Is sorbitol an ingredient in enteral formulas?

• A. Yes
• B. No
• C. Only in pediatric formulas
• D. Only in diabetic formulas

Answer: (B)

Sorbitol is not used as a standard ingredient in enteral formulas. It’s a sugar alcohol that can act as an osmotic laxative and is poorly absorbed, which can lead to diarrhea, cramping, and variable glycemic response. Because of these GI tolerance concerns and the desire for predictable nutrient delivery, formulators rely on other carbohydrate sources like maltodextrin, glucose polymers, or corn syrup solids rather than sorbitol. The suggestion that it’s specific to pediatric or diabetic formulas isn’t accurate, since sorbitol is generally avoided across formula types to prevent GI intolerance and glycemic fluctuations.