2020: ONCOFOOD

ONCOFOOD

New nutritional solutions for oncology patients

According to the World Health Organization, approximately 7.1 million patients were diagnosed with cancer in Europe in 2016.

One of the major challenges in cancer treatment is preventing or alleviating malnutrition associated with treatment (e.g., loss of taste, bad taste in the mouth, metallic taste, oral ulcers, vomiting, loss of appetite). The current clinical nutrition market offers a variety of oral nutritional support products. However, these products do not address patients' enjoyment of food or dietary preferences, leading to a negative impact on their quality of life.

Our solution to the problem thanks to the project activities

The aim of the ONCOFOOD project is to design and develop new innovative food solutions targeted at oncology patients, taking into account not only their nutritional requirements but also sensory changes, promoting the pleasure of eating and preventing malnutrition.

Research conducted with cancer patients, their families, and doctors and nurses supporting them will allow for the development of a range of nutritional solutions aimed at addressing the changes in taste and smell experienced by patients.

Additionally, the project will utilize innovative technological solutions, such as a 3D printer, to create new solutions for patients who experience swallowing difficulties due to treatment. A wide range of 3D-printed meals and snacks will be created.

Expected results

• A unique and innovative range of high-quality food products not currently available on the market, targeted at cancer patients, taking into account their nutritional and sensory requirements.
• Broad impact not only on business value creation, but also on society and the entire EITFood community.
• Developing and testing a range of food solutions aimed at changing taste and smell with patients (soups, pouch-based purees, fruit and vegetable drinks, dairy desserts, and condiments). Of these, at least two will be selected for market launch.

Partners: AZTI, Maspex, Fruktus Agros Nova, Ekoland, University of Reading, University of Warsaw, NaturalMachines
Funds: EIT Food
Project duration: 2020 – 2021