Research shows that 38% of men and 37% of women living in care homes have low blood levels of vitamin D, so are at risk of being deficient. The NHS advises a 10mcg daily supplement of vitamin D for elderly people who are frail, housebound or living in care homes.
Comprising creamy chicken, thick vegetable, creamy mushroom and creamy tomato, Batchelors’ newly fortified soups are low in sugar and contain no added colours or preservatives. Caterers can adapt them to different needs - bolstering them with ingredients to add extra calories or protein - while retaining their taste and texture.
Sarah Robb, foodservice marketing manager at Premier Foods, said: "It’s challenging, making sure that the older generation in long-term care get the nutrients they need. Appetites often dwindle, alongside smell and taste, and we’re more likely to get dehydrated as we age. It’s unsurprising, therefore, that around a third of residents in care homes are malnourished.
“Good nutrition is vital, and we want to help by enriching lives through food. One way we can support the healthcare and care sectors is by fortifying our products to assist caterers and chefs. By adding nutrients that are particularly difficult for caterers to incorporate in their meals – such as vitamin D and A – our aim is to help caterers serve residents their daily nutrients in an easy, consistent, tasty way.
The new range is available now in 180 and 25 portion tubs and cartons. For free samples and more information on the benefits of fortification, caterers can email foodserviceteam@premierfoods.co.uk.
Juliette Kellow, an independent registered dietitian, added: “Vitamin D has many vital functions in our bodies. It’s essential for a well-functioning immune system and contributes to normal muscle function. It also helps to maintain our bones and teeth, aiding the absorption and utilisation of calcium and phosphorus.
“Vitamin A also has many important functions, including maintaining normal skin, vision and immune function. Ageing affects all these parts of our body so it’s vital elderly people get sufficient amounts of this vitamin as part of a balanced, healthy diet that supports their health and wellbeing.”