Enteral feeding is an artificial feeding technique that provides the body with the nutrients it needs (protein, carbohydrate and fat) by means of a tube placed directly into the stomach, gut or intestines.

This type of feeding enables to maintain the physiological function of the gastro-intestinal tract and related organs. Enteral feeding is different to parenteral feeding which provides simple nutrients by intravenous drip, in which case, the gastro-intestinal tract is not required to function and may undergo atrophy.

In France, enteral feeding, which is used in hospitals, can now also be used at home. This enables patients to be discharged from hospital more quickly, reducing hospitalisation times for patients whose condition no longer requires specialist clinical care.