Blended Tube Feeding - Optimum Intake

For many people who rely on enteral nutrition (tube feeding), food can sometimes feel clinical, routine, or removed from the social connections of everyday meals. But there’s another option that’s becoming increasingly popular and supported by dietitians: Blended Tube Feeding (BTF).

At Optimum Intake Dietitians, we are proud to support participants and families who want to explore this approach, helping them do so safely, confidently, and in a way that enhances quality of life.

What Is Blended Tube Feeding (BTF)?

Blended Tube Feeding is a way of delivering blended foods and liquids directly through a feeding tube. Instead of (or alongside) commercial formulas, families may choose to use:

Homemade blends prepared from whole foods
A combination of commercial formula and homemade blends
Commercially made BTF products designed for tube feeding

This flexibility allows tube feeding to feel less medicalised and more connected to family life.

Why Families Choose Blended Tube Feeds

Research and lived experience suggest many potential benefits of BTF, including:

Better feeding tolerance – decreasing symptoms like reflux, gagging, or constipation (by 76–100%)
Improved skin, hair, and immune function
Sharing family meals – enjoying the same food prepared for the rest of the household
Joining in on celebrations – birthdays, holidays, or cultural traditions feel more inclusive
A greater sense of normalcy and emotional wellbeing
Managing allergies and intolerances more effectively

For many participants, blended tube feeding offers more than just nutrition—it restores joy, connection, and dignity to mealtimes.

Who Is Blended Tube Feeding Suitable For?

BTF may be appropriate for you or your loved one if the following apply:

Over 12 months of age
Not immunocompromised
Has a gastrostomy feeding tube larger than 14 French
Has a mature, well-healed stoma
Has the support of a dietitian and medical team
Has the time, resources, or support workers available to safely prepare blends

Because safety is so important, blended feeding should always be done with guidance from an Accredited Practising Dietitian.

How Optimum Intake Dietitians Can Help

Our team of dietitians has dedicated time and training to specialise in blended tube feeding support. We work closely with families and support networks to:

Assess whether BTF is appropriate for you or your loved one
Provide recipes, preparation guidelines, and food safety advice
Create individualised nutrition plans that balance health needs with lifestyle preferences
Support the safe introduction of blended feeds alongside (or instead of) commercial formulas
Troubleshoot tolerance issues and ensure growth, health, and energy needs are met

With expert support, blended tube feeding can become a safe, nourishing, and positive part of daily life.

Next Steps: How to Access Support

If you’re considering blended tube feeding for yourself or someone you care for, the best next step is to connect with a dietitian experienced in this area.

At Optimum Intake, we provide NDIS dietitian support and individualised care plans for families exploring BTF.

Call us on 0499 008 451

Or send a referral

Together, we can help you decide if blended tube feeding is right for you and set you up for success.