Basics of Blenderized Tube Feeds: A Primer for Pediatric Primary Care Clinicians

Blenderized tube feeding (BTF) is defined as the use of blended foods and liquids given directly via the feeding tube. This form of tube feeding lost popularity with the introduction of commercial enteral formulas in the 1970s; however, society's recent focus on more natural foods has led to a reemerged interest in blenderized feeds. BTF is particularly popular among the pediatric population for a variety of reasons. Many patients and families choose BTF because of its perceived health benefits, intolerance to commercial feeding formulas, or psychosocial reasons. Despite its increasing use, the current literature on the prevalence, safety and outcome of BTF is limited. In this review, we discuss the potential benefits and drawbacks of blenderized tube feeds. We also review clinical application pearls for pediatric primary care clinicians. It is important for these clinicians to have a basic understanding of blenderized formulas in order to support families that are interested in this reemerging food practice.