DRINKING CHOCOLATE POWDER

DRINKING CHOCOLATE POWDER

PRIMARY USES

1. Nutritional Supplementation for Patients with Poor Appetite or Increased Caloric Needs
Primary Use: Provides a palatable, energy-dense beverage base that can be mixed with full-cream milk to deliver a concentrated source of calories (approximately 168 kcal per serving when prepared with semi-skimmed milk), making it suitable for patients requiring nutritional supplementation during recovery or when appetite is poor . The 500g tub provides approximately 27-34 servings, allowing for regular use in clinical or home settings.

How it helps: For the dietitian and clinician, the powder’s nutritional profile (404 kcal per 100g, with 76g carbohydrates and 6.4g protein) can be leveraged to boost patients’ daily caloric and protein intake. The preparation with milk further enhances the nutritional value by adding protein, calcium, and additional calories. For patients with reduced appetite, the appealing chocolate flavour and comforting nature of the drink can encourage oral intake. Each serving (3 heaped teaspoons or 18g) delivers 168 kcal when prepared as directed.

2. Mood Enhancement and Sensory Comfort in Palliative and Supportive Care
Primary Use: The rich, smooth chocolate flavour and warming nature of the drink can provide sensory pleasure and emotional comfort, described as a “hug in a mug” that can lift spirits and offer a moment of normalcy and enjoyment for patients undergoing treatment or in palliative care .

How it helps: For the oncology dietitian and palliative care nurse, patients often experience taste alterations, low mood, and reduced appetite. The familiar, comforting taste of Cadbury chocolate—backed by nearly 200 years of heritage —can provide a simple, accessible source of pleasure and comfort. The caffeine-free nature of the formulation  makes it suitable for all patients, including those sensitive to stimulants, and allows for consumption at any time of day, including as a soothing bedtime beverage.

3. Hydration Support through Palatable Fluid Intake
Primary Use: The powder can be used to encourage fluid intake in patients who struggle to consume adequate fluids, by providing a more appealing alternative to plain water or other beverages .

How it helps: For the clinician, maintaining adequate hydration is essential for patient recovery and wellbeing. Patients who find plain fluids unpalatable or who have reduced thirst may be more willing to consume a flavoured, comforting beverage. The drink can be served hot or cold (as a milkshake) , offering versatility to suit patient preference and clinical need.

SECONDARY USES

1. Enhancing the Palatability of Oral Nutritional Supplements: A small amount of Drinking Chocolate powder can be stirred into unflavoured or mildly flavoured oral nutritional supplements (ONS) to improve their taste and increase acceptance in patients who find them unpalatable, helping to improve adherence to prescribed nutritional therapy.

2. A Soothing Bedtime Beverage for Improved Sleep Quality: The warm, comforting nature of the drink can be part of a relaxing evening ritual in a hospital or care setting, potentially aiding sleep quality for patients who experience anxiety or difficulty sleeping, without the stimulating effects of caffeine.

3. Source of Dietary Fibre for Digestive Health: The powder contains 9.3g of dietary fibre per 100g , providing approximately 1.7g of fibre per serving (18g). This can contribute to meeting daily fibre requirements and support digestive health in patients with reduced dietary intake.

4. Versatile Ingredient for Fortified Foods and Beverages: The powder can be added to porridge, yoghurt, puddings, or milkshakes to increase their calorie content and chocolate flavour, making it a useful culinary supplement for patients who need to boost their energy intake.

5. Ethically Sourced and Sustainable Indulgence: Made with 100% sustainably sourced cocoa through the Cocoa Life program and partnered with the Fairtrade Foundation , the product allows patients and healthcare facilities to support ethical and sustainable farming practices while providing a comforting treat.