News

Hormel supports cancer sufferers

6 May 2016

For individuals battling decreased appetite and energy, unintentional weight loss and fatigue while undergoing cancer treatment, Hormel Foods has introduced the Hormel Vital Cuisine line of packaged ready-to-eat meals, nutrition shakes and whey protein powders.

For individuals battling decreased appetite and energy, unintentional weight loss and fatigue while undergoing cancer treatment, Hormel Foods has introduced the Hormel Vital Cuisine line of packaged ready-to-eat meals, nutrition shakes and whey protein powders. Designed specifically to support the unique nutritional needs of cancer patients, Hormel says the product portfolio is power-packed with nutrition, providing a much-needed balance of proteins, fats and carbohydrates.

Developed with support from experts at the Cancer Nutrition Consortium (CNC), an organisation comprised of nutritionists, dieticians, oncologists, and physicians from leading cancer research institutions, along with professional chefs, Hormel Vital Cuisine products are said to be nutrient- and protein-rich, a huge benefit to patients who often battle a drastic loss of energy and muscle mass while going through cancer treatment. To ensure great taste, Hormel says product developers also worked alongside some of the country's top chefs including chefs from the Culinary Institute of America.

"During product development, we brought together researchers in both the health and culinary fields to ensure a thorough understanding of a patient's needs during various phases of treatment," said Chet S. Rao, Ph.D., strategy and business manager for the specialty foods group at Hormel Foods. "This product line was thoughtfully crafted, since many product attributes such as flavor, texture, and ingredients are known to affect patients differently during their cancer journey, during which eating and drinking can be challenging."

"Most cancer patients are too tired to make a meal, or even shop for it. Yet the importance of good, consistent nutrition can't be overstated," said Dr. Bruce Moskowitz, physician and chairman of the CNC. "We saw an opportunity to address these issues. So in 2014, we embarked on this endeavor with Hormel Health Labs (HHL) to improve cancer patients' quality of life."

Hormel Vital Cuisine ready-to-eat meals feature three high-protein varieties—chicken and dumpling, vegetarian stew, and beef and mushroom gravy. Because of the company's efforts to eliminate unnecessary ingredients that are known to affect consumers' taste and smell sensitivities, they are claimed to be ideal, convenient solution for people undergoing cancer treatment.

"While the main goal of these products is to provide balanced nutrition and supply calories to cancer patients, we knew it was critical that the products also offer great flavor and smooth textures," said Ronald DeSantis, certified master chef and director of culinary excellence and quality assurance for Yale Dining. "The Hormel Vital Cuisine Ready to Eat meals are hearty, nutrient dense and flavorful options that you can easily prepare for your loved ones, while also feeling confident that they're getting what they need."