‘Next Level Tea’ has been developed in a joint venture with Tea From The Manor. After successful trials, the teas are being launched across Care UK homes this week to celebrate Nutrition and Hydration Week (17-23rd March).
The tea comes in four flavours including green tea and mint, red berry, English breakfast and Earl Grey, with the herbal and fruit flavours being decaffeinated. They are designed to support residents who live with dysphagia and are on levels one to four of the IDDSI framework.
Care UK says that by creating these teas, there are more beverage options for residents to choose from, which will support good hydration, which is critical to their health and wellbeing.
Andrew Mussett, hotel services manager at Care UK, said: “It was important to us that the teas maintained their strong aroma to help promote the flavour. Usually, once the thickener is added, this is lost, but we’re pleased that this is not the case here.
“There is an acidic bottom note to all of our blends, meaning they are the perfect palate cleanser for residents and the teas leave them feeling refreshed. Around 21% of residents across Care UK need thickened fluids to be able to drink safely.
“That’s why the creation of these teas is so important to us – we want to make sure that residents still have access to something that they find familiarity in and enjoy drinking. Whilst milkshakes, smoothies and fruit lassis are popular across our homes, you just can’t beat a good cup of tea.”