Enteral Feeding Formulas: Why Your Medical Business Should Invest in this Sector?

Highlights: 

• What is enteral feeding and enteral feeding formula? 
• What are the different types of enteral feeding formulas? 
• Strategies for businesses to capitalize on the opportunities in the industry 

Enteral feeding is the use of artificial external methods for intake of food when regular consumption isn’t possible due to reasons such as injury, disease, old age, etc. In most cases, enteral feeding involves the insertion of a tube directly into the stomach or small intestine through which the food is passed. Hence, in common parlance, enteral feeding is also called tube feeding. Depending on the physical condition of the patient, doctors prescribe certain enteral feeding formulas.  

How are enteral feeding formulas classified? 

Enteral feeding formulas are generally classified on the basis of the type of tubing, and nutritional needs and digestive abilities of the patient. The most common type of enteral feeding formula is standard formulas. In fact, the standard formulas segment is expected to gather an absolute revenue of $183.7 million by 2032. Also called whole protein formulas, these formulas are given especially for those patients who have normal digestion. Standard formulas have all the important ingredients including vitamins and fibers which are necessary for digestive health.  

Another important type of enteral feeding formula is peptide formulas. These formulas are similar to standard formulas, in that they also have all the necessary nutrients. However, the main difference between the two is that the proteins in peptide formulas are broken down so that they become easily digestible. Peptide formulas are also extremely popular; the peptides formula segment is anticipated to gather an absolute revenue of $55.9 million by 2032. Since peptide formulas are easier to digest, they are primarily fed to patients who are suffering from ailments such as malabsorption, cystic fibrosis, short bowel syndrome, etc. 

The third main type of enteral feeding formula is specialized formulas which are designed for patients having specific nutritional needs. The formulas contain not just nutritional ingredients like proteins, vitamins, and fibers but may also contain medications which are required to treat the patient’s disease. Specialized formulas are mainly for patients suffering from chronic diseases such as diabetes, liver disorders, kidney disorders, and respiratory ailments. The rising prevalence of such chronic disorders has led to a massive surge in demand for enteral feeding formulas throughout the globe. 

How can businesses stay at the top of the enteral feeding formulas industry? 

The global enteral feeding formulas industry is a dynamic one with major healthcare and pharmaceutical companies competing for dominance. Many such companies have also formed strategic alliances with each other to maintain a lead over their peers. For instance, Vygon, in March 2022, announced the acquisition of Macatt Medica, a distributor of enteral nutrition products. This acquisition, as per the statement released by Vygon, will help the company expand its operations significantly. Thus, businesses in this sector should make sure that their actions are contributing to the competitive spirit of the industry. Furthermore, businesses should also invest in R&D activities for developing new types of enteral feeding formulas for different chronic ailments.  

To summarize, the enteral feeding formulas industry has numerous growth opportunities. The growing geriatric population of the world will further amplify the scope of this sector. Businesses should invest in research and innovation to fully capitalize on these opportunities. 

For more recommendations on how healthcare and pharmaceutical companies can take a lead in the industry, feel free to contact us. 

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