Hormel Foods Corp. unveiled a new product line this week designed specifically for cancer patients.

For individuals battling decreased appetite and energy, unintentional weight loss and fatigue while undergoing cancer treatment, Hormel Foods introduced the Hormel Vital Cuisine line of packaged ready-to-eat meals, nutrition shakes and whey protein powders. Designed specifically to support the unique nutritional needs of cancer patients, the product portfolio is power-packed with nutrition, providing a much-needed balance of proteins, fats and carbohydrates.

“During product development, we brought together researchers in both the health and culinary fields to ensure a thorough understanding of a patient’s needs during various phases of treatment,” said Chet S. Rao, Ph.D., strategy and business manager for the specialty foods group at Hormel Foods, in a press release. “This product line was thoughtfully crafted, since many product attributes such as flavor, texture, and ingredients are known to affect patients differently during their cancer journey, during which eating and drinking can be challenging.”

Developed with support from experts at the Cancer Nutrition Consortium (CNC), an organization comprised of nutritionists, dietitians, oncologists, and physicians from leading cancer research institutions, along with professional chefs, Hormel Vital Cuisine products are nutrient- and protein-rich, a huge benefit to patients who often battle a drastic loss of energy and muscle mass while going through cancer treatment. To ensure great taste, product developers also worked alongside some of the country’s top chefs including chefs from the Culinary Institute of America.

The Hormel Vital Cuisine Ready to Eat product line is just the latest innovative addition to the already strong lineup, which includes Protein Nutrition Shakes and 100 percent Whey Protein Drink Mix.

“Most cancer patients are too tired to make a meal, or even shop for it. Yet the importance of good, consistent nutrition can’t be overstated,” said Dr. Bruce Moskowitz, physician and chairman of the CNC, in the release. “We saw an opportunity to address these issues. So in 2014, we embarked on this endeavor with Hormel Health Labs (HHL) to improve cancer patients’ quality of life.”

Hormel Vital Cuisine Ready to Eat Meals feature three high-protein varieties: chicken and dumpling, vegetarian stew, and beef and mushroom gravy. Because of the company’s efforts to eliminate unnecessary ingredients that are known to affect consumers’ taste and smell sensitivities, they are an ideal, convenient solution for people undergoing cancer treatment.

“While the main goal of these products is to provide balanced nutrition and supply calories to cancer patients, we knew it was critical that the products also offer great flavor and smooth textures,” said Ronald DeSantis, certified master chef and director of culinary excellence and quality assurance for Yale Dining, in the release. “The Hormel Vital Cuisine Ready to Eat meals are hearty, nutrient dense and flavorful options that you can easily prepare for your loved ones, while also feeling confident that they’re getting what they need.”

The Hormel Vital Cuisine Ready to Eat product line is just the latest addition to Hormel’s Home Care Nuitrition lineup, which includes Protein Nutrition Shakes and 100 percent Whey Protein Drink Mix. Now available for pre-order purchase at vitalcuisine.com, a portion of the proceeds from all product sales will benefit the CNC as it continues outreach and research to empower patients throughout their treatment.