Vital 1.5 Cal Peptide-Based Nutrition

When calorie needs are high but tolerance is low, Vital 1.5 Cal from Abbott delivers concentrated nutrition in a smaller volume. Formulated with partially hydrolyzed (peptide-based) protein, it's designed for patients who have difficulty digesting or absorbing intact protein — a common concern following surgery, during critical illness, or in cases of malabsorption, pancreatitis, and short bowel syndrome.

Each serving provides 1.5 calories per milliliter, meaning fluid-restricted patients and those needing to gain or maintain weight can meet their goals without consuming large amounts of liquid. The peptide-based protein is broken down for easier digestion, and the formula includes prebiotic fiber and structured lipids (including MCTs) to support gut tolerance and fat absorption.

This collection carries both formats you're likely looking for. The Abbott Vital 1.5 Cal Vanilla, 1 liter container (62713) is ideal for tube feeding and larger-volume dosing, while the Vital 1.5 Cal Oral Supplement, Vanilla, 8 oz. carton (64825) is ready-to-use and sized for oral supplementation between meals. Both are suitable for adults and adolescents ages 14 and up, and both can be used as a sole source of nutrition or as a supplement, depending on your clinician's guidance.

Choosing the right concentration matters. If your patient tolerates a standard formula and doesn't require fluid restriction, the lower-calorie Vital 1.0 Cal may be a better fit, while Vital AF 1.2 Cal targets acute-care and inflammatory conditions. For a comparable high-calorie peptide option, many caregivers also weigh Pivot 1.5 Cal, which is formulated for stressed and immunocompromised patients.

Always confirm formula selection and feeding volume with a physician or dietitian, especially for tube-fed or medically complex patients.