Name: Hydra+ JThickened Cranberry Juice IDDSI 2 Ready To Drink 1 L/33.8 oz (12/Case)
Brand: HYDRA+
SKU: CP-SYS-5454297
Price: 125.99 CAD
Availability: InStock

Description

Hydra+ Cranberry Juice IDDSI Level 2 is a ready-to-serve pre-thickened beverage designed for healthcare food service operations, long-term care facilities, and institutional dietary programs. Each 1-liter Tetra Pak delivers cranberry juice pre-thickened to IDDSI Level 2 (mildly thick/nectar consistency), eliminating the need for dietary staff to measure, mix, or prepare texture-modified beverages during meal service.

Made from real cranberry juice concentrate and enriched with vitamin C, this beverage maintains the familiar tangy cranberry flavor while meeting texture modification requirements prescribed by clinical teams. The shelf-stable Tetra Pak format provides convenient storage without refrigeration until opening, making it an efficient option for healthcare facility dietary departments.

The ready-to-drink format streamlines beverage service in hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, rehabilitation centers, and assisted living communities where residents or patients require IDDSI Level 2 consistency as specified in their care plans. Each container provides four 250mL servings, simplifying portion control and reducing preparation time during busy meal service periods.

Why Healthcare Food Service Professionals Choose Hydra+ Cranberry

Ready-to-Serve Efficiency Pre-thickened to exact IDDSI Level 2 specifications. No mixing equipment, measuring tools, or thickener powder required. Pour directly into serving cups, reducing meal service preparation time and eliminating consistency variation between staff members.

IDDSI Level 2 Standardization Professionally manufactured to meet IDDSI Level 2 (mildly thick/nectar) standards. Provides consistent texture that dietary departments can rely on without performing flow testing on individual servings.

Real Cranberry Juice Flavor Made from cranberry juice concentrate, offering authentic taste that encourages beverage consumption. The familiar cranberry flavor is well-accepted in healthcare dining programs and supports hydration goals.

Vitamin C Enrichment Fortified with vitamin C to support nutritional intake in healthcare populations. Particularly valuable in facilities where adequate vitamin intake is a dietary management priority.

Shelf-Stable Convenience Aseptic Tetra Pak packaging enables room-temperature storage for up to 12 months before opening. Maximizes dietary department storage flexibility and reduces refrigeration space requirements.

Portion-Controlled Packaging Each 1-liter container provides four 250mL (8.5 oz) servings, simplifying meal service portioning and inventory tracking in institutional food service operations.

Key Features

IDDSI Level 2 (Mildly Thick) Consistency Pre-thickened to nectar consistency following International Dysphagia Diet Standardisation Initiative Level 2 standards. Appropriate for individuals prescribed mildly thick beverages by speech-language pathologists or registered dietitians.

1-Liter Tetra Pak Format Aseptic carton packaging maintains product quality and safety without refrigeration before opening. Convenient pour spout facilitates controlled beverage service in healthcare dining operations.

Real Cranberry Juice Concentrate Authentic cranberry flavor from real juice concentrate. Provides the characteristic tangy taste that makes cranberry juice a popular beverage choice in healthcare menus.

Vitamin C Fortified Enhanced with vitamin C (ascorbic acid) to support overall nutritional quality. Contributes to daily vitamin intake for residents and patients in healthcare facilities.

Four 250mL Servings per Container Pre-measured servings simplify portion control and reduce waste. Easy to track consumption for dietary documentation and hydration monitoring programs.

No Preparation Required Arrives ready to pour and serve. Eliminates need for thickening powder, mixing procedures, or specialized equipment. Streamlines dietary staff workflow during meal service.

Shelf-Stable Storage Unopened containers store at room temperature for up to 12 months. Reduces dependency on limited refrigeration space in dietary departments before opening.

Kosher Certified Meets kosher dietary standards, expanding applicability across diverse healthcare facility populations with various dietary requirements.

Allergen-Friendly Formula Check current product labeling for complete allergen information. Generally formulated to accommodate common dietary restrictions in institutional settings.

Professional Food Service Applications

Healthcare Facility Beverage Programs

Long-Term Care Facilities Essential beverage option for skilled nursing facilities and residential care communities serving residents requiring IDDSI Level 2 beverages. Supports breakfast service, meal hydration, and between-meal fluid intake programs.

Hospital Dietary Services Simplifies texture-modified beverage service on patient units. Room service and tray line staff can portion and serve without specialized training in beverage thickening techniques or consistency testing.

Rehabilitation Centers Supports therapeutic nutrition programs where individuals are prescribed specific texture levels by clinical teams. Ready-to-serve format ensures consistent implementation of prescribed beverage consistency.

Assisted Living Communities Enables dining service staff to provide appropriate beverage options efficiently during meal service while maintaining compliance with resident care plan specifications from healthcare providers.

Operational Benefits

Dietary Department Efficiency Pre-thickened cranberry juice reduces food service preparation labor during meal service periods. Staff can focus on meal plating and service rather than beverage thickening and consistency verification procedures.

Quality Assurance Consistency Eliminates variability from manual thickening procedures. Every serving meets identical IDDSI Level 2 standards, supporting facility quality assurance programs and reducing risk of incorrect consistency preparation.

Staff Training Simplification New dietary aides and food service workers can serve texture-modified cranberry juice immediately without extensive training in thickener measurement, mixing techniques, or consistency testing protocols.

Inventory Management Shelf-stable format allows bulk purchasing and extended storage periods without consuming valuable refrigeration space. Reduces frequency of beverage supply reordering in facility purchasing cycles.

Product Specifications

Physical Characteristics

Product Name: Hydra+ Cranberry Juice, IDDSI Level 2 Mildly Thick
Brand: Hydra+
Flavor: Cranberry
Consistency Level: IDDSI Level 2 (Mildly Thick / Nectar Consistency)
Container Size: 1 liter (33.8 fl oz)
Servings per Container: 4 servings of 250mL (8.5 oz) each
Package Type: Tetra Pak aseptic carton with pour spout
Case Pack: Verify case quantities with distributor

Nutritional Profile

Vitamin C: Fortified (specific amount on product label)
Primary Ingredient: Cranberry juice concentrate
Additional Components: Water, thickening agents, natural flavors
Complete Nutrition Facts: Refer to product packaging for calories, sugars, carbohydrates, and complete nutritional information

Note: Cranberry juice typically contains natural sugars and carbohydrates. Consult current product labeling for specific nutritional values per serving.

Storage & Handling

Storage Before Opening: Room temperature, no refrigeration required
Storage After Opening: Refrigerate immediately in sealed container
Shelf Life (Unopened): Up to 12 months from manufacture date
Use After Opening: Consume within 5-7 days when refrigerated
Temperature Range: Store in cool, dry place; avoid extreme heat
Handling: Shake gently before opening if separation occurs

Dietary Information

Texture Level: IDDSI Level 2 - Mildly Thick (Nectar)
Kosher Certification: Kosher certified
Allergen Information: Check current product labeling for allergen declarations
Gluten Status: Verify gluten-free status on current product packaging
Sugar Content: Contains natural and/or added sugars typical of cranberry juice beverages
Dietary Considerations: Consult product label for complete dietary information

Quality Standards

IDDSI Compliant: Meets IDDSI Level 2 consistency specifications
Food Safety: Aseptic processing and packaging technology
Manufacturing: Produced under food safety quality standards
Labeling: Complete nutrition facts and ingredient information on packaging

IDDSI Level 2 (Mildly Thick) Overview

Understanding IDDSI Level 2

The International Dysphagia Diet Standardisation Initiative Level 2, also called "mildly thick" or "nectar-thick," describes a standardized liquid consistency thicker than water but thinner than honey-thick beverages. Healthcare professionals prescribe specific IDDSI levels based on clinical swallow assessments.

Consistency Characteristics

Flow Pattern: Slower than thin liquids, faster than honey consistency
Drinking Method: Can be consumed through standard straw with effort
Spoon Test: Coats spoon surface and drips in steady stream
Clinical Application: Prescribed by speech-language pathologists following swallow evaluation

Professional Prescription Context

Speech-language pathologists and clinical nutrition teams prescribe IDDSI Level 2 beverages following comprehensive swallow assessments. This consistency level is commonly recommended in healthcare settings as part of texture-modified diet programs.

Food Service Usage Guidelines

Serving Procedures

Preparation Steps:

Verify expiration date on Tetra Pak container before service
Shake container gently if product separation has occurred during storage
Open using pour spout mechanism on carton
Pour directly into serving cup or glass per portion specifications
Serve immediately or refrigerate covered portions for later service

Standard Portions:

Typical serving size: 250mL (8.5 oz) per serving
Four servings per 1-liter container
Adjust serving sizes based on facility standards and individual dietary orders
Can pour smaller portions (4-6 oz) if facility protocols specify

Service Temperature:

Serve chilled (refrigerated before opening) or at room temperature
For cold service, refrigerate sealed containers before opening
Do not add ice (dilutes consistency and alters texture level)
Follow facility beverage service temperature standards

Post-Opening Storage

Immediate Storage Requirements:

Reseal Tetra Pak using original closure or transfer to covered container
Label with opening date and contents identification
Refrigerate immediately at 40°F (4°C) or below
Position in refrigerator for visibility and access
Use within 5-7 days of opening for optimal quality

Quality Verification:

Check consistency remains appropriate before serving after storage
Discard if unusual odor, appearance, or texture changes occur
Follow facility food safety protocols for dated opened beverage items
Shake gently before serving if minor separation has occurred

Facility Planning & Case Quantities

Consumption Estimates

Per Container:

1 liter = 4 servings at 250mL (8.5 oz) each
1 liter = 5-6 servings at 150-200mL (5-7 oz) each (if smaller portions served)

Weekly Usage Examples: Based on number of residents/patients requiring Level 2 beverages and daily serving frequency:

5 individuals, 2 servings daily each: 70 servings/week = 18 containers/week
10 individuals, 2 servings daily each: 140 servings/week = 35 containers/week
20 individuals, 3 servings daily each: 420 servings/week = 105 containers/week

Ordering Recommendations:

Calculate based on census requiring Level 2 beverages
Factor in multiple daily servings (breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks)
Maintain buffer inventory for weekends and holidays
Consider cranberry juice as one of several flavor options in beverage rotation

Flavor Rotation Strategy

Beverage Variety: Hydra+ offers multiple flavors in Level 2 consistency. Facilities should stock several flavors to:

Provide daily variety and prevent flavor monotony
Accommodate individual taste preferences
Mirror thin liquid beverage variety offered to other residents
Support hydration by offering preferred flavor choices

Benefits of Ready-to-Serve Pre-Thickened Beverages

Operational Advantages

Labor Efficiency:

✅ Zero preparation time - pour and serve immediately
✅ No mixing equipment or cleanup required
✅ Eliminates measuring and mixing labor
✅ Reduces meal service preparation time
✅ Frees staff for other dietary tasks

Consistency Quality:

✅ Perfect IDDSI Level 2 every serving - no variation
✅ Eliminates human error in consistency preparation
✅ No risk of incorrect thickener measurement
✅ Supports quality assurance programs
✅ Consistent results across all shifts and staff

Training Benefits:

✅ Minimal staff training required
✅ Any food service worker can serve correctly
✅ No specialized skills needed
✅ Reduces onboarding time for new staff
✅ Simplifies standard operating procedures

Inventory Simplification:

✅ No thickener powder inventory management
✅ Shelf-stable storage flexibility
✅ Predictable usage tracking
✅ Reduced supply chain complexity
✅ Extended shelf life reduces waste

Quality Assurance Benefits

Regulatory Compliance: Using standardized IDDSI-compliant products supports:

State health department food service regulations
Facility quality assurance documentation
Consistent implementation of prescribed texture levels
Professional practice standards for dietary services

Risk Reduction:

Eliminates preparation errors
Ensures correct consistency every time
Supports safe beverage service protocols
Reduces potential for texture modification mistakes

Cranberry Juice in Healthcare Settings

Nutritional Role

Vitamin C Content: Cranberry juice naturally contains and is often fortified with additional vitamin C (ascorbic acid), supporting:

Immune function support
Antioxidant nutrition
Overall vitamin intake in healthcare populations
Daily nutrient requirements

Hydration Support: Flavorful beverages like cranberry juice encourage fluid intake compared to plain water, supporting:

Adequate daily hydration
Facility hydration programs
Fluid intake monitoring
Reduced risk of dehydration in elderly populations

Traditional Use: Cranberry juice has historical use in healthcare settings for urinary tract health support, making it a familiar and accepted beverage option in long-term care and healthcare facilities.

Menu Integration

Meal Service Applications:

Breakfast: Popular breakfast beverage option
Lunch/Dinner: Mealtime beverage choice
Snacks: Between-meal hydration and refreshment
Hydration Programs: Scheduled fluid intake support

Beverage Rotation: Cranberry juice as part of comprehensive flavor rotation:

Alternates with orange, apple, grape juices
Provides variety similar to thin liquid options
Prevents beverage monotony
Supports nutritional intake through preferred choices

Comparison: Ready-to-Serve vs. Manual Thickening

Ready-to-Serve Advantages (Hydra+ Cranberry)

Time Savings:

Pour and serve in 30 seconds vs. 2-3 minutes for powder thickening
No equipment setup or cleanup
Faster meal service during peak periods

Consistency Guarantee:

Every serving identical to IDDSI Level 2 standards
No variation from staff technique or experience
Eliminates need for consistency verification testing

Error Prevention:

Cannot over-thicken or under-thicken
No measurement mistakes possible
Reduces potential for incorrect consistency service

Taste Quality:

Professional formulation for optimal flavor
No powder texture or aftertaste
Better beverage acceptance and consumption

Manual Thickening Considerations

Operational Requirements:

Staff must measure thickener accurately
Mixing and stirring required
Equipment cleanup needed
Consistency testing recommended
Training required for all beverage service staff

Potential Issues:

Variability between staff members
Time-consuming during busy service
Risk of incorrect measurements
Requires thickener inventory management
Potential for lumps if mixed improperly

Cost-Benefit Analysis

While ready-to-serve products have higher per-serving costs, facilities should factor:

Labor savings: 1.5-2 minutes per serving = significant monthly hours
Quality assurance: Reduced risk of service errors
Staff satisfaction: Simplified workflow during meal service
Resident/patient acceptance: Better taste often improves consumption

Frequently Asked Questions

What does IDDSI Level 2 (mildly thick) mean? IDDSI Level 2 is an internationally standardized liquid consistency thicker than water but thinner than honey-thick beverages. It flows slowly and coats a spoon when tested. Healthcare professionals prescribe specific IDDSI levels based on clinical assessments.

Does cranberry juice require refrigeration before opening? No, unopened Tetra Pak containers are shelf-stable and can be stored at room temperature in cool, dry conditions. Refrigeration is only required after opening.

How long is the product good after opening? Once opened, reseal the container, refrigerate immediately, and consume within 5-7 days. Always follow facility food safety protocols for opened beverage products.

Can this be served through a straw? Yes, IDDSI Level 2 (nectar-thick) beverages can be consumed through a regular straw, though it requires more effort than thin liquids. Follow individual care plan specifications regarding straw use.

How many servings are in each container? Each 1-liter container provides four 250mL (8.5 oz) servings, or more servings if smaller portion sizes are standard at your facility.

Does this taste like regular cranberry juice? Hydra+ is formulated to maintain cranberry juice flavor while providing required consistency. The thickening process may create slight taste differences compared to thin cranberry juice, but the product is designed for palatability and acceptance.

Can I dilute this or add water? No. The product is manufactured to meet specific IDDSI Level 2 standards. Adding water or other thin liquids would alter the consistency and potentially make it inappropriate for individuals prescribed this texture level. Serve as packaged.

What if the juice has separated in the container? Some separation is normal for juice-based beverages during storage. Shake the container gently before opening and pouring to remix the contents.

Is this appropriate for individuals with diabetes? Cranberry juice contains sugars. Individuals with diabetes or other dietary restrictions should have beverage choices reviewed by registered dietitians as part of overall nutrition care planning. Check nutrition facts panel for carbohydrate and sugar content.

Can this beverage be heated? This product is designed for chilled or room temperature service. Heating is not recommended as it may alter consistency properties. Follow standard cold beverage service protocols.

Is this product kosher? Yes, Hydra+ Cranberry Juice is kosher certified. Check current packaging for certification symbols and details.

Who prescribes IDDSI Level 2 beverages for individuals? Speech-language pathologists typically conduct swallow assessments and make texture modification recommendations. These recommendations are incorporated into care plans by physicians and registered dietitians.

Does this contain preservatives? The aseptic Tetra Pak process preserves the product without requiring refrigeration before opening. Check the ingredient label for specific preservative information, if any are included.

Healthcare Facility Implementation

Introducing Pre-Thickened Cranberry Juice

Staff Education:

Review IDDSI level system and Level 2 characteristics
Demonstrate proper pour technique from Tetra Pak
Clarify portion sizes per facility standards
Cover storage requirements before and after opening
Emphasize importance of serving as-is without dilution

Quality Assurance Procedures:

Verify correct IDDSI level on packaging before service
Ensure staff understand ready-to-serve nature (no preparation)
Implement checks that opened containers are dated and refrigerated
Monitor that product is served within timeframes after opening
Track resident/patient acceptance and consumption

Menu Documentation:

Include in texture-modified diet menus
Add to beverage rotation schedules
Document in meal service records when served
Track as part of hydration monitoring programs

Beverage Program Integration

Meal Service:

Standard breakfast beverage option
Lunch and dinner mealtime choice
Between-meal hydration and snack service
Scheduled fluid intake programs

Flavor Variety: Stock multiple Hydra+ flavors (cranberry, orange, apple, grape) to:

Provide daily beverage variety
Accommodate individual preferences
Mirror beverage choices available to others
Support adequate fluid intake through preferred tastes

Storage & Inventory Best Practices

Optimal Storage

Before Opening:

Store in cool, dry dietary dry goods area
Maintain room temperature (avoid extreme heat)
Protect from direct sunlight exposure
Stack per manufacturer guidelines
Use FIFO (first in, first out) rotation
Check expiration dates at receiving and during inventory

After Opening:

Refrigerate immediately at 40°F (4°C) or below
Reseal using original closure or transfer to covered container
Label clearly with opening date and contents
Position for visibility and easy access in refrigerator
Use within 5-7 days per food safety protocols

Inventory Planning

Establishing Par Levels: Consider:

Census requiring Level 2 beverages
Average daily servings per individual
Delivery frequency from distributor
Available storage space
Buffer for weekends and supply delays

Ordering Strategies:

Weekly: Limited storage or small facilities
Bi-weekly: Medium facilities with adequate space
Monthly: Larger facilities with excellent storage capacity

Cost-Effectiveness for Facilities

Labor Savings Calculation

Time Comparison:

Manual thickening: 2-3 minutes per serving (measuring, mixing, cleanup)
Ready-to-serve: 30 seconds per serving (pour only)
Savings: 1.5-2.5 minutes per serving

Monthly Labor Impact Example: Facility serving 40 Level 2 cranberry juice servings daily:

Daily time saved: 60-100 minutes
Weekly savings: 7-11.7 hours
Monthly savings: 28-47 hours of dietary staff time

At average dietary aide wages, this represents significant monthly labor cost savings that offset higher per-serving product costs.

Quality Benefits Value