Hormel thick and easy water is a pre-thickened beverage designed to provide hydration for people with dysphagia or swallowing difficulties. It contains several ingredients that help thicken the water to a nectar-like consistency that is easier and safer to swallow.
Key Ingredients
The main ingredients in Hormel thick and easy water that contribute to its thicker texture are:
- Cornstarch – A thickening agent extracted from corn that gives the water a smooth, silky texture.
- Maltodextrin – A mildly sweet polysaccharide (complex carb) that helps thicken the water.
- Gum Arabic – Also called acacia gum, this stabilizes the texture and prevents separation.
- Calcium Lactate – A calcium salt that maintains viscosity and mouthfeel.
In addition to these thickening agents, Hormel thick and easy water contains purified water as the primary ingredient as well as smaller amounts of natural flavors, citric acid, potassium chloride, and sucralose.
Complete List of Ingredients
Here is the full ingredient list for Hormel thick and easy water, in order from most to least:
- Purified Water
- Cornstarch
- Maltodextrin
- Gum Arabic
- Calcium Lactate
- Natural Flavors
- Citric Acid
- Potassium Chloride
- Sucralose
Nutrition Facts
Hormel thick and easy water is low in calories and doesn’t contain any significant macronutrients.
Here is the nutrition information per 8 fl oz serving (240mL):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 15 |
| Total Fat | 0g |
| Sodium | 50mg |
| Potassium | 60mg |
| Total Carbohydrate | 4g |
| Dietary Fiber | 0g |
| Sugars | 0g |
| Protein | 0g |
Thickening Agents
The key thickening ingredients in Hormel thick and easy water are cornstarch, maltodextrin, gum arabic, and calcium lactate.
Cornstarch
Cornstarch is extracted from corn grain and is almost entirely composed of the polysaccharide amylopectin. When cornstarch is heated in water, the amylopectin allows the liquid to thicken and take on a smooth, creamy texture.
Cornstarch thickens at a relatively low temperature (between 158-176°F) and continues thickening as it cools down. This makes it an effective thickener for beverages like Hormel thick and easy water.
Maltodextrin
Maltodextrin is derived from corn, rice, or potato starch. It is a polysaccharide made up of chains of glucose molecules. When dissolved in water, maltodextrin increases the viscosity to thicken liquids.
Maltodextrin helps maintain a uniform consistency and improves the mouthfeel of thickened drinks. It also provides a slightly sweet taste.
Gum Arabic
Gum arabic, also called acacia gum, is derived from the sap of acacia trees. It contains a soluble fiber called arabinoxylan that forms a gel-like matrix when mixed with water.
In beverages, gum arabic helps suspend particles, prevent separation, and improve texture and stability. It allows Hormel thick and easy water to maintain an even, smooth thickness.
Calcium Lactate
Calcium lactate is a calcium salt that helps balance flavor and also enhances viscosity. The calcium ions interact with particles in the water to support the thickened texture.
Calcium lactate improves mouthfeel and thickness when used along with cornstarch and maltodextrin. It helps Hormel thick and easy water achieve the ideal nectar-like consistency.
Flavors and Sweeteners
While thickening agents give Hormel thick and easy water its signature texture, natural flavors, citric acid, and sucralose also contribute to the taste.
Natural Flavors
The term “natural flavors” on an ingredient label indicates flavorings derived from fruits, vegetables, herbs, spices, or other plant or animal sources. The specific natural flavors used in Hormel thick and easy water are not disclosed.
These flavors likely provide a pleasant, subtle taste to the beverage. They may include fruit flavors like lemon, orange, or berry flavors.
Citric Acid
Citric acid is an organic acid naturally found in citrus fruits. In beverages, small amounts of citric acid can help balance pH and impart a fresh, tart flavor.
The dash of citric acid in Hormel thick and easy water gives it a slightly tangy, acidic note to brighten the flavor.
Sucralose
Sucralose is an artificial sweetener that provides sweetness without calories or carbohydrates. About 600 times sweeter than sugar, sucralose allows only a tiny amount to be used.
The sucralose in Hormel thick and easy water enhances the sweetness slightly without adding sugar or affecting the consistency.
Uses for Hormel Thick and Easy Water
Here are some of the benefits and uses of Hormel thick and easy water:
- Help people with dysphagia or swallowing disorders stay hydrated
- Provide thickened water consistency without preparation
- May be used as a substitute for juice or milk for people requiring thick liquids
- Convenient pre-thickened beverage for travel, hospitals, or restaurants
- Alternative to plain water for people with difficulty swallowing
- Calorie-free way to help meet fluid needs for elderly, ill, or disabled populations
Safety and Storage
Hormel thick and easy water can be safely consumed by most people with dysphagia. Here are some tips for proper storage and handling:
- Store unopened cartons at room temperature. Avoid freezing.
- Once opened, refrigerate and use within 3-4 days.
- Shake well before pouring.
- Discard if it becomes thin, watery, or has an odd appearance, smell, or taste.
- Consult a doctor before use if have kidney disease or on a renal diet.
- Not recommended for infants.
Conclusion
Hormel thick and easy water contains a precise mix of thickeners like cornstarch, maltodextrin, gum arabic, and calcium lactate to create a nectar-thick beverage that is easy to swallow. Natural flavors, citric acid, and sucralose balance the taste. When used correctly, Hormel thick and easy water can provide safe, convenient hydration for those requiring thickened liquids.