Hormel Thick & Easy Food and Beverage Thickener, Bulk | 2KG/Unit, 1 Unit/Case

Hormel Thick & Easy is a professional-grade food and beverage thickener designed for healthcare food service operations, institutional kitchens, and dietary departments. This medical nutrition product enables precise texture modification of foods and liquids according to prescribed dietary specifications and IDDSI framework standards.

The 2-kilogram bulk container provides economical supply for high-volume food service operations including hospitals, long-term care facilities, rehabilitation centers, and healthcare institutions. As a trusted product line from Hormel Health Labs, Thick & Easy delivers consistent performance across diverse food service applications while maintaining quality standards expected in professional healthcare environments.

Registered dietitians, food service directors, and healthcare nutrition professionals specify Thick & Easy for texture-modified diet programs due to its reliable performance, ease of use in commercial kitchens, and compliance with international dietary standards. The neutral formula integrates into institutional meal preparation without affecting food taste or appearance.

Why Food Service Professionals Choose This Product

IDDSI Framework Compliance Enables precise preparation across all IDDSI levels (0-4), allowing dietary departments to implement prescribed diet orders accurately and maintain compliance with clinical nutrition protocols established by speech-language pathologists and medical teams.

Instant Thickening Performance Modified food starch formula thickens within 30 seconds of mixing, streamlining meal service workflows in busy institutional kitchens. Rapid action supports efficient food service operations during scheduled meal times.

Temperature Versatility Maintains consistent viscosity in hot applications (coffee, tea, soup broth) and cold preparations (juice, milk, nutritional supplements) without continued thickening or texture breakdown. This stability supports flexible meal service timing.

Commercial Kitchen Compatibility Formulated for large-scale food service operations. Works with institutional mixing equipment, maintains consistency in steam tables and meal delivery systems, and integrates into standardized recipe procedures.

Quality Manufacturing Standards Produced by Hormel Health Labs under FDA-regulated manufacturing processes. Consistent batch-to-batch quality supports dietary department quality assurance programs and regulatory compliance requirements.

Key Features

2KG Professional Bulk Container Commercial-sized format designed for institutional food service operations. Provides approximately 200-400 servings depending on consistency level specified, offering operational efficiency and value for healthcare facilities.

Modified Food Starch Base FDA-approved food-grade modified corn starch formulation. Meets standards for medical nutrition products used in healthcare food service applications.

Multi-Purpose Food Service Application Compatible with all beverage types (water, juice, milk, coffee, tea, nutritional supplements, broths) and semi-solid foods (purées, soups, sauces, gravies) commonly prepared in institutional kitchens.

Standardized Consistency Achievement Supports preparation of established texture levels:

• IDDSI Level 1: Slightly Thick
• IDDSI Level 2: Mildly Thick (Nectar consistency)
• IDDSI Level 3: Moderately Thick (Honey consistency)
• IDDSI Level 4: Extremely Thick (Pudding consistency)

Food Service Quality Assurance Manufactured under quality control systems ensuring product consistency. Supports healthcare facility quality management and dietary compliance programs.

Allergen-Friendly Formula Gluten-free formulation expands applicability across diverse institutional dietary programs. Suitable for facilities serving populations with various dietary restrictions.

Extended Shelf Stability Long shelf life in sealed container reduces inventory waste and supports efficient purchasing cycles for healthcare facility supply chains.

Professional Food Service Applications

Healthcare Facility Dietary Departments

Hospital Food Service Integrates into hospital dietary operations for texture-modified diet preparation. Supports clinical nutrition programs and therapeutic diet services as part of comprehensive meal service operations.

Long-Term Care Dining Programs Essential ingredient for skilled nursing facilities and assisted living communities preparing modified texture meals. Supports dietary services meeting regulatory food service standards and resident dining programs.

Rehabilitation Center Nutrition Services Used in rehabilitation facility kitchens for therapeutic nutrition programs. Enables texture-modified meal preparation according to individual care plans and clinical team recommendations.

Specialty Healthcare Facilities Appropriate for medical centers, specialty hospitals, and healthcare institutions with dietary departments preparing modified texture meals according to clinical nutrition specifications.

Food Service Professional Roles

Healthcare Food Service Directors Streamlines texture modification processes in institutional kitchens. Simplifies staff training on modified diet preparation and ensures consistent results across multiple food service shifts.

Clinical Dietitians & Nutrition Managers Professional-grade product meeting specifications for institutional texture-modified diet programs. Minimal nutritional impact preserves overall meal plan nutrient profiles and therapeutic diet goals.

Dietary Services Supervisors Supports standardized food preparation procedures across dietary staff. Enables quality control monitoring and regulatory compliance documentation in food service operations.

Food Service Training Programs Appropriate for healthcare dietary aide training and food service certification programs teaching texture-modified diet preparation techniques and IDDSI implementation.

Product Specifications

Composition & Ingredients

• Primary Component: Modified Corn Starch (food-grade)
• Additional Ingredients: Maltodextrin (formulation may vary)
• Allergen Information: Gluten-free; refer to current product labeling for complete allergen declarations
• Certification Status: Check packaging for Kosher and other certifications

Nutritional Profile (Per 1.5g serving - typical)

• Calories: 5 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 1.5g
• Sugars: 0g
• Protein: 0g
• Fat: 0g
• Sodium: <5mg
• Dietary Impact: Minimal nutritional contribution to overall diet composition

Physical Characteristics

• Form: Fine white powder
• Flow Properties: Free-flowing granular texture
• Taste Profile: Neutral (no added flavoring)
• Aroma: Odorless
• Visual Impact: Minimal cloudiness in clear liquids
• pH Level: Neutral (does not alter food/beverage pH)

Package Information

• Net Weight: 2 kilograms (4.4 pounds)
• Container Type: Food-grade plastic with secure closure
• Case Configuration: 1 unit per case (confirm case quantities with distributor)
• Shelf Life: 18-24 months from manufacture (unopened, properly stored)
• Post-Opening Use Period: 3-6 months when stored correctly in cool, dry conditions

Regulatory Compliance

• FDA Status: Approved food ingredient for medical nutrition products
• IDDSI Alignment: Compatible with IDDSI framework for texture classification
• Manufacturing Standards: Produced under FDA food safety regulations
• Quality Systems: Hormel Health Labs quality management protocols

Food Service Usage Guidelines

Standard Preparation Procedures

Institutional Kitchen Protocol:

1. Measure specified amount of liquid or semi-solid food into appropriate container
2. Add precise amount of thickening powder per recipe card or dietary order specifications
3. Mix thoroughly using institutional mixing equipment or manual stirring (15-30 seconds)
4. Allow 30 seconds for full consistency development
5. Verify texture using standardized testing methods (spoon tilt test or IDDSI flow test)
6. Adjust as needed following established recipe protocols and dietary standards

Food Service Best Practices:

• Add powder to liquid (not liquid to powder) to minimize clumping
• Use calibrated measuring tools for consistency between batches and shifts
• Product reaches target consistency quickly and remains stable during meal service
• Can be prepared using commercial mixing equipment, shaker bottles, or hand stirring
• Mixed preparations maintain consistency for extended hold times in healthcare food service

Consistency Preparation Chart (Per 100mL Liquid)

IDDSI Level 1 - Slightly Thick:

• Powder Amount: 0.5-1 teaspoon (2-3 grams)
• Flow Characteristics: Faster flow than honey, slower than unthickened liquid
• Typical Use: Mild texture modification

IDDSI Level 2 - Mildly Thick (Nectar):

• Powder Amount: 1-1.5 teaspoons (3-5 grams)
• Flow Characteristics: Coats spoon, continuous drip pattern
• Typical Use: Standard nectar-thick consistency

IDDSI Level 3 - Moderately Thick (Honey):

• Powder Amount: 2-3 teaspoons (6-9 grams)
• Flow Characteristics: Slow, thick drip pattern from spoon
• Typical Use: Honey-like viscosity level

IDDSI Level 4 - Extremely Thick (Pudding):

• Powder Amount: 3-4 teaspoons (9-12 grams)
• Flow Characteristics: Holds shape on spoon, minimal to no drip
• Typical Use: Spoon-thick pudding consistency

Note: These are general guidelines for institutional food service use. Always follow facility-specific recipes, dietary orders, and clinical team specifications for individual meal preparation.

Application-Specific Instructions

Hot Beverage Service (Coffee, Tea, Hot Chocolate):

• Allow beverage to cool slightly (not actively boiling) before adding thickener
• Stir continuously while incorporating powder into liquid
• Hot liquids may require slightly less thickener than equivalent cold volume
• Consistency remains stable as beverage temperature decreases during consumption

Cold Beverage Preparation (Juice, Milk, Water):

• Cold temperature may require slightly more thickener to achieve same consistency
• Shaker bottle method works efficiently for cold beverage preparation
• Consistency remains stable even when served with ice in healthcare dining service

Nutritional Supplement Thickening (Ensure, Boost, etc.):

• Follow supplement manufacturer's guidance for thickening recommendations
• Some protein-rich supplements may require adjusted ratios due to protein content
• Shake method preferred for maintaining nutritional supplement homogeneity

Pureed Foods & Soup Applications:

• Start with smaller amounts as base foods often have inherent thickness
• Add gradually while mixing thoroughly to avoid over-thickening
• Can modify gravies, sauces, and purées to achieve desired texture levels

Carbonated Beverage Modification:

• Add thickener slowly to minimize foam production during mixing
• Stir gently to preserve some carbonation in final preparation
• Note: carbonation naturally dissipates over time in thickened beverages

Storage & Handling Guidelines

Optimal Storage Conditions

Before Opening:

• Store in cool, dry location (room temperature 59-86°F / 15-30°C)
• Keep away from moisture sources and high-humidity areas
• Protect from direct sunlight and heat exposure
• Do not freeze product
• Maintain in original sealed container until ready for use

After Opening:

• Reseal container tightly after each use to prevent moisture exposure
• Keep lid securely closed between uses
• Store in dry environment (powder readily absorbs moisture from air)
• Use clean, dry utensil each time to prevent cross-contamination
• Best quality when used within 3-6 months after initial opening

Institutional Storage Practices:

• Store in food service dry storage area with other dietary supplements
• Maintain separation from cleaning supplies and chemicals
• Implement FIFO (first in, first out) inventory rotation
• Date containers when opened for tracking purposes
• Store at appropriate height following food safety protocols (off floor, below non-food items)

Quality Control Checks

Product Quality Indicators:

• Powder should maintain free-flowing consistency without clumping
• White to off-white color with no discoloration present
• No unusual odors detected
• Consistent thickening performance across batches

When to Discontinue Use:

• Powder has absorbed significant moisture and formed hard clumps
• Container has been exposed to water or excessive humidity
• Product is past expiration date printed on container
• Any signs of contamination or foreign matter present

Ideal For

Healthcare Facility Types

Skilled Nursing Facilities Essential dietary supply for modified texture diet programs in long-term care settings. Supports resident meal service plans and meets regulatory requirements for therapeutic diet preparation.

Acute Care Hospitals Integrates into hospital food service operations for inpatient meal preparation requiring texture modification. Supports clinical nutrition services and therapeutic dietary interventions.

Assisted Living Communities Enables dining programs to accommodate residents with varying texture needs as specified by healthcare providers. Supports aging services dining operations and individualized meal plans.

Rehabilitation Facilities Supports therapeutic nutrition programs during recovery periods. Allows facility kitchens to prepare meals matching individual care plan specifications as residents progress through programs.

Professional Purchasers

Healthcare Purchasing Departments Cost-effective bulk format for facilities with ongoing texture-modified meal service needs. Supports purchasing efficiency for dietary supply procurement.

Food Service Distributors Wholesale medical nutrition product appropriate for distribution to healthcare facilities, long-term care communities, and institutional food service operations.

Dietary Department Managers Professional-grade product for facilities requiring reliable texture modification capabilities. Supports quality assurance programs and standardized meal preparation protocols.

Home Healthcare Supply Companies Bulk format appropriate for agencies providing nutrition support products to clients receiving home-based care services from healthcare professionals.

Professional Quality Standards

Manufacturing Excellence

Hormel Health Labs produces Thick & Easy under comprehensive quality management systems. The facility follows FDA food safety regulations and maintains consistent manufacturing standards across all production batches.

Institutional Heritage

As part of Hormel's healthcare product line, Thick & Easy benefits from the company's food manufacturing expertise and commitment to quality in medical nutrition products.

Compliance Support

Product design supports healthcare facilities in meeting regulatory requirements for therapeutic diet programs, food service standards, and clinical nutrition protocols.

Comparison: Thick & Easy vs. Other Food Service Thickeners

vs. Modified Starch Thickeners (Resource ThickenUp, Thick-It)

Common Features:

• Modified food starch base ingredient
• IDDSI framework compatibility for consistency standardization
• Suitable for hot and cold food service applications

Thick & Easy Distinguishing Features:

• Hormel Health Labs manufacturing quality standards
• Established food industry quality control systems
• Comprehensive institutional product support resources

vs. Gum-Based Thickening Products (Xanthan gum formulations)

Modified Starch Benefits (Thick & Easy):

• Faster, more predictable thickening action for food service timing
• Does not continue to thicken after reaching target consistency
• Generally more economical per serving for institutional budgets
• Broader food application versatility in commercial kitchens

Gum-Based Product Characteristics:

• Different texture characteristics preferred by some facilities
• May offer resistance to breakdown from oral enzymes
• Alternative for individuals with corn-based ingredient sensitivities

Institutional Positioning

Professional-grade product with established presence in healthcare food service. The 2kg bulk format specifically targets facilities and agencies requiring consistent, ongoing supply for texture-modified meal programs.

Frequently Asked Questions

How quickly does this product thicken liquids? The modified starch formula thickens immediately upon mixing and reaches full target consistency within 30 seconds. Unlike some gum-based alternatives that continue thickening over time, this product achieves stable consistency quickly and maintains it throughout meal service periods.

Does thickened liquid alter taste or appearance? The product is formulated to be tasteless and odorless with minimal visual impact. Clear liquids may appear slightly cloudy when thickened. The neutral sensory profile preserves original food and beverage flavors in healthcare dining service.

Can prepared items be reheated after thickening? Yes, thickened beverages and foods can be reheated following standard food service protocols. Consistency remains stable with temperature changes. Microwave or stovetop reheating methods are both acceptable. Stir gently after reheating to ensure even temperature distribution.

How long do thickened preparations remain at proper consistency? When mixed according to standard procedures, consistency remains stable for hours at room temperature or under refrigeration. For food safety compliance, follow general institutional food handling guidelines regarding hold times for prepared foods and beverages.

Is this product appropriate for special dietary requirements? The gluten-free formulation makes it suitable for facilities serving individuals with gluten restrictions. The product contains approximately 1-1.5g carbohydrate per serving (amount varies based on quantity used), which should be considered in overall dietary planning. Consult product labeling for complete nutritional and allergen information.

Does it work with carbonated beverages? Yes, though carbonation will naturally dissipate over time in thickened beverages. Add thickener gently to minimize foaming during preparation. Note that thickened carbonated beverages are less commonly prepared in clinical food service settings.

Can consistency be adjusted after preparation? If consistency becomes thicker than desired, you can thin by adding more liquid and mixing thoroughly. Food service best practice is to start with less thickener and gradually add more as needed rather than attempting to thin overly thick preparations.

Is this product gluten-free? Yes, the formulation does not contain gluten-containing ingredients, making it suitable for facilities serving populations with celiac disease or gluten sensitivities. Always verify current product labeling for the most up-to-date allergen and ingredient information.

How many servings does a 2kg container provide? Yield varies based on consistency level prepared. For nectar-thick consistency (most commonly prepared level), approximately 400-500 servings per 2kg container. For honey-thick consistency, approximately 200-300 servings. For pudding-thick, approximately 150-200 servings.

What are the IDDSI levels? The International Dysphagia Diet Standardisation Initiative (IDDSI) established standardized terminology and objective testing methods for texture-modified foods and liquids used in healthcare settings. Levels range from thin (Level 0) to pudding-thick (Level 4), with specific flow characteristics and measurement criteria for each level.

Is special training required to use this product? While the product itself is straightforward to use, healthcare facilities should ensure dietary staff understand proper mixing procedures, can verify correct consistency levels using standardized testing, and follow facility protocols for texture-modified diet preparation. Quality assurance procedures should be in place for diet preparation.

Professional Resources & Implementation

Clinical Guidelines Reference

Healthcare professionals implementing texture-modified diet programs should reference:

• IDDSI Framework (iddsi.org) for standardized terminology and objective testing methods
• American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) clinical practice guidelines
• Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics evidence-based practice guidelines
• Individual facility policies and procedures for modified diet preparation protocols

Staff Training Considerations

Facilities using texture modification products should ensure:

• Food service staff understand proper mixing and measurement procedures
• Nursing staff can verify correct consistency levels using standardized tests
• Quality assurance procedures are documented and followed consistently
• All dietary staff have access to facility-specific preparation guidelines

Documentation Standards

In healthcare settings, texture-modified diet documentation typically includes:

• Physician or provider orders specifying texture requirements
• Clinical assessment results from speech-language pathology
• Registered dietitian nutrition care plans
• Consistency level specifications using standardized IDDSI terminology
• Ongoing monitoring and outcomes documentation per facility protocols

Cost-Effectiveness for Institutional Purchasing

Institutional Value Analysis

Per-Serving Economics: At approximately 300-500 servings per 2kg container (varies by consistency level), institutional cost per serving is significantly lower than individual-portion packets. Bulk containers provide the most economical choice for facilities with ongoing texture modification needs.

Operational Efficiency: Bulk containers streamline food service operations by:

• Reducing packaging waste in dietary departments
• Minimizing storage space requirements compared to equivalent individual packets
• Simplifying inventory management and ordering processes
• Reducing time spent opening individual packet servings during meal prep

Waste Reduction: Precise portioning from bulk containers reduces waste compared to single-serve packets where partial contents from opened packets cannot be saved. Unused powder returns to sealed container for future use, minimizing product loss.

Long-Term Supply Planning

Facility Consumption Estimates: For planning purposes, facilities can estimate usage based on:

• Number of residents/patients requiring texture-modified diets
• Average consistency levels prescribed
• Meals served per day requiring texture modification
• Standard serving sizes per individual

Budget Planning: Bulk format provides predictable costs for annual dietary budget planning. One 2kg container typically serves a facility for 1-4 weeks depending on census and dietary program needs.