Hydra+ Water Thick Lemon IDDSI 3 1 L/33.8 oz (12/Case) Ready to Drink

Hydra+ IDDSI Level 3 Lemon Thickened Beverage Water is a ready-to-serve pre-thickened water designed for healthcare food service operations, long-term care facilities, and institutional dietary programs. Each 1-liter Tetra Pak delivers lemon-flavored water pre-thickened to IDDSI Level 3 (moderately thick/honey consistency), eliminating the need for dietary staff to measure, mix, or prepare texture-modified beverages during facility meal service.

Enriched with vitamin C and potassium citrate, this beverage provides a refreshing lemon flavor while meeting texture modification requirements prescribed by speech-language pathologists and clinical dietitians. The shelf-stable Tetra Pak format enables room-temperature storage for up to 12 months before opening, making it an efficient option for healthcare facility dietary departments with limited refrigeration space.

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 3 consistency as specified by clinical teams. Each container provides four 250mL servings, simplifying portion control and reducing preparation time during busy institutional meal service periods.

Why Healthcare Food Service Professionals Choose Hydra+ Level 3

Ready-to-Serve Operational Efficiency Pre-thickened to exact IDDSI Level 3 specifications. No mixing equipment, measuring tools, thickener powder, or consistency testing required. Pour directly from Tetra Pak into serving cups, reducing meal service preparation time and eliminating variability between dietary staff members or shifts.

IDDSI Level 3 Standardization Professionally manufactured to meet IDDSI Level 3 (moderately thick/honey consistency) standards. Provides consistent texture that dietary departments can rely on without performing spoon tilt tests or flow testing on individual servings.

Lemon-Flavored Hydration Light lemon flavor makes plain water more appealing, supporting hydration programs in healthcare facilities. The subtle citrus taste encourages beverage consumption while maintaining the refreshing qualities of water.

Vitamin C & Potassium Enrichment Fortified with vitamin C (ascorbic acid) and potassium citrate to support nutritional intake. Adds micronutrient value to hydration programs in healthcare settings where adequate vitamin and mineral intake is a dietary priority.

Shelf-Stable Tetra Pak Convenience Aseptic packaging enables room-temperature storage for up to 12 months before opening. Maximizes dietary department storage flexibility and reduces dependency on limited refrigeration space until containers are opened.

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

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Key Features

IDDSI Level 3 (Moderately Thick) Consistency Pre-thickened to honey consistency following International Dysphagia Diet Standardisation Initiative Level 3 standards. Appropriate for individuals prescribed moderately thick beverages by speech-language pathologists or registered dietitians based on clinical swallow assessments.

1-Liter Tetra Pak Aseptic Packaging Food-grade carton packaging maintains product quality and safety without refrigeration before opening. Pour spout design facilitates controlled beverage service in healthcare dining operations.

Lemon-Flavored Water Natural lemon flavoring provides subtle citrus taste that makes water more appealing. Supports hydration programs by offering flavored alternative to plain thickened water while maintaining low calorie profile.

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

Potassium Citrate Added Contains potassium citrate providing dietary potassium, an essential mineral supporting overall nutrition plans in long-term care and healthcare facility meal programs.

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

Zero Preparation Required Arrives ready to pour and serve. Eliminates need for thickening powder, mixing procedures, specialized equipment, or staff training in consistency preparation techniques.

12-Month Shelf-Stable Storage Unopened containers store at room temperature for up to 12 months from manufacture date. Reduces inventory waste and supports efficient purchasing cycles for healthcare facility supply chains.

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

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

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Professional Food Service Applications

Healthcare Facility Hydration Programs

Long-Term Care Facilities Essential beverage option for skilled nursing facilities and residential care communities serving residents requiring IDDSI Level 3 beverages. Supports hydration programs, meal service, and between-meal fluid intake protocols.

Hospital Dietary Services Simplifies texture-modified beverage service on patient units. Patient care assistants and tray service staff can portion and serve without specialized training in beverage thickening techniques or consistency verification.

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 throughout facility.

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 for Dietary Departments

Labor Time Reduction Pre-thickened water eliminates food service preparation labor during meal service periods. Staff can focus on meal assembly and resident service rather than beverage preparation and consistency testing procedures.

Quality Assurance Consistency Eliminates variability from manual thickening procedures. Every serving meets identical IDDSI Level 3 standards, supporting facility quality assurance programs and reducing risk of incorrect consistency preparation during shifts.

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

Inventory Management Efficiency 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.

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Product Specifications

Physical Characteristics

• Product Name: Hydra+ IDDSI Level 3 Lemon Thickened Beverage Water
• Brand: Hydra+
• Flavor: Lemon
• Base: Water with lemon flavoring
• Consistency Level: IDDSI Level 3 (Moderately Thick / Honey 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 with ascorbic acid (specific amount on product label)
• Potassium: Contains potassium citrate (specific amount on product label)
• Calories: Low-calorie profile (verify current label)
• Primary Ingredients: Water, natural lemon flavor, thickening agents, vitamin C, potassium citrate
• Complete Nutrition Facts: Refer to product packaging for calories, carbohydrates, and complete nutritional information per serving

Note: Lemon-flavored water typically has minimal calories and sugars. Consult current product labeling for specific nutritional values.

Storage & Handling Requirements

• 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 exposure
• Handling: Shake gently before opening if any separation has occurred during storage

Dietary & Certification Information

• Texture Level: IDDSI Level 3 - Moderately Thick (Honey Consistency)
• Kosher Certification: Kosher certified product
• Allergen Information: Check current product labeling for allergen declarations
• Gluten Status: Verify gluten-free status on current product packaging
• Sugar Content: Minimal or no added sugars (verify on label)
• Dietary Considerations: Consult product label for complete dietary information

Quality & Regulatory Standards

• IDDSI Compliant: Meets IDDSI Level 3 consistency specifications
• Food Safety: Aseptic processing and packaging technology
• Manufacturing Standards: Produced under food safety quality regulations
• Labeling: Complete nutrition facts and ingredient information on packaging

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IDDSI Level 3 (Moderately Thick) Overview

Understanding IDDSI Level 3

The International Dysphagia Diet Standardisation Initiative Level 3, also called "moderately thick" or "honey-thick," describes a standardized liquid consistency that flows more slowly than nectar-thick but faster than pudding-thick beverages. Healthcare professionals prescribe specific IDDSI levels following clinical swallow assessments.

Consistency Characteristics

• Flow Pattern: Thick, slow flow similar to honey consistency
• Spoon Test: Falls from spoon in thick, slow drips rather than continuous stream
• Fork Test: When tilted, drips slowly through fork prongs
• Drinking Method: Typically consumed from cup; too thick for standard straw use
• Clinical Application: Prescribed by speech-language pathologists following comprehensive swallow evaluation

Professional Prescription Context

Speech-language pathologists and clinical nutrition teams prescribe IDDSI Level 3 beverages following comprehensive swallow assessments. This consistency level is commonly recommended in healthcare settings for individuals requiring greater texture modification than Level 2 (nectar) as part of therapeutic diet programs.

Level 3 vs. Other IDDSI Levels

• Thicker than Level 2 (Nectar): Flows more slowly, requires spoon or careful cup drinking
• Thinner than Level 4 (Pudding): Still flows and can be drunk from cup, unlike spoon-thick Level 4
• Clinical Significance: Represents moderate texture modification prescription from clinical teams

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Food Service Usage Guidelines

Serving Procedures for Dietary Staff

Preparation Steps:

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

Standard Portion Guidelines:

• 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 different sizes

Service Temperature:

• Serve chilled (refrigerate sealed containers before opening) or at room temperature
• For cold service, refrigerate sealed containers several hours before opening
• Do not add ice (dilutes consistency and alters IDDSI Level 3 texture)
• Follow facility beverage service temperature standards and preferences

Service Vessel Considerations:

• IDDSI Level 3 (honey-thick) is typically served in cups rather than with straws
• Ensure appropriate cup selection for moderately thick consistency
• Follow individual care plan specifications regarding drinking methods

Post-Opening Storage Requirements

Immediate Storage Actions:

• Reseal Tetra Pak using original closure or transfer to covered container
• Label clearly with opening date and product contents identification
• Refrigerate immediately at 40°F (4°C) or below per food safety protocols
• Position in refrigerator for visibility and easy staff access during meal service
• Use within 5-7 days of opening for optimal quality and safety

Quality Verification Before Service:

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

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Facility Consumption Planning

Usage Estimates per Container

Per 1-Liter Container:

• 4 servings at 250mL (8.5 oz) each (standard)
• 5-6 servings at 150-200mL (5-7 oz) each (if smaller portions served)
• 8 servings at 4 oz (120mL) each (if very small portions served)

Weekly Facility Consumption Examples

Based on number of residents/patients requiring Level 3 beverages and daily serving frequency:

Small Facility (5 individuals, 2 servings daily):

• 70 servings/week
• Approximately 18 containers/week
• 72 containers/month

Medium Facility (10 individuals, 3 servings daily):

• 210 servings/week
• Approximately 53 containers/week
• 212 containers/month

Large Facility (20 individuals, 3 servings daily):

• 420 servings/week
• Approximately 105 containers/week
• 420 containers/month

Purchasing Recommendations

Ordering Considerations:

• Calculate based on census requiring Level 3 beverages
• Factor in multiple daily servings (meals plus hydration rounds)
• Maintain buffer inventory for weekends and holidays when deliveries may not occur
• Consider lemon water as one of several flavor options in beverage rotation
• Account for both meal service and between-meal hydration programs

Flavor Variety Strategy: Hydra+ offers multiple flavors in Level 3 consistency. Facilities should stock several flavor options to:

• Provide daily variety and prevent flavor fatigue
• Accommodate individual taste preferences among residents/patients
• Mirror beverage variety offered to individuals on regular diets
• Support hydration goals through preferred flavor availability

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Benefits of Ready-to-Serve Pre-Thickened Water

Operational Advantages Over Manual Thickening

Time & Labor Efficiency:

• ✅ Zero preparation time - pour and serve in seconds
• ✅ No mixing equipment setup or cleanup required
• ✅ Eliminates measuring and mixing labor entirely
• ✅ Reduces meal service preparation time significantly
• ✅ Frees dietary staff for other critical food service tasks

Consistency & Quality Assurance:

• ✅ Perfect IDDSI Level 3 every serving - zero variation
• ✅ Eliminates human error in consistency preparation
• ✅ No risk of incorrect thickener measurement or mixing
• ✅ Supports facility quality assurance and compliance programs
• ✅ Consistent results across all dietary staff shifts

Training & Skill Requirements:

• ✅ Minimal staff training required for service
• ✅ Any food service worker can serve correctly without special training
• ✅ No specialized skills needed in consistency preparation
• ✅ Reduces onboarding time for new dietary staff members
• ✅ Simplifies standard operating procedures significantly

Inventory & Supply Management:

• ✅ No thickener powder inventory management needed
• ✅ Shelf-stable storage provides maximum flexibility
• ✅ Predictable usage tracking and ordering
• ✅ Reduced supply chain complexity
• ✅ Extended 12-month shelf life minimizes waste

Quality & Compliance Benefits

Regulatory & Standards Support: Using standardized IDDSI-compliant products supports:

• State health department food service regulations compliance
• Facility quality assurance documentation requirements
• Consistent implementation of prescribed texture levels
• Professional practice standards for dietary services
• Reduced risk during regulatory surveys and inspections

Risk Management:

• Eliminates preparation errors that could compromise safety
• Ensures correct consistency every single time
• Supports safe beverage service protocols in all shifts
• Reduces potential for texture modification mistakes
• Protects facility from consistency-related incidents

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Hydration Programs in Healthcare Settings

Importance of Flavored Water Options

Hydration Encouragement: Lemon-flavored water provides taste variety that encourages fluid intake compared to plain water:

• Subtle citrus flavor makes water more appealing
• Supports adequate daily hydration goals
• Enhances facility hydration monitoring programs
• Reduces risk of dehydration in healthcare populations
• Provides low-calorie flavored hydration alternative

Menu Integration: Flavored thickened water fits multiple meal service applications:

• Meal Service: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner beverage option
• Hydration Rounds: Between-meal fluid intake programs
• Snack Time: Mid-morning and afternoon refreshment
• Medication Administration: Beverage for medication times
• Night Service: Evening hydration support

Beverage Rotation Strategy

Comprehensive Flavor Program: Lemon water as part of complete beverage rotation:

• Alternates with juice flavors (orange, cranberry, apple, grape)
• Provides variety similar to thin liquid options available to others
• Prevents beverage monotony over extended care periods
• Supports nutritional intake through preferred taste choices
• Allows individual preference accommodation

Vitamin & Mineral Contribution: While primarily a hydration vehicle, fortified water contributes:

• Vitamin C from enrichment
• Potassium from potassium citrate addition
• Supports overall micronutrient intake goals
• Complements nutritional content of meal service

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Comparison: Ready-to-Serve vs. Manual Thickening

Ready-to-Serve Advantages (Hydra+ Level 3)

Time & Efficiency:

• Pour and serve in 30 seconds vs. 2-3 minutes for powder thickening
• No equipment setup, mixing, or cleanup required
• Faster meal service during peak breakfast, lunch, and dinner periods
• Staff can focus on resident care rather than beverage preparation

Consistency Guarantee:

• Every serving identical to IDDSI Level 3 honey-thick standards
• No variation from staff technique, experience, or measuring accuracy
• Eliminates need for spoon tilt tests or consistency verification testing
• Reduces quality assurance monitoring burden on supervisory staff

Error Prevention:

• Cannot over-thicken or under-thicken beverages
• No measurement mistakes possible with ready-to-serve format
• Reduces potential for incorrect consistency service
• Protects facility from consistency-related incidents

Taste & Acceptance:

• Professional formulation for optimal flavor profile
• No powder texture or aftertaste common with manual thickening
• Better beverage acceptance often improves consumption
• Light lemon flavor appeals to varied taste preferences

Manual Thickening Considerations

Operational Requirements:

• Staff must measure thickener powder accurately for Level 3
• Mixing and stirring required (more powder = more mixing time)
• Equipment cleanup needed after each preparation
• Consistency testing recommended to verify Level 3 achievement
• Training required for all dietary and nursing staff involved in beverage service

Potential Challenges:

• Significant variability between staff members' mixing techniques
• Time-consuming during busy meal service periods
• Risk of incorrect powder measurements (especially Level 3 requires more powder)
• Requires ongoing thickener powder inventory management
• Potential for lumps if mixing is incomplete or rushed

Cost-Benefit Analysis for Facilities

Considerations Beyond Per-Serving Cost:

• Labor savings: 1.5-2 minutes per serving = 30-50 hours monthly for moderate census
• Quality assurance: Reduced risk of service errors and incidents
• Staff satisfaction: Simplified workflow improves dietary staff morale
• Resident/patient acceptance: Better taste often improves fluid intake
• Reduced waste: No wasted thickener powder from incorrect measurements

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does IDDSI Level 3 (moderately thick/honey-thick) mean? IDDSI Level 3 is an internationally standardized liquid consistency that flows slowly like honey. It's thicker than nectar-thick (Level 2) but thinner than pudding-thick (Level 4). Healthcare professionals prescribe specific IDDSI levels based on clinical swallow assessments by speech-language pathologists.

Does lemon water require refrigeration before opening? No, unopened Tetra Pak containers are shelf-stable and can be stored at room temperature in cool, dry conditions for up to 12 months. Refrigeration is only required after opening.

How long is the product good after opening? Once opened, reseal the container immediately, refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below, and consume within 5-7 days. Always follow your facility's food safety protocols for opened beverage products.

Can IDDSI Level 3 be consumed through a straw? IDDSI Level 3 (honey-thick) is generally too thick for comfortable straw consumption and is typically served in cups for drinking. Follow individual care plan specifications regarding drinking methods and adaptive equipment.

How many servings are in each container? Each 1-liter container provides four 250mL (8.5 oz) servings, though facilities may adjust portion sizes based on their standards and individual dietary orders.

Does this taste like plain water or does it have significant lemon flavor? Hydra+ Lemon Water has a subtle, light lemon flavor that makes water more appealing without being overpowering. The taste is refreshing and citrusy while maintaining the hydrating qualities of water.

Can I dilute this or add plain water to adjust consistency? No. The product is manufactured to meet specific IDDSI Level 3 standards. Adding water or other thin liquids would alter the consistency and potentially make it inappropriate for individuals prescribed this texture level. Always serve as packaged.

What if the water has separated in the container during storage? Some separation may occur and is normal during storage. Shake the container gently before opening and pouring to remix the contents thoroughly.

Is this appropriate for individuals with diabetes? Lemon water typically contains minimal or no added sugars, making it generally appropriate for diabetes management. However, individuals with diabetes should have all beverage choices reviewed by registered dietitians as part of overall nutrition care planning. Check the nutrition facts panel for carbohydrate 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 and flavor. Follow standard cold beverage service protocols for your facility.

Is this product kosher certified? Yes, Hydra+ Lemon Water IDDSI Level 3 is kosher certified. Check current packaging for certification symbols and details.

Who prescribes IDDSI Level 3 beverages for individuals in care? Speech-language pathologists conduct swallow assessments and make texture modification recommendations. These recommendations are incorporated into care plans by physicians and implemented by registered dietitians and dietary services.

Does this contain artificial sweeteners or preservatives? The product uses natural lemon flavoring. The aseptic Tetra Pak process preserves the product without requiring refrigeration before opening. Check the ingredient label for complete information on sweeteners and any preservatives.

Why is Level 3 prescribed instead of Level 2 for some individuals? Clinical teams prescribe different IDDSI levels based on individual swallow assessment results. Level 3 provides greater texture modification than Level 2, appropriate for individuals requiring thicker consistency based on their specific clinical needs as determined by speech-language pathologists.

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Healthcare Facility Implementation Guidelines

Introducing Hydra+ Level 3 Lemon Water

Staff Education Components:

• Review IDDSI level system with focus on Level 3 characteristics
• Demonstrate proper pour technique from Tetra Pak containers
• Clarify facility portion sizes and service standards
• Cover storage requirements before and after opening
• Emphasize importance of serving as-is without dilution or modification

Quality Assurance Procedures:

• Verify correct IDDSI level (Level 3) on packaging before service
• Ensure staff understand ready-to-serve nature (absolutely no preparation needed)
• Implement checks that opened containers are properly dated and refrigerated
• Monitor that product is served within appropriate timeframes after opening
• Track resident/patient acceptance, consumption, and hydration outcomes

Menu & Service Documentation:

• Include in texture-modified diet menus and meal planning
• Add to beverage rotation schedules for Level 3 consistency
• Document in meal service records when served to individuals
• Track as part of hydration monitoring and fluid intake programs
• Include in nutritional analysis for care plan documentation

Hydration Program Integration

Scheduled Fluid Intake:

• Morning: Breakfast beverage option
• Mid-Morning: Hydration round between meals
• Lunch: Meal service beverage choice
• Afternoon: Snack time hydration
• Dinner: Evening meal beverage
• Evening: Night hydration support

Beverage Variety Strategy: Stock multiple Hydra+ Level 3 flavors to:

• Provide daily beverage variety and choice
• Accommodate individual taste preferences
• Mirror beverage options available to others
• Support adequate fluid intake through preferred tastes
• Prevent flavor fatigue over long-term care periods

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Storage & Inventory Management

Optimal Storage Practices

Before Opening:

• Store in cool, dry dietary dry goods storage area
• Maintain room temperature conditions (avoid extreme heat)
• Protect containers from direct sunlight exposure
• Stack per manufacturer guidelines to prevent container damage
• Use FIFO (first in, first out) inventory rotation methods
• Check expiration dates at receiving and during regular inventory audits

After Opening:

• Refrigerate immediately at 40°F (4°C) or below
• Reseal using original closure or transfer to covered container with lid
• Label clearly with opening date and product identification
• Position for visibility and easy staff access in refrigerator
• Use within 5-7 days per food safety protocols
• Monitor daily for quality and discard if any concerns

Facility Inventory Planning

Establishing Par Levels: Consider multiple factors:

• Census of residents/patients requiring Level 3 beverages
• Average daily servings per individual (meals plus hydration rounds)
• Delivery frequency from distributor or supplier
• Available dry storage space in dietary department
• Buffer stock for weekends and holidays when deliveries don't occur

Ordering Strategy Options:

• Weekly Orders: Limited storage space or very small facilities
• Bi-Weekly Orders: Medium facilities with adequate storage
• Monthly Orders: Larger facilities with excellent storage capacity and stable census

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Cost-Effectiveness Analysis

Labor Savings Calculation

Time Comparison per Serving:

• Manual thickening (Level 3): 2.5-3.5 minutes per serving (measuring more powder, thorough mixing, cleanup)
• Ready-to-serve: 30 seconds per serving (pour only)
• Time Saved: 2-3 minutes per serving

Facility-Level Impact Example: Facility serving 35 Level 3 beverage servings daily:

• Daily time saved: 70-105 minutes (1.2-1.75 hours)
• Weekly savings: 8.4-12.25 hours
• Monthly savings: 33.6-49 hours of dietary staff labor

At average dietary aide wage rates, this represents significant monthly labor cost savings that substantially offset higher per-serving product costs of ready-to-serve beverages.

Quality & Compliance Value

Risk Reduction Benefits:

• Eliminates incorrect consistency preparation errors
• Reduces potential service mistakes during busy shifts
• Improves regulatory compliance and survey readiness
• Supports quality of care standards and goals
• Protects facility reputation and reduces incident risk

Operational Efficiency Gains:

• Faster, smoother meal service timing
• Simplified staff training programs and onboarding
• Reduced equipment and cleanup requirements
• Better inventory tracking and management
• Improved dietary staff satisfaction and morale