A ready-for-use enteral feeding product was manufactured based on energy standard mixing using hydrolyzed products from local foods (i.e., loin pork, carrot, pumpkin, soybean, rice, and potato). When compared to enteral foods based on defined ingredients, the manufactured product is more cost-effective, appropriately functional and has similar physicochemical properties. Relative protein digestibility for in vitro value was tested by using enzyme pepsin, pH-drop and pH-stat method with three different enzymes. The product was shown to be easily digested with an in vivo digestibility value of 89.7%. Molecule sizes of components in the product ranged from 3.5 to 8.5 kDa, determined by SDS-PAGE, and the average molecular weight was 1.52 kDa, determined by Gel Permeation Chromatography (GPC) method. In terms of nutritional value, the product achieved a caloric density of 1 kcal/mL, dietary fibers of 1.48 g per 100 mL and provided both oligomeric and monomeric forms of protein. In addition, the product has the leucine: isoleucine: valine ratio of 2:1:1, thus facilitating the absorption of the protein. In conclusion, the manufactured enteral feeding product has been shown to be appropriate for providing nutritional support for patients.Processes 2019, 7, 347 2 of 14 to the improvement in the nutritional status of patients and reduced hospital stays [5][6][7][8][9]. However, in order to be used effectively, EN formulas should meet strict requirements. According to the European Society for Clinical Nutrition and Metabolism (ESPEN) guideline, a standard formula should not pose the risk of tube clogging and infection and should satisfy basic criteria of safety and efficacy [10]. At present, the ready-for-use enteral feeding products with liquid formula, which are now widely available on the market, are often delivered to patients in hospitals and at home. In addition, the pressing demand for better nutritional support during and after sickness period has therefore urged for development, processing and manufacturing of enteral products with reduced intolerances, efficacy and, most importantly, affordability.Enteral formula is preferred to hospital-made blenderized feed in developing countries. In Vietnam, the majority of EN feeding products used are often made by their caregivers, and therefore, may not meet standard requirements of quality and safety. In addition, the dilution of the pureed homemade product required for passage though the catheter might lead to lowered energy density and the loss of nutrients and pose high risk of microbial contamination. However, despite these limitations of self-made EN, the availability of high-quality EN products in central hospitals of Vietnam is still limited, mostly due to the high cost of imported EN and the lack of a reliable source of domestically manufactured products.A feeding product should first meet the nutritional criteria, especially protein in general and animal protein in particular. The latter, along with carbohydrates, serves as the main source of energy.In addition, t...
