A survey of hospital dietitians was taken to determine the usage of clear and full liquid diets in the United States. All of the 299 who responded had these diets in their hospital manuals. Clear liquid diets in 82.3% of the hospitals provided less than 1000 kcal/day, while 27% of full liquid diets contained less than 1500 kcal/day. Both diets were usually taken for 3 or less days. Nearly 75% of those responding rarely used commercially prepared formulas with clear liquid diets whereas commercial formulas were often given with full liquid diets. Higher kilocalories per day are provided when these liquid diets are supplemented with commercial formulas. Prescribing foods only because they are liquid or liquify at room temperature regardless of their osmolarity or kilocalories has little rationale. The addition and/or substitution of newer commercially prepared formulas is suggested.