What are the ingredients in TwoCal?

January 5, 2026 •

2 min read

TwoCal, a high-calorie nutritional formula from Abbott Nutrition, is commonly prescribed for patients who require increased protein and calorie intake or are on fluid restrictions. The exact ingredient list can vary slightly depending on the specific product formulation (e.g., TwoCal HN, TwoCal Bolus) and region, but the core components provide a dense mix of macronutrients, vitamins, and minerals.

Quick Summary

A breakdown of TwoCal's composition, including its primary sources of protein, carbohydrates, and fats, along with its comprehensive vitamin and mineral profile. It also notes the presence of additional functional ingredients like prebiotics and clarifies its allergen information.

Key Points

Core Macronutrients: TwoCal contains a mix of protein (sodium and calcium caseinates), carbohydrates (corn syrup solids, maltodextrin, sucrose), and fats (high oleic safflower, canola, soy, and MCT oils).
Micronutrient Fortification: The formula is fortified with over 28 essential vitamins and minerals, providing complete nutrition for individuals who use it as a sole source.
Gut Health Support: It includes fructooligosaccharides (FOS), a prebiotic fiber that promotes the growth of beneficial bacteria in the colon.
Calorically Dense: With 2 calories per milliliter, TwoCal is designed to meet the high energy and protein needs of stressed patients or those on low-volume feedings.
Allergen Information: TwoCal contains milk and soy ingredients but is generally gluten-free and suitable for lactose intolerance.
Not for IV Use: The formula is for oral or tube feeding only and is not meant for intravenous use.

Core Macronutrients in TwoCal

TwoCal is primarily composed of water and offers a balanced mix of protein, carbohydrates, and fats to provide a high caloric density.

Protein Sources

The main protein sources are caseinates from milk, including sodium and calcium caseinate. Casein is known for its slow digestion, providing sustained amino acid release.

Common protein ingredients:

Water
Sodium caseinate
Calcium caseinate
Milk protein concentrate (in some formulations)

Carbohydrate Sources

The carbohydrate blend delivers concentrated energy through both simple and complex sources for immediate and lasting effects. Corn-based ingredients are the primary components.

Common carbohydrate ingredients:

Corn syrup solids
Corn maltodextrin
Sugar (sucrose)

Fat Sources

TwoCal's fat blend is designed for high caloric density, featuring a mix of vegetable oils and Medium Chain Triglycerides (MCTs). MCTs are easily absorbed for quick energy.

Common fat ingredients:

High oleic safflower oil
Canola oil
Soy oil
Medium Chain Triglycerides (MCTs) from modified coconut and/or palm kernel oils
Soy lecithin (emulsifier)

Vitamins, Minerals, and Other Additives

To function as a complete nutritional source, TwoCal is fortified with a wide range of vitamins, minerals, and other beneficial compounds.

Comprehensive Vitamin Profile

The formula includes all essential fat-soluble (A, D3, E, K1) and water-soluble (C, B vitamins, Folic Acid, Biotin, Pantothenic Acid) vitamins.

Essential Minerals and Trace Elements

TwoCal contains key minerals and trace elements like calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, iron, zinc, manganese, copper, iodine, selenium, chromium, and molybdenum.

Functional and Supplemental Ingredients

TwoCal includes Short-Chain Fructooligosaccharides (scFOS), which are prebiotics supporting gut health. It also contains Taurine, L-Carnitine, natural and artificial flavors, and soy lecithin as an emulsifier.

Comparing TwoCal Formulations

Ingredient lists and ratios can differ slightly between specific TwoCal products and regional versions, such as TwoCal HN. Always check the product label for the most accurate details.


Ingredient Category	TwoCal Core Ingredients (Typical)	Example Formulation (e.g., TwoCal HN) Variations
Protein Sources	Sodium and Calcium Caseinates	Milk Protein Concentrate might be used in some formulations
Carbohydrate Sources	Corn Syrup Solids, Corn Maltodextrin, Sucrose	Different ratios or inclusion of Hydrolysed Corn Starch depending on region
Fat Sources	High Oleic Safflower Oil, MCTs, Canola Oil, Soy Oil	Specific combinations of oils may differ slightly, like adding soy oil
Vitamins & Minerals	28+ essential vitamins and minerals	Quantities may vary by serving size and region
Other	FOS, Taurine, L-Carnitine, Soy Lecithin	Minor differences in flavors or emulsifiers

Allergen and Compatibility Information

TwoCal contains milk and soy ingredients but is typically gluten-free and suitable for lactose intolerance. It is not for intravenous use or individuals with galactosemia. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting or changing nutritional support.

Conclusion

TwoCal is formulated to provide a high-calorie, high-protein, and micronutrient-rich nutritional option for those needing increased intake or fluid restriction. Its blend of casein proteins, digestible carbohydrates, and fats including MCTs, along with prebiotics like scFOS, supports efficient and comprehensive nutrition. Understanding what are the ingredients in TwoCal is essential for healthcare providers and patients managing dietary needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

The primary protein sources in TwoCal are high-quality sodium and calcium caseinates, which are milk-derived proteins.

Yes, TwoCal is a gluten-free formula, making it suitable for individuals with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.

While TwoCal contains milk-derived caseinates, it is considered suitable for individuals with lactose intolerance. It has a low lactose content.

The fat blend in TwoCal typically includes a mix of high oleic safflower oil, canola oil, soy oil, and Medium Chain Triglycerides (MCTs), which provide a dense source of calories.

Fructooligosaccharides, or FOS, are prebiotic fibers included in TwoCal to stimulate the growth of beneficial bacteria in the colon and support digestive health.

Yes, TwoCal is formulated for both oral consumption and tube feeding, and it is suitable as either a supplemental or sole source of nutrition under medical supervision.

Yes, there are different formulations, such as TwoCal HN, and regional variations that may have slightly different ingredient profiles or ratios. It is always best to check the specific product label.