Thickening carbonated beverages and nutrition supplements requires different techniques than thickening typical thin liquids. Based on testing conducted in our test kitchens using Thick-It® Clear Advantage® Powder (CAP), the procedures below reflect practical approaches you can try as you work toward reliable results.
These methods may not work in every setting. Always confirm thickness using IDDSI testing methods before serving, and expect variation based on product formulation, temperature, mixing technique, and equipment.
Carbonated Beverages: Approach and Suggested Method
Why It’s Different
Carbonation creates fizz and foam that can trap thickener at the surface, preventing even dispersion throughout the liquid. The goal is to allow some carbonation to release before combining the beverage with the thickener. This reduces the likelihood of persistent foam that interferes with accurate thickening.
During kitchen testing, gentle, deliberate mixing that encouraged partial release of carbonation produced the most consistent results.
Suggested Methods:
Mildly Thick, Level 2 (MT2) and Moderately Thick Level 3 (MO3)
- Measure 8 fl oz. of cold carbonated beverage into a glass.
- Measure 2 level scoops (for MT2) or 3 level scoops (for MO3) of CAP into a separate large glass.
- Stir the beverage gently for about 5 seconds and allow the fizz to subside.
- Slowly pour the beverage into the glass with CAP.
- Stir slowly for 45 seconds to combine.
- Let it stand for 5 minutes.
- Stir at least 10 seconds to redistribute any foam through the liquid.
- Test using the IDDSI Flow Test (and Fork Drip Test for MO3).
- Serve immediately. Do not serve with ice.
Notes for carbonated drinks
- Allowing some carbonation to escape before mixing reduces surface trapping of thickener and limits foam formation.
- Foam can mask true thickness because the thickener may adhere to and thicken the foam, while the remaining liquid remains thin. Further mixing will not distribute the thickener, and the beverage should not be served.
Nutrition Supplements: Approach and Suggested Method
Why This Is Different
Milk-based, soy-based, and higher-protein nutrition supplements often take longer to reach their target thickness and are more prone to clumping at higher IDDSI levels. While clumps may not hold their shape, they can obstruct syringes or narrow delivery tips and pose a swallowing safety risk. For this reason, the mixing technique is especially important.
Observed timing and behavior
- After mixing in the thickener:
- Slightly Thick (ST1) commonly requires about 15 minutes of standing to reach target thickness.
- Mildly Thick (MT2) and Moderately Thick (MO3) commonly require about 17 minutes of standing, with some products taking substantially longer (one product required 36 minutes in testing).
- Clumping was common at MT2 and MO3 which could interfere with delivery through syringes or straws as well as swallowing safety.
Suggested methods:
Slightly Thick, Level 1 (ST1)
- Measure 1 level scoop of CAP into a large glass.
- Add ¼ cup of supplement and stir with a fork for 30 seconds.
- Add remaining supplement and stir for 15 seconds.
- Let stand for 15 minutes.
- Stir and test using the IDDSI Flow Test. Allow additional time if needed.
Mildly Thick, Level 2 (MT2)
- Measure 2 level scoops of CAP into a large glass.
- Add ¼ cup of supplement and stir for 30 seconds.
- Add remaining supplement and stir for 15 seconds.
- Let stand for 15 minutes.
- Stir and test using the IDDSI Flow Test. Allow extra time if needed.
Moderately Thick, Level 3 (MO3)
- Measure 3 level scoops of CAP into a large glass.
- Add ¼ cup of supplement and stir for 30 seconds.
- Add remaining supplement and stir for 15 seconds.
- Let stand for 15 minutes.
- Stir and test using the IDDSI Flow Test and Fork Drip Test. Allow additional time if needed.
Technique to reduce clumping
- Start with a small portion of supplement, add to the thickener, and whisk or stir that portion thoroughly to disperse the powder. Then add the remainder of the supplement and mix. This approach reduced visible clumping during testing.
- Manual shaking did not significantly shorten thickening time, though it sometimes reduced clumps. The “start small, then add more” method produced the most consistent improvement.
Practical Tips and Variables
- Temperature: Cold and room temperature products behaved similarly in testing, but extreme temperatures can alter thickening time.
- Product formulation: Milk-based, soy-based, and high-protein formulas thicken at different rates; document product-specific behavior for consistent preparation.
- Clumps and delivery: Visible clumps may not hold form but can clog syringes or straws and impact swallowing safety; check delivery devices and strain if necessary.
- Timing: Kitchen testing showed longer times to reach target thickness than some general guidance; allow sufficient standing time and confirm with IDDSI testing.
Final reminder
Both carbonated beverages and nutrition supplements require tailored approaches when using thickeners. These procedures reflect best practices observed during kitchen testing and are intended as practical starting points.
Always confirm beverage thickness for the intended IDDSI level using IDDSI testing methods before serving. Documenting product-specific adjustments helps maintain consistent, safe preparation across settings.