucial for bone health and mineral absorption.
• Vitamin E: Acts as an antioxidant, protecting cells from damage.
• Vitamin K: Necessary for blood clotting and bone metabolism.
• Vitamin C: A powerful antioxidant that supports immune health.
• B-Vitamins: Includes a full spectrum of B-vitamins (Thiamin, Riboflavin, Niacin, B6, Folic Acid, B12) that are essential for energy metabolism and overall cellular function.
• Biotin & Pantothenic Acid: Also part of the vitamin complex supporting metabolic processes.

Minerals and Trace Elements

• Macrominerals: Important minerals include calcium, phosphorus, potassium, and magnesium, which are vital for bone density, nerve function, and electrolyte balance.
• Trace Elements: Iron, zinc, copper, manganese, iodine, fluoride, chromium, molybdenum, and selenium are included to support various metabolic and physiological functions.

The Full Fresubin Ingredient Profile

Not all Fresubin products are created equal. The specific ingredients can vary based on the nutritional target, such as energy density, protein content, or the presence of fibre. This comparison table highlights some of the key differences.

Ingredient Category	Fresubin Protein Energy DRINK	Fresubin 2 kcal DRINK	Fresubin PLANT-BASED DRINK
Key Protein Source	Milk proteins	Milk proteins	Soya proteins
Energy Density	High-caloric (1.5 kcal/ml)	Very High-caloric (2.0 kcal/ml)	High-caloric (1.5 kcal/ml)
Key Carbohydrate	Maltodextrin, Sucrose	Glucose Syrup, Maltodextrin, Sucrose	Glucose Syrup, Sugar, Wheat Dextrin, Inulin
Fats	Sunflower Oil, Rapeseed Oil	Sunflower Oil, Rapeseed Oil	Rapeseed Oil, Sunflower Oil
Allergens	Milk, Soya	Milk, Soya	Soya, Wheat
Added Fibre	Generally Fibre-free*	Fibre-free	Contains fibre

*Note: Chocolate flavour contains traces of fibre from cocoa powder.

Beyond the Core: Flavour and Formulation

The flavour of a Fresubin drink is achieved through specific additives and extracts. For example, chocolate flavour includes fat-reduced cocoa powder, while tropical fruit flavour uses a different blend of flavourings. Beetroot powder is sometimes used for colouring in flavours like wild strawberry and fruits of the forest.

Stabilisers and thickeners are also integral to achieving the desired texture and shelf-stability. These include agents like carrageenan (E407) and cellulose. Additionally, various acidity regulators and mineral salts are used to ensure the product's chemical stability and nutritional integrity.

Potential Allergens and Dietary Needs

It is critical for consumers to be aware of the allergens present in Fresubin products, especially since they are used for special medical purposes. As many formulations contain milk protein and soya lecithin, individuals with milk or soya allergies must consult the ingredients list carefully and consider alternatives. The Fresubin Plant-Based Drink offers a solution for those who require a dairy-free option. Products like Fresubin 2 kcal Fibre Drink contain wheat, so this should be noted by individuals with wheat sensitivities. Patients with galactosaemia should avoid Fresubin products as they are not suitable. It is always best to read the label of the specific product being consumed.

Conclusion

In summary, the ingredients in Fresubin protein drink products form a complex and deliberate formula designed to provide complete and balanced nutrition for patients with specific dietary needs. The foundational components across different varieties are water, protein (primarily milk protein or soya protein), carbohydrates (like maltodextrin and sucrose), and vegetable oils. This is all supported by a wide array of vitamins and minerals. The precise combination of these ingredients, along with added flavourings and stabilisers, varies significantly between different product lines. Always check the specific product label to understand its exact composition and suitability for individual dietary requirements. Fresubin Protein Energy DRINK Product Info

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main protein source in standard Fresubin drinks?

The main protein source in standard Fresubin protein drinks is milk protein, which provides high-quality protein for patients with increased protein needs.

Does Fresubin protein drink contain milk and soya?

Yes, many standard Fresubin protein drinks contain both milk protein and soya lecithin. It is crucial for individuals with milk or soy allergies to check the product label carefully.

Is Fresubin protein drink gluten-free?

The majority of Fresubin protein drink products are gluten-free. Always check the specific product label to be certain, as some formulations with fibre may differ.

What are the main carbohydrate sources in Fresubin?

Fresubin drinks typically use maltodextrin and sucrose (sugar) as the primary carbohydrate sources to provide energy. Some products also include glucose syrup.

Are there any vegan or dairy-free Fresubin options?

Yes, Fresubin offers a Plant-Based Drink that uses soya proteins instead of milk protein and is certified vegan, providing a dairy-free alternative.

Why do the ingredients differ between Fresubin products?

The ingredients are tailored to meet different nutritional requirements. Factors like energy density, protein concentration, and the inclusion of fibre are adjusted for specific patient needs.

Can Fresubin be used as a sole source of nutrition?

Many Fresubin products are designed to be nutritionally complete and can serve as a sole source of nutrition under medical supervision. Always follow the advice of a healthcare professional.