If you’re looking for the best thickener powders for dysphagia, I recommend options like Thick-It and Clear DysphagiAide, which are safe, easy to use, and reliable. These products are designed to thicken liquids quickly without affecting taste or appearance, and many meet industry standards for safety and dietary needs. They come in various forms like powders, gels, and pre-measured packets. Keep reading to discover more top choices tailored for safe swallowing.
Key Takeaways
- Look for odorless, flavorless, and clump-free formulas that meet IDDSI standards for safe swallowing.
- Choose products with versatile consistency options, such as nectar and honey textures, suitable for various liquids.
- Prioritize high-quality, dietary-compatible options—gluten-free, sugar-free, vegan, and Halal—for safety and personalization.
- Opt for powders with quick dissolving capabilities, minimal preparation steps, and tools for precise measurement.
- Consider packaging size, shelf life, and storage ease to ensure long-term safety and cost-effective use.
Clear DysphagiAide Thickener Powder, 180 Servings
Are you looking for a reliable thickening agent that’s easy to use and produces consistent results? Clear DysphagiAide Thickener Powder is exactly that. It’s odorless, flavorless, and clump-free, making it perfect for those with swallowing difficulties. You can quickly thicken hot or cold liquids like juice, coffee, or even wine, with results in just 4-10 minutes. It’s designed to meet IDDSI standards, offering nectar and honey consistency options. Plus, it’s gluten-free, sugar-free, and suitable for various dietary needs. I find it convenient to prepare in advance and store, providing peace of mind and safer swallowing with minimal effort.
Best For: individuals with swallowing difficulties, such as dysphagia patients, who need a safe, easy-to-use thickening agent for liquids and foods.
Pros:
- Odorless, flavorless, and clump-free, ensuring no change in taste or appearance
- Rapid thickening within 4-10 minutes for hot and cold beverages
- Compatible with a variety of liquids and dietary restrictions, including gluten-free and sugar-free options
Cons:
- Requires thorough stirring or shaking to prevent clumping during preparation
- Not suitable for children under three years old
- May need to be prepared in advance and stored, which requires some planning
Thick-It Original Food & Beverage Thickener (2 Pack)
The Thick-It Original Food & Beverage Thickener (2 Pack) is an ideal choice for individuals with dysphagia who need a reliable, easy-to-use thickening solution. It’s a flavorless, cornstarch-based powder that dissolves instantly in hot or cold foods and drinks like coffee, soup, or iced tea. The two 36 oz canisters provide plenty of supply, and the formula is gluten-free, fat-free, low-calorie, and kosher Pareve. Users find it effective at thickening liquids uniformly without altering taste. Proper mixing is essential for safety, but overall, it’s a trusted, versatile product recommended by healthcare professionals for over 30 years.
Best For: individuals with dysphagia or swallowing difficulties seeking a safe, reliable, and tasteless thickening agent for liquids and foods.
Pros:
- Easy to dissolve instantly in hot or cold foods and beverages without altering taste
- Gluten-free, fat-free, low-calorie, and kosher Pareve, making it suitable for various dietary needs
- Effective at providing consistent thickness, enhancing safety during swallowing
Cons:
- Proper mixing is vital; improper preparation can increase choking risk or lead to overly thick textures
- Some users experience settling or separation, requiring stirring before consumption
- Thickness level varies with amount used and temperature, potentially requiring adjustments for desired consistency
Thick-It Original Food & Beverage Thickener
Thick-It Original Food & Beverage Thickener stands out as an ideal choice for individuals with dysphagia who need a reliable, flavorless thickening solution. It’s a cornstarch-based powder that dissolves instantly in hot or cold foods and drinks, making it easy to use. It doesn’t change the taste or appearance of your meals, ensuring a seamless experience. Recommended by healthcare professionals for over 30 years, it’s versatile enough for liquids like coffee, juice, and soup, as well as sauces. Its consistent results help prevent choking, improve safety, and support hydration. I find it simple to incorporate, and it offers dependable thickening for a safer, more comfortable swallowing experience.
Best For: individuals with dysphagia seeking a safe, flavorless thickening solution for a variety of hot and cold foods and beverages.
Pros:
- Dissolves instantly without clumping or gritty residues, ensuring easy use.
- Does not alter the appearance or taste of foods and drinks, maintaining original flavor and presentation.
- Versatile and effective for thickening liquids like juice, coffee, soups, and sauces, enhancing safety during swallowing.
Cons:
- Some users may need to use larger quantities for certain liquids like juice, which can increase costs.
- Proper mixing is essential; incorrect usage may result in inadequate thickening.
- Occasionally considered more expensive or requiring more product compared to alternatives.
Clear DysphagiAide Thickener Powder for Liquids and Foods (19.75 oz jar)
If you’re managing dysphagia and need a reliable thickening solution, Clear DysphagiAide Thickener Powder is an excellent choice. It’s an instant, multi-purpose thickener that works with liquids and foods, providing safe swallowing options. You can easily achieve nectar or honey consistency by adding one or two scoops, respectively. The powder is odorless, flavorless, and clear, ensuring it won’t alter the taste or appearance of your beverages and meals. It thickens quickly with hot or cold liquids and stays stable over time. Made with high-quality, non-GMO ingredients, it’s gluten-free, sugar-free, and suitable for diverse dietary needs, offering around 400 servings in a 19.75 oz jar.
Best For: individuals with swallowing difficulties (dysphagia) seeking a safe, easy-to-use thickening solution for liquids and foods.
Pros:
- Instant and effective thickening with hot or cold liquids, ensuring quick preparation.
- Odorless, flavorless, and clear, maintaining the original taste and appearance of beverages and foods.
- Made with high-quality, non-GMO, gluten-free, sugar-free, and lactose-free ingredients suitable for diverse dietary needs.
Cons:
- Not intended for children under 3 years old.
- Requires measuring scoops for precise consistency, which may be inconvenient for some users.
- Limited to thickening liquids and foods; not suitable for other dietary or medical purposes beyond dysphagia management.
Clear DysphagiAide Thickener Powder for Dysphagia, 180 Servings
Clear DysphagiAide Thickener Powder is an excellent choice for individuals with swallowing difficulties who need a safe, reliable way to improve liquid consistency. With 180 servings, it offers long-lasting value and convenience. It’s odorless, flavorless, and clump-free, making it suitable for a variety of hot and cold beverages like water, juice, coffee, and wine. It thickens liquids quickly, within 4-10 minutes, to nectar or honey consistency. Easy to prepare, it mixes thoroughly without altering taste or appearance. This product enhances safety during swallowing, boosts confidence, and supports dietary needs for those managing dysphagia, whether short-term or long-term.
Best For: individuals with swallowing difficulties (dysphagia) seeking a safe, effective, and flavorless thickening solution for hot and cold beverages.
Pros:
- Odorless, flavorless, and clear, maintaining the natural appearance and taste of drinks
- Rapidly thickens liquids within 4-10 minutes, offering convenience and quick preparation
- Clump-free and easy to mix thoroughly with minimal effort, ensuring consistent results
Cons:
- Requires vigorous stirring or use of a frother for optimal thickening and smooth texture
- Not suitable for children under three years old
- Needs proper dry mixing before adding liquids to prevent clumping
Thick-It Original Food Beverage Thickener Canister, 36 Oz
Designed specifically for individuals with swallowing difficulties, the Thick-It Original Food and Beverage Thickener in the convenient 36 oz canister offers a safe and effective way to improve swallowing safety. This cornstarch-based, flavorless powder dissolves instantly and works well with hot or cold foods and drinks. It’s gentle, easily digestible, and maintains a neutral taste, making it versatile for everyday use. Suitable for water, coffee, soup, and iced tea, it provides a smooth, clump-free consistency. Trusted by healthcare professionals for over 30 years, it helps prevent choking and aspiration, enhancing safety and confidence for users and caregivers alike.
Best For: individuals with swallowing difficulties (dysphagia), caregivers, and healthcare providers seeking a safe, reliable thickening agent for hot or cold foods and beverages.
Pros:
- Dissolves instantly and maintains a smooth, clump-free consistency
- Flavorless, neutral taste suitable for a variety of foods and drinks
- Gluten-free, fat-free, low-calorie, and Kosher pareve, making it diet-friendly and accessible
Cons:
- Cannot be returned if unopened due to food safety policies
- May require careful measurement to achieve desired thickness levels
- Not a cure for underlying medical conditions; used as a safety aid only
Thick-It Original Food & Beverage Thickener
Thick-It Original Food & Beverage Thickener stands out as an ideal choice for individuals with dysphagia who need a reliable, tasteless thickening agent. It’s a cornstarch-based powder that dissolves instantly in hot or cold foods and drinks, ensuring safe swallowing without altering taste or appearance. Approved by healthcare professionals for over 30 years, it’s versatile enough for liquids like juice, coffee, and soups, as well as sauces and gravies. Easy to mix and clump-free, it provides consistent results, helping prevent choking and improve safety during meals. Its flavor neutrality and ease of use make it a trusted option for managing dysphagia effectively.
Best For: individuals with dysphagia seeking a safe, tasteless thickening agent to improve swallowing safety during meals.
Pros:
- Dissolves instantly in hot or cold foods and beverages without clumping or altering taste.
- Gluten-free, kosher parve, and suitable for a variety of liquids and recipes.
- Provides consistent thickening results, enhancing safety and confidence during meals.
Cons:
- May require a larger quantity to thicken certain liquids like juice, which can be more costly.
- Some users find it less convenient compared to alternative thickeners with easier mixing mechanisms.
- Proper instructions are essential; improper use can lead to unsatisfactory thickening results.
SimplyThick EasyMix Gel Thickener (200 Pack)
If you’re looking for a reliable and convenient thickener for those with swallowing difficulties, SimplyThick EasyMix Gel Thickener (200 Pack) stands out as an excellent choice. Each packet is pre-measured at 6 grams, designed to thicken 4 ounces of liquid to IDDSI Level 2, or nectar consistency. The gel formula thickens drinks in just 30 seconds, with no clumping, foaming, or mess—even with carbonated beverages. It’s easy to prepare and maintains its consistency over time, making it perfect for on-the-go use or long-term care. Safe, allergen-free, and compliant with standards, it offers a dependable solution for managing dysphagia safely and effectively.
Best For: individuals with swallowing difficulties, such as dysphagia, who need a quick, reliable, and easy-to-use thickening solution for beverages and foods.
Pros:
- Thickens liquids to IDDSI Level 2 (nectar consistency) within 30 seconds, ensuring rapid preparation.
- Does not clump, foam, or create messes, even with carbonated drinks, making it user-friendly and versatile.
- Maintains its consistency over time, allowing for advance preparation and long-term storage without altering taste or quality.
Cons:
- The cost per packet may be higher compared to bulk powder thickeners, impacting overall expense.
- Some users have reported limited shelf life or expiration issues when purchasing in bulk; it’s important to verify expiration dates.
- Requires individual packets for each use, which might be less economical than larger, reusable containers for frequent daily use.
Clear DysphagiAide Thickener Powder for Liquids and Foods
For individuals with swallowing difficulties, Clear DysphagiAide Thickener Powder offers a safe and effective way to manage dysphagia by quickly thickening liquids and foods without altering their taste or appearance. It provides honey and nectar thickness levels, making it versatile for different needs. Just one scoop creates nectar consistency, while two scoops achieve honey thickness. The powder works instantly with hot or cold liquids and remains clear, odorless, and flavorless. Made from high-quality, non-GMO ingredients, it’s gluten-free, sugar-free, and suitable for a variety of dietary requirements. With approximately 400 servings per jar, it’s a reliable long-term solution for caregivers and users alike.
Best For: individuals with swallowing difficulties (dysphagia) requiring safe, easy-to-prepare thickening solutions for liquids and foods.
Pros:
- Instantly thickens liquids and foods with hot or cold temperatures
- Odorless, flavorless, and clear, maintaining original taste and appearance
- Gluten-free, sugar-free, lactose-free, and made from non-GMO ingredients
Cons:
- Not suitable for children under 3 years old
- Requires precise measurement for desired consistency (one or two scoops)
- May clump if not mixed properly or added too quickly
Thick-It Clear Advantage Food & Beverage Thickener Powder
This xanthan-based thickener powder is an excellent choice for anyone managing dysphagia, as it provides a clear, flavorless, and stable solution that maintains consistent viscosity across different foods and drinks. It thickens quickly in hot or cold liquids without altering taste or appearance and resists separation or gel formation. Unlike starch-based thickeners, it doesn’t thicken over time, offering flexible preparation. Easy to dissolve with a whisk, it’s suitable for thickening soups, sauces, and beverages. Certified allergen-free, Kosher Pareve, and Halal, it’s a reliable, safe option for both adults and children with swallowing challenges.
Best For: individuals with dysphagia or swallowing difficulties seeking a clear, stable, and easy-to-use thickener for a variety of foods and beverages.
Pros:
- Provides a consistent, stable viscosity across different temperatures and food types
- Flavorless and clear, maintaining the original taste and appearance of foods and drinks
- Does not thicken over time, allowing flexible preparation and storage
Cons:
- Can be more expensive per quantity compared to cornstarch or liquid thickeners
- May require larger amounts to achieve desired thickness, increasing usage costs
- Mixing can sometimes result in lumps if not stirred thoroughly
Clear DysphagiaAide Thickener Packets, 24 Count, Level 2-Nectar
The Clear DysphagiaAide Thickener Packets, 24 Count, Level 2-Nectar are an excellent choice for individuals with swallowing difficulties who need a portable and easy-to-use thickening solution. These pre-measured packets simplify thickening beverages like water, juice, coffee, and wine, transforming them into nectar-thick consistency within minutes. They are odorless, flavorless, and clump-free when stirred properly, making them comfortable to swallow. Their convenient packaging suits travel and on-the-go use, ensuring consistent results without mess. While effective, users should stir vigorously to prevent clumping and be mindful that maltodextrin-based thickeners may impact blood sugar levels.
Best For: individuals with swallowing difficulties who need a portable, easy-to-use thickening solution for beverages and foods on the go.
Pros:
- Odorless, flavorless, and clump-free when stirred properly, ensuring comfortable swallowing.
- Pre-measured packets provide convenience and consistent results, ideal for travel and busy lifestyles.
- Rapidly thickens liquids to a nectar-like consistency within minutes, supporting quick and reliable dysphagia management.
Cons:
- Clumping may occur if not stirred vigorously, requiring careful preparation.
- Maltodextrin content can raise blood sugar levels, which may be unsuitable for diabetics.
- Small packet size (e.g., 4 oz) may lead to higher costs and inconvenience for larger servings.
Thick-It Original Food & Beverage Thickener (10 oz Canister)
If you’re looking for a reliable thickening agent that’s easy to use and highly effective, the Thick-It Original Food & Beverage Thickener (10 oz Canister) is an excellent choice. This flavorless, concentrated powder dissolves instantly in hot or cold foods and drinks, allowing you to quickly achieve the desired consistency without changing taste or appearance. It’s recommended by healthcare professionals since 1987 and is suitable for various dietary needs—gluten-free, fat-free, low-calorie, and Kosher pareve. Users love its efficiency, quick mixing, and reliable results, making mealtime safer and easier for those with swallowing difficulties.
Best For: individuals with dysphagia or swallowing difficulties seeking a quick, easy, and tasteless thickening solution for hot or cold foods and beverages.
Pros:
- Dissolves instantly without altering the taste or appearance of foods and drinks
- Highly concentrated, requiring less product for effective thickening
- Recommended by healthcare professionals and suitable for various dietary needs, including gluten-free and Kosher diets
Cons:
- Some users have experienced delays or issues with product delivery or packaging integrity
- Caution advised when mixing with certain flavored beverages, such as strawberry milk, to avoid undesirable taste interactions
- May require careful storage to maintain product quality over time
Thick-It Original Food & Beverage Thickener
When managing dysphagia, choosing a thickener that dissolves instantly and maintains neutral flavor can make a significant difference. I recommend Thick-It Original Food & Beverage Thickener because it’s a proven, cornstarch-based powder that works quickly in both hot and cold liquids. It’s flavorless, so it won’t alter taste, and it’s easy to mix—just add, shake, and serve. With over 30 years of professional endorsement, this product offers reliable thickening for various foods and drinks. Its large 36 oz canister ensures you always have enough on hand. Many users find it effective, versatile, and gentle on digestion, making it a top choice for safety and convenience.
Best For: individuals with dysphagia or swallowing difficulties seeking a flavorless, quick-dissolving thickener for various foods and beverages.
Pros:
- Dissolves instantly in hot or cold liquids without altering taste
- Easy to mix by shaking or blending, ensuring smooth consistency
- Gentle on digestion and suitable for all age groups, including children and the elderly
Cons:
- Can form lumps if not mixed properly, especially in cold liquids
- Scoop size may be inconvenient for larger hands or frequent use
- Requires proper storage to prevent clumping over time
SimplyThick EasyMix Gel Thickener for Dysphagia, 302 Servings
Designed specifically for individuals with dysphagia, SimplyThick EasyMix Gel Thickener offers a convenient and reliable way to achieve the perfect liquid consistency. With 302 servings in a large 55 fl oz bottle, it’s easy to prepare and versatile, fitting various thickness levels from slightly thick to pudding-like. It thickens hot or cold beverages in just 30 seconds without altering taste or creating foam. Its formulation prevents clumping and guarantees safe, mess-free mixing. Certified to IDDSI standards, it’s suitable for diverse diets—Kosher, Halal, vegan, and gluten-free—making it a safe, effective choice for consistent, long-term use.
Best For: individuals with dysphagia or swallowing disorders seeking a reliable, easy-to-use thickening agent for liquids.
Pros:
- Fast-acting, thickens beverages within 30 seconds without altering taste or creating foam.
- Prevents clumping and mess during mixing, ensuring safety and convenience.
- Long shelf life of 12 months, stable for long-term use and can be prepared in advance.
Cons:
- Requires a pump for precise measurement, which may be inconvenient for some users.
- Limited to liquid thickening, not suitable for other food textures.
- Might be less suitable for those preferring powder thickeners or different consistencies.
Thick-It Original Food & Beverage Thickener (2 Pack)
The Thick-It Original Food & Beverage Thickener (2 Pack) is an ideal choice for caregivers and individuals managing dysphagia who need a reliable, easy-to-use thickening solution. It’s a cornstarch-based, flavorless powder that dissolves instantly in hot or cold foods and drinks, including coffee, soup, and iced tea. This gluten-free, low-calorie formula is recommended by healthcare professionals and doesn’t alter taste. The two 36 oz canisters provide ample supply, and its quick, consistent thickening makes it effective and versatile. Proper mixing is essential for safe swallowing, and users appreciate its effectiveness, though stirring after sitting helps maintain the right texture.
Best For: individuals with dysphagia or swallowing difficulties, caregivers seeking a reliable thickening agent, and pet owners managing pets with swallowing issues.
Pros:
- Instant, consistent thickening in hot or cold foods and beverages.
- Flavorless and does not alter taste, suitable for a variety of diets.
- Gluten-free, low-calorie, and recommended by healthcare professionals.
Cons:
- May require stirring after sitting to maintain desired consistency.
- Thicker texture can become pudding-like if not consumed promptly.
- Some users experience settling issues or delivery delays.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Thickener Powder for Dysphagia
When selecting a thickener powder for dysphagia, I consider factors like consistency options, ease of preparation, and how well it mixes without clumping. I also look at dietary needs, shelf life, and packaging to guarantee it fits my or my patient’s lifestyle. These elements help me choose the best product for safe, effective swallowing support.
Consistency Options Available
Choosing the right thickener powder depends on the specific consistency you need for safe swallowing. These powders come in various levels, like nectar, honey, pudding, or syrup, to match individual needs. You can often adjust the amount of powder to achieve the perfect texture, whether you want a more fluid or thicker result. Some thickeners produce stable, gel-like textures, while others create more pudding-like consistencies, depending on their formulation. The thickening process time varies; some powders work quickly within minutes, offering convenience, while others take longer. Temperature also plays a role—certain powders perform better in hot or cold liquids, helping maintain the desired consistency. Considering these options guarantees you select the most suitable thickener for safe and comfortable swallowing.
Ease of Preparation
Selecting a thickener powder that dissolves quickly and smoothly can make meal prep much easier and less frustrating. Products that can be mixed in dry form before adding liquids help prevent lumps, ensuring a consistent texture. Thickening agents that work well with both hot and cold liquids give you greater flexibility, simplifying the process regardless of the temperature. The ability to easily adjust the amount of powder helps you control the desired consistency precisely, saving time and effort. Additionally, thickeners that require minimal stirring or can be prepared in advance reduce the workload, especially in busy caregiving environments. Overall, choosing a thickener with straightforward preparation features makes feeding safer and less stressful for everyone involved.
Dietary Compatibility
The dietary compatibility of a thickener powder is crucial to guarantee it meets individual health needs and preferences. I look for options that are gluten-free, sugar-free, lactose-free, or low-carb, depending on dietary restrictions. It’s also important to verify that the product meets standards like IDDSI, ensuring safe and appropriate consistency levels for dysphagia management. I consider whether the thickener works well with various foods and drinks, hot or cold, so it fits into my regular diet. Checking ingredients for non-GMO status and absence of common allergens helps me feel confident in its safety. Ultimately, I pay attention to the nutritional profile, especially if I need a low-calorie or low-carb option for long-term use, supporting my overall health and dietary goals.
Clumping and Mixing Quality
Ensuring a smooth, lump-free consistency in thickened liquids depends heavily on proper mixing techniques. I always recommend dry blending the powder first before adding liquids, which helps prevent clumping. Vigorous stirring or using a frother can markedly improve dissolution and reduce lumps. Thicker liquids or powders that absorb water slowly are more prone to clumping if not stirred thoroughly. It’s important to stir continuously during preparation and avoid letting the mixture sit undisturbed, as powders can settle or form clumps over time. Gel thickeners generally cause fewer clumping issues, but they still need proper dispensing and mixing to achieve a smooth texture. Paying close attention to these factors ensures a more consistent, safe swallowing experience for dysphagia patients.
Shelf Life and Packaging
When choosing a thickener powder for dysphagia, paying attention to shelf life and packaging is vital to guarantee safety and effectiveness. I always check the expiration date to ensure the product remains safe and effective over time, especially for long-term use. Packaging should be resealable or airtight to maintain freshness and prevent moisture or contamination. I consider the size of the package; smaller packets are portable, while larger jars suit bulk storage. Sturdy, secure packaging reduces the risk of spills, damage, or product loss during handling. Clear labeling of expiration dates helps me use the product before it expires, avoiding compromised safety. Overall, thoughtful packaging ensures the powder stays effective and safe until the last use.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Thickener Powders Suitable for All Age Groups With Dysphagia?
You’re wondering if thickener powders suit all age groups with dysphagia. I’ve found they’re generally safe for most ages, from children to seniors, but it’s vital to take individual needs into account. For infants or those with specific medical conditions, consult a healthcare professional first. I recommend always following the product guidelines and seeking advice to guarantee safety and effectiveness for each age group.
Can Thickener Powders Be Used With Carbonated Beverages Safely?
It’s interesting how many people wonder if thickener powders are safe with carbonated drinks. I’ve found that using thickener powders with soda or fizzy beverages can be tricky because the carbonation causes the liquid to foam and potentially overflow. While some thickeners might work, I recommend consulting a healthcare professional before trying, as safety varies depending on the product and individual needs.
How Do I Store Thickener Powders to Maintain Their Effectiveness?
You’re wondering how to store thickener powders to keep them effective. I recommend keeping them in a cool, dry place away from moisture and direct sunlight. Always use airtight containers to prevent clumping and contamination. Check expiration dates regularly, and avoid storing near strong odors, which can affect flavor and safety. Proper storage guarantees the powders remain safe and effective when you need them.
Are Thickener Powders Gluten-Free and Allergen-Free Options Available?
Thinking about thickener powders is like searching for a needle in a haystack, especially when it comes to gluten-free and allergen-free options. I’ve found that many brands now cater to those with sensitivities, offering products free from common allergens like gluten, dairy, and soy. Always check labels carefully, but rest assured, there are safe, effective thickener powders out there that meet your dietary needs without compromising safety or quality.
How Quickly Do Thickener Powders Change the Texture of Liquids?
You’re wondering how fast thickener powders alter the texture of liquids. I’ve found that most powders start thickening almost immediately upon mixing, usually within a minute or two. The exact time depends on the type and amount used, but I recommend stirring thoroughly and letting it sit briefly to guarantee the desired consistency. This quick change helps manage swallowing safety effectively, especially in critical situations.
Conclusion
Choosing the right thickener powder can truly improve your or your loved one’s quality of life. I get it—navigating options might seem overwhelming, but focusing on safety, taste, and ease of use makes it simpler. Remember, the best thickener is the one you’ll consistently use and trust. Don’t let uncertainty hold you back—finding a reliable, effective option can bring comfort and confidence to every meal.
