What is comparable to Jevity? Exploring Nutritional Formula Alternatives

November 14, 2025 •

4 min read

Over one million people in the United States receive enteral tube feeding annually, and for many, finding the right nutritional formula is crucial. Patients often seek alternatives for various reasons, making the question 'what is comparable to jevity?' a common one. Understanding the composition and specific benefits of different formulas is key to a successful nutritional regimen.

Quick Summary

This comparison evaluates nutritional formulas similar to Jevity from Abbott Nutrition. It examines alternatives like Nutren and Osmolite based on caloric density, protein, and fiber content, as well as specialized options for managing conditions such as diabetes or renal disease.

Key Points

Nutren and Osmolite: These lines from Nestlé and Abbott, respectively, are the most direct competitors to standard Jevity products, often offering comparable fiber and caloric density.
Caloric Density is Key: When comparing Jevity 1.0, 1.2, or 1.5 Cal, matching the alternative's calories per milliliter is the first step to maintaining a patient's energy intake.
Specialized Conditions Require Special Formulas: For patients with diabetes or renal disease, formulas like Glucerna or Nepro are better alternatives than a standard Jevity equivalent.
Fiber Content Varies: While many alternatives contain fiber, the amount and type can differ, impacting gastrointestinal tolerance and bowel management.
GI Sensitivity Needs Peptide-Based Options: Patients with malabsorption or impaired gastrointestinal function may benefit from a peptide-based formula like Vital or Peptamen over a polymeric one.
Consult a Professional: Due to individual nutritional needs and medical histories, all enteral formula changes should be discussed with a healthcare provider.

Introduction to Jevity and the Need for Alternatives

Jevity is a well-established, fiber-fortified enteral feeding formula manufactured by Abbott Nutrition. It is a polymeric formula, meaning it contains intact proteins, fats, and carbohydrates, designed for individuals who have functioning digestive systems but cannot meet their nutritional needs through food alone. Jevity is available in several versions with different caloric and protein concentrations, such as Jevity 1.0 Cal, Jevity 1.2 Cal, and Jevity 1.5 Cal. However, factors like product availability, cost, or specific patient intolerances often lead healthcare providers and caregivers to explore comparable alternatives. Identifying a suitable substitute requires a careful review of nutritional composition, fiber type, and overall caloric density.

Factors to Consider When Selecting an Alternative

When searching for a formula comparable to Jevity, several key factors must be evaluated to ensure the patient's nutritional needs are met. These include:

Caloric Density: Match the calories per milliliter (Cal/mL) to ensure the patient receives the same energy volume. For example, replacing Jevity 1.2 Cal with another 1.2 Cal/mL formula maintains the energy intake.
Protein Content and Source: High protein formulas, like Jevity 1.2 Cal, are designed to aid in lean body tissue maintenance and repair. If the patient has elevated protein needs, a high-protein alternative is necessary.
Fiber Content: Jevity is known for its fiber blend, which helps manage bowel function. A comparable formula should contain a similar amount and type of fiber to prevent gastrointestinal issues like diarrhea or constipation.
Macronutrient Profile: Look at the percentage of calories from carbohydrates, protein, and fat. This can vary significantly between standard formulas and those for specific conditions, such as diabetes.
Patient-Specific Needs: Consider any underlying health conditions. Patients with diabetes, renal disease, or malabsorption require specialized formulas, even if a standard option seems comparable.

Leading Alternatives to Jevity by Product Type

Major enteral formula manufacturers like Nestlé Nutrition offer several products that serve as excellent alternatives to various Jevity formulas. Matching by caloric density and patient indication is the most effective approach.

Alternatives for Standard Formulas (1.0-1.2 Cal/mL)

For patients on Jevity 1.0 Cal or Jevity 1.2 Cal, several alternatives offer comparable nutrient profiles with the addition of fiber. Nestlé's Nutren line is a common substitute, and the Texas Health and Human Services provides formulary substitution guidance.

Nutren 1.0 with Fiber: A standard isotonic liquid with fiber, Nutren 1.0 with Fiber is often used to replace Jevity 1.0 Cal.
Fibersource HN: For higher protein and calorie needs, Fibersource HN is a direct comparable to Jevity 1.2 Cal, with a similar caloric density and fiber content.
Osmolite: Abbott's own Osmolite line includes standard, fiber-free options like Osmolite 1 Cal, but can also be used depending on fiber needs. Osmolite 1.2 Cal is a fiber-free option with comparable caloric density to Jevity 1.2 Cal.

Alternatives for High Calorie and High Protein Needs (1.5 Cal/mL)

When higher caloric density is required, as with Jevity 1.5 Cal, the alternatives also increase in concentration.

Isosource 1.5 cal: A high-calorie, high-nitrogen liquid with fiber, Isosource 1.5 cal is nutritionally equivalent to Jevity 1.5 Cal, though some differences in fiber composition exist.
Nutren 1.5: This is a high-calorie formula from Nestlé that serves as a solid alternative to Jevity 1.5 Cal.

Specialized Nutritional Formulas as Alternatives

For patients with specific metabolic or gastrointestinal needs, switching from a standard formula like Jevity to a specialized one may be necessary.

Glucerna: Specifically formulated for patients with abnormal glucose tolerance or diabetes, Glucerna offers a different carbohydrate profile to help manage blood sugar levels. Versions like Glucerna 1.2 Cal are comparable in calories to Jevity 1.2 Cal.
Nepro: Patients with kidney disease, particularly those on dialysis, may benefit from Nepro, which has a higher calorie density and controlled electrolyte levels.
Vital AF 1.2 Cal: This is a semi-elemental, peptide-based formula designed for patients with malabsorption or impaired GI function. It is often better tolerated by individuals with gastrointestinal issues compared to standard polymeric formulas.

Comparison Table of Jevity and Alternatives


Formula (Manufacturer)	Cal/mL	Protein (g/L)	Fiber (g/L)	Key Indication	Best Comparable to Jevity
Jevity 1.0 Cal (Abbott)	1.0	40	14.4	Standard nutrition, fiber-fortified	N/A
Nutren 1.0 w/Fiber (Nestlé)	1.0	70	14	Standard nutrition, fiber-fortified	Jevity 1.0 Cal
Jevity 1.2 Cal (Abbott)	1.2	55.5	18	High protein, fiber-fortified	N/A
Fibersource HN (Nestlé)	1.2	54	22	High protein, fiber-fortified	Jevity 1.2 Cal
Jevity 1.5 Cal (Abbott)	1.5	63.8	22	High calorie/protein, fiber-fortified	N/A
Isosource 1.5 Cal (Nestlé)	1.5	68	8	High calorie/protein, fiber-fortified	Jevity 1.5 Cal
Glucerna 1.2 Cal (Abbott)	1.2	60	14	Diabetes/Glucose Intolerance	Jevity 1.2 Cal (for calorie, not indication)
Vital AF 1.2 Cal (Abbott)	1.2	75	N/A	Malabsorption/GI Intolerance	Jevity 1.2 Cal (for calorie, not indication)

Note: This table is a simplified guide. Consult a healthcare professional for specific product recommendations.

Conclusion: Making an Informed Choice

Determining what is comparable to Jevity involves more than just finding another complete nutritional formula. It requires matching key characteristics like caloric density, protein level, and fiber content, while also considering any specific patient conditions. While Nutren, Osmolite, and Isosource offer close matches for general nutritional support, specialized options like Glucerna and Vital are essential for patients with specific health challenges. The ultimate decision should always be guided by a thorough evaluation from a qualified healthcare provider or dietitian to ensure the formula aligns with the patient's individual medical needs and tolerance. Consulting comparison charts from reputable health organizations can be a valuable resource during this process.

Frequently Asked Questions

Jevity is an Abbott product, while Nutren is from Nestlé. Both offer similar lines of complete nutritional formulas, but their precise macronutrient profiles, fiber blends, and ingredient sourcing can differ slightly depending on the specific product.

Glucerna is specifically formulated for individuals with diabetes or glucose intolerance, featuring a modified carbohydrate blend to help manage blood sugar. While it may have a similar caloric density to some Jevity products, it is not a direct substitute for standard nutritional needs. The change should be made under medical supervision.

For comparable high-protein formulas, Fibersource HN (Nestlé) or Promote with Fiber are suitable alternatives to Jevity 1.2 Cal or 1.5 Cal. The best choice depends on specific protein targets and tolerance.

Yes, Nepro (Abbott) is a specialized formula designed for patients with kidney disease. It has a high caloric density and a controlled electrolyte profile (especially potassium and phosphorus) that is more suitable for renal diets than standard formulas like Jevity.

Polymeric formulas like Jevity are for individuals with normal digestive function. Peptide-based or semi-elemental formulas, such as Vital or Peptamen, have broken-down proteins and are better suited for patients with malabsorption, digestion issues, or impaired gastrointestinal function.

Jevity 1.2 Cal provides 1.2 Cal/mL, whereas Isosource 1.5 Cal provides a higher 1.5 Cal/mL. While both are high-protein, fiber-fortified options, their caloric density is different, and they may use different fiber blends, which can affect GI tolerance.

Yes, the type of fiber is important. Jevity uses a blend of soluble and insoluble fiber, which promotes healthy bowel function. Some alternatives may have different fiber compositions, potentially affecting a patient's gastrointestinal regularity.