The Art of Food Fortification

Hello everyone and welcome back to my blog. It's been a while, but today I want to discuss food fortification, a topic I frequently cover with my patients when they are ready to go home and supplements are no longer needed.

Supporting individuals at risk of malnutrition or already experiencing it, especially those with severe weight loss or difficulties such as dysphagia (difficulty swallowing), requires food fortification as an essential tool. It's about more than just fulfilling nutritional requirements; it's about doing so in a manner that is safe, enjoyable, and even delightful! With some creativity and expertise, we can turn meals into potent sources of nourishment.

Let's explore the fascinating realm of food fortification and discover how to craft balanced, nutritious, and texture-modified meals that everyone can appreciate.

Table extrapolated from BAPEN: the British Association for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition

1. Making meals calorie-dense is essential for individuals needing extra energy. Here’s how:

• Enhance mashed vegetables like potatoes, carrots, or parsnips with butter, cream, or grated cheese.

  Example: Creamy mashed sweet potatoes with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.

• Turn soups into powerhouses by adding cream, full-fat milk, or Greek yogurt.

  Example: Broccoli soup blended with double cream and a handful of shredded cheddar.

• Add powdered milk to porridge, mashed vegetables, or hot drinks for an invisible calorie and protein boost.

  
  

2. Protein is key for maintaining strength and aiding recovery. Here are simple ways to add more protein:

• Blend meats and fish into smooth sauces or soups.

  Example: Pureed chicken added to a creamy mushroom soup for a savoury protein punch.

• Incorporate legumes like lentils or chickpeas.

  Example: Pureed red lentils mixed into a carrot and ginger soup for a hidden boost.

• Use eggs as a versatile protein source.

  Example: Whisk an egg into mashed potatoes or soups for a silky texture and added nutrients.

  
  

3. Healthy fats contribute to better nutrient absorption and provide extra calories.

• Avocado magic: Blend avocado into pureed vegetables for creaminess.

  Example: Spinach and avocado puree with a touch of garlic for a nutrient-packed side.

• Drizzle olive oil: Add a splash of olive oil to soups or purees.

  Example: A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil over pureed roasted red peppers.

• Nut butters: Stir peanut or almond butter into smoothies or pureed fruits.

  Example: Mashed bananas with peanut butter for a creamy and calorie-dense snack.

  
  

4. Drinks can also be fortified to provide extra calories and nutrients:

• Milk-based drinks: Blend whole milk with a spoonful of powdered milk and honey.

  Example: A rich vanilla milkshake made with full-fat milk, powdered milk, and vanilla essence.

• Fortified smoothies: Add Greek yogurt, nut butter, and pureed fruits to smoothies.

  Example: A smoothie with Greek yogurt, pureed banana, avocado, and a dash of honey.

• Supplement drinks: Incorporate prescribed oral nutritional supplements into smoothies.

7. When extra nutrition is needed, supplements can seamlessly integrate into meals:

• Mix oral supplements into puddings.

  Example: Add a nutritional supplement to custard or rice pudding .

• Fortify beverages: Blend the supplements into milkshakes or smoothies.

A Few Extra Ideas to Try

• Blend soft tofu into soups or smoothies for a protein and texture boost.

• Add a dollop of honey or syrup to sweeten purees for individuals with reduced appetite.

  
  

Food fortification is an art that combines creativity, nutrition, and care. With these tips and techniques, you can transform meals into nourishing, satisfying experiences for individuals at risk of malnutrition.

If you have any questions or want to share your own tips, feel free to connect.

Stay tuned for more insights and practical tips!

William Stivaletta (RD)