Using Thickening Agents with Incorrect Knowledge is Dangerous! Use Them with the Right Knowledge!

This article introduces thickened foods.

We will explore why thickened foods are gaining attention and becoming necessary, so please read to the end. You might be surprised to find thickened foods closer to you than you think.

1. [Surprising!] Thickened Alcohol and Automatic Cooking Machines Exist!

1-1. Thickened Alcohol

Did you know that there is 'thickened sake' to fulfill the wish of those who have swallowing difficulties due to aging or illness but still want to enjoy alcohol as before?

The name of the thickened sake is "Totoro Sake Miyako".

The thickness is based on the "thin thickness" standard from the 2013 classification by the Japanese Society of Dysphagia Rehabilitation.

People may perceive the thickness differently, but even those with swallowing difficulties can enjoy alcohol as they used to. It's the perfect thickened sake for drink lovers.

You might wonder if it's okay for people without swallowing difficulties to drink it.
Don't worry. This thickened sake is delicious for those without swallowing difficulties as well.

Source: Kitamoto Honke Online Shop

Product URL: https://www.shop-tomio.com/view/item/000000000359

1-2. World's First! Thickened Automatic Cooking Machine

This thickened automatic cooking machine is a remarkable device that allows users to choose from three levels of thickness: "thin thickness," "medium thickness," and "thick thickness." It can cater to those who need thickened foods and those who don't, depending on their condition.

The thickened automatic cooking machine makes various beverages easily accessible to everyone. The number of regions adopting this machine is increasing, and we hope to see even more in the future.

2. Reasons for Adding Thickness to Food and Drinks

Why is it necessary to add thickness in the first place?

As introduced in

Aspiration refers to the condition where food or drink enters the trachea instead of the stomach due to impaired swallowing function.

There are different thickness levels and types, and for some people, adding thickness can increase the risk of aspiration. Therefore, it is essential to have the correct knowledge when adding thickness.

3. About the Types of Thickness

Thickness is categorized into three levels by the Japanese Society of Dysphagia Rehabilitation: "thin thickness," "medium thickness," and "thick thickness."

Thin thickness = similar to soup
Medium thickness = similar to tonkatsu sauce
Thick thickness = similar to ketchup

These are the general descriptions.

Thin thickness is said to be less noticeable compared to regular meals, making it easier to eat.

Medium thickness has a noticeable thickness that leaves mixing marks when stirred with a spoon. Many people use a thick straw instead of a thin one as it becomes harder to suck.

Thick thickness is targeted at those with severe swallowing disorders. It is said to feel more like eating than drinking.

4. Overlooked Cautions When Using Thickening Agents

4-1. Check if the Thickening Agent is Dissolved

As people become accustomed, a certain number of individuals tend to neglect the "checking process" to ensure the thickening agent is dissolved. If the thickening agent is not fully dissolved, the thickness will not be achieved.

Failing to achieve the desired thickness can lead to accidents where the substance gets stuck in the throat and cannot be swallowed. Make sure to double-check that the thickening agent is dissolved and the thickness is present.

4-2. The Amount of Thickening Agent Needed Varies by Product

The viscosity affected by the thickening agent varies by product. This means the required amount of thickening agent changes for each product.

Ensure to follow the appropriate amount of thickening agent indicated on the product to create thickened foods.

4-3. Consult Experts, Including Doctors, When Using Thick Thickness

As mentioned earlier, thick thickness feels more like "eating" than "drinking." It requires a significant amount of swallowing power. To put it dramatically, thick thickness has a strong viscosity that can adhere to the throat, potentially leading to choking.

If you are using thick thickness for the first time, do not rely solely on your judgment. Consult your doctor or follow their instructions to use it with the correct knowledge.

If you want to master adding thickness, consider referring to this document.

4-4. Do Not Use When Taking Medication

Remember that thickening agents are primarily "food" products.

If you experience difficulty swallowing medication, do not use thickening agents based on your judgment. Consult your doctor or other experts before using them.

This is because using thickening agents with certain medications can reduce their effectiveness.

5. In Conclusion

What did you think of the points regarding thickened foods in this article?

If you're curious about the types of thickened foods available, please check out

Let's live with the correct knowledge, use thickening agents, and engage with thickened foods in our daily lives.