Calorie and Nutrient Density
The calorie density of a product determines the volume of formula needed to meet the patient’s estimated needs. Routine formulas provide 1.0 to 1.2 cal/mL, whereas high-calorie formulas provide 1.5 to 2.0 cal/mL. A patient who needs 2000 calories can meet her or his calorie needs with 2000 mL of a 1.0 cal/mL formula. If that patient is volume or fluid restricted, a better option is 1000 mL of a 2.0 cal/mL formula.