Berkshire couple launch frozen supplements brand close to their hearts
A Berkshire family business has launched the UK’s first frozen nutritional supplement, created after they saw their father struggle to eat during his treatment for cancer.
icesupp is a range of 100 per cent plant-based frozen supplements served as ice lollies to provide an easy-to-consume source of nutrition.
Amy Smith and her partner Robert Upton got the idea as they were frustrated with the lack of options for Amy’s father Ray when he struggled to build and maintain his weight during bowel cancer treatment.
Managing a conventional diet was very difficult, and the nutritional supplements available on prescription were unpalatable – too thick and sickly.
However, Ray did discover that ice lollies were soothing and easier to consume.
“The ice lollies dad was having were just filled with sugar and water, and didn’t provide the nutrition and quality calories that he needed to keep his weight and strength up,” said former dance teacher Amy.
“The idea for icesupp was born, and it became our mission to create something that would combine the nutritional elements of a supplement shake with the more palatable form of a soothing iced refreshment.
“Our goal is to help families like ours who have experienced the devastating effects of dramatic weight loss and malnutrition.”
Following two funding rounds, Amy and Rob teamed up with the food science department at Reading University and a team of specialist advisors including top dietitians, an oncologist and a GP.
Together they formulated their first lollies, which come in two flavours – mango & passionfruit and mixed berries.
Each 86ml supplement pouch contains 5g of protein, 2.5g of fibre and 150 calories - helping those who are struggling to eat build strength and energy.
They’re available on Amazon or icesupp’s own site and shipped in ambient liquid form to be frozen at home.
Dietitian Corrine Toyn added: “Malnutrition can be caused by range of factors.
“In Ray’s case, it was the side effects of the illness and his treatment, which is very common.
“Oral nutrition supplements have been part of the solution to malnutrition for a while, as long as patients find them palatable and are compliant, but the majority of the ‘ready to drink’ supplements are highly concentrated with a thick consistency that can be difficult to consume.
“Improving the flavour, mouthfeel and variety is vital to prevent patient’s taste fatigue, provide choice and ultimately improve their quality of life.
“icesupp is such a brilliant idea, created with love and expertise to respond to a real problem.”
