WO2025196432A1

WO2025196432A1 - Food supplement

Info

Publication number: WO2025196432A1
Application number: PCT/GB2025/050576
Authority: WO
Inventors: Amy Smith; Robert UPTON
Original assignee: Icesupp Ltd
Current assignee: Icesupp Ltd
Priority date: 2024-03-19
Filing date: 2025-03-19
Publication date: 2025-09-25
Anticipated expiration: 2026-09-19
Also published as: GB2639620A; GB202403938D0

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a container containing a liquid food supplement, wherein the container containing the liquid food supplement can be placed in a domestic freezer in order to provide a frozen food supplement; and the use of a container containing a liquid food supplement to provide a frozen food supplement. The present disclosure further relates to a method of preparing a frozen food supplement, as well as a liquid food supplement, a chilled food supplement and a frozen food supplement.

Description

FOOD SUPPLEMENT BACKGROUND Many people struggle to maintain or gain weight. For example, cancer (and related treatments) can lead to severe dehydration, loss of appetite, nausea, difficulty in swallowing, extreme thirst, dry mouth and mouth ulcers. These can result in cancer patients being severely underweight, and struggling to maintain or gain weight both due to the illness itself and the treatment for the disease. Other illnesses and treatments can also result in difficulties in maintaining or gaining weight due to lack of appetite (particularly in children). Furthermore, people with certain mental health issues (e.g. eating disorders) may find it difficult to maintain or gain weight. Additionally, teething can result in children refusing food and so not maintaining or gaining weight as they should be doing. There are also some people who struggle to maintain or gain weight for no particular reason. Such people may use food supplements to help to maintain or gain weight. A food supplement may be defined as any food the purpose of which is to supplement the normal diet and which is a concentrated source of a vitamin or mineral or other substance with a nutritional or physiological effect, alone or in combination and is sold in dose form (see https://www.innovateukedge.ukri.org/about- us, for example). A wide range of nutrients and other ingredients might be present in food supplements. These can include - protein; - carbohydrates; - fats; - vitamins; - minerals; - amino acids; - essential fatty acids; - fibre; and/or - various plants and herbal extracts. Many current food supplements, however, are not enticing, because they have a sickly and thick consistency, which can result in gloopy, concentrated food supplements which are difficult to consume. Furthermore, they are often based on skimmed milk, which is not suitable or desirable for all consumers. As such, many consumers find them unappetising, and difficult or even impossible to use. Accordingly, there is a need for food supplements which are tasty, easy to consume and digest, and which support their users to maintain and build weight. SUMMARY In a first aspect, the present invention relates to a container containing a liquid food supplement, wherein the container containing the liquid food supplement can be placed in a domestic freezer in order to provide a frozen supplement. In a second aspect, the present invention relates to the use of a container containing a liquid food supplement to provide a frozen food supplement, wherein the use comprises placing the container containing a liquid food supplement in a domestic freezer. In a third aspect, the present invention relates to a method of preparing a frozen food supplement, the method comprising: - providing a sealed container containing a liquid food supplement; and - chilling the container until the food supplement is frozen. In a fourth aspect, the present invention relates to a composition, for example a food supplement (e.g. a liquid food supplement), comprising: a. from 2 g per 100 mL to 10 g per 100 mL protein; b. from 5 g per 100 mL to 15 g per 100 mL starch; and c. from 20 g per 100 mL to 50 g per 100 mL water. In a fifth aspect, the present invention relates to a chilled food supplement obtainable by chilling the liquid food supplement of the fourth aspect. In a sixth aspect, the present invention relates to a frozen food supplement obtainable by freezing the liquid food supplement of the fourth aspect. In a seventh aspect, the present invention relates to the use of the food supplement of the fourth, fifth or sixth aspect for maintaining or increasing body weight of a user, or a food supplement of the fourth, fifth or sixth aspect for use in maintaining or increasing body weight of a subject. DETAILED DESCRIPTION The present invention relates to food supplements which are enjoyable and easy to consume, as well as being nutritionally balanced and hydrating. A food supplement may be defined as “any food the purpose of which is to supplement the normal diet and which is a concentrated source of a vitamin or mineral or other substance with a nutritional or physiological effect, alone or in combination and is sold in dose form”. A wide range of nutrients and other ingredients might be present in food supplements. These can include - protein; - carbohydrates; - fats; - vitamins; - minerals; - amino acids; - essential fatty acids; - fibre; and/or - various plants and herbal extracts. Preferably, a food supplement comprises protein and carbohydrates (e.g. a food supplement is a composition comprising protein, carbohydrates and one or more of fats, vitamins, minerals, amino acids, essential fatty acids, fibre, and/or various plants and herbal extracts). A food supplement which can be easily and conveniently frozen to provide a food supplement which has good mouthfeel/texture is enjoyable and easy to consume, as well as being soothing for consumers with painful mouths and/or throats. Some people may find it more convenient to purchase and store the food supplement at room temperature, and then freeze food supplement at home when required. Accordingly, in a first aspect, the present invention relates to a container containing a liquid food supplement, wherein the container containing the liquid food supplement can be placed in a domestic freezer in order to provide a frozen food supplement. In embodiments of the first aspect, the liquid food supplement comprises protein and carbohydrates. In embodiments of the first aspect, the liquid food supplement may be a liquid food supplement as described herein (for example a food supplement of the fourth aspect of the invention). The temperature inside a domestic freezer is typically from −25 °C to −18 °C. Thus, in embodiments of the first aspect, the container containing the liquid food supplement is placed in a freezer with an internal temperature of from −25 °C to −18 °C. In embodiments of the first aspect, the container containing a liquid food supplement is configured to be subjected to the internal temperatures typically found in domestic freezers, and to be readily opened by an end-user once the food supplement has been frozen. In embodiments of the first aspect, this may include shaping the container so that the frozen food supplement (e.g. the food supplement of the fourth aspect) can form an ice lolly, for example with a stick. Alternatively, the container may be the type of container that is used for ice cream or sorbet. In embodiments of the first aspect, the container is a tubular sachet that has been sealed at both ends, and which can be easily torn open. In embodiments of the first aspect, the container is a tubular sachet with a resealable nozzle at one end. In embodiments of the first aspect, the frozen food supplement comprises a dispersion of ice crystals distributed in a freeze-concentrated liquid phase. In embodiments of the first aspect, the frozen food supplement comprises a dispersion of ice crystals distributed randomly in a freeze-concentrated liquid phase. In embodiments of the first aspect, the frozen food supplement is homogeneous. In embodiments of the first aspect, the liquid and/or frozen food supplement has a good texture and/or mouthfeel. In embodiments of the first aspect, the frozen food supplement has a good texture and/or mouthfeel. In embodiments of the first aspect, the frozen food supplement is in the form of a sorbet, an iced smoothie or an ice lolly. In a second aspect, the present invention relates to a use of a container containing a liquid food supplement to provide a frozen food supplement, wherein the use comprises placing the container containing the liquid food supplement in a domestic freezer. In embodiments of the second aspect, the liquid food supplement comprises protein and carbohydrates. In embodiments of the second aspect, the liquid food supplement may be a liquid food supplement as described herein (for example a food supplement of the fourth aspect of the invention). The temperature inside a domestic freezer is typically from −25 °C to −18 °C. Thus, in embodiments of the second aspect, the container containing the liquid food supplement is placed in a freezer with an internal temperature of from −25 °C to −18 °C. In embodiments of the second aspect, the container containing a liquid food supplement is configured to be subjected to the internal temperatures typically found in domestic freezers, and to be readily opened by an end-user once the food supplement has been frozen. In embodiments of the first aspect, this may include shaping the container so that the frozen food supplement (e.g. the food supplement of the fourth aspect) can form an ice lolly, for example with a stick. Alternatively, the container may be the type of container that is used for ice cream or sorbet. In embodiments of the second aspect, the container is a tubular sachet that has been sealed at both ends, and which can be easily torn open. In embodiments of the second aspect, the container is a tubular sachet with a resealable nozzle at one end. In embodiments of the second aspect, the frozen food supplement comprises a dispersion of ice crystals distributed in a freeze-concentrated liquid phase. In embodiments of the second aspect, the frozen food supplement comprises a dispersion of ice crystals distributed randomly in a freeze-concentrated liquid phase. In embodiments of the second aspect, the frozen food supplement is homogeneous. In embodiments of the second aspect, the liquid and/or frozen food supplement has a good texture and/or mouthfeel. In embodiments of the second aspect, the frozen food supplement has a good texture and/or mouthfeel. In embodiments of the second aspect, the frozen food supplement is in the form of a sorbet, an iced smoothie or an ice lolly. In a third aspect, the present invention relates to a method of preparing a frozen food supplement, the method comprising: - providing a sealed container containing a liquid food supplement; and - chilling the container until the food supplement is frozen. In embodiments of the third aspect, the present invention relates to a method of preparing a frozen food supplement, the method comprising: - providing a sealed container containing a liquid food supplement; and - placing the container containing a liquid food supplement in a domestic freezer until the food supplement is frozen. In embodiments of the third aspect, the liquid food supplement comprises protein and carbohydrates. In embodiments of the third aspect, the liquid food supplement may be a liquid food supplement as described herein (for example a food supplement of the fourth aspect of the invention). The temperature inside a domestic freezer is typically from −25 °C to −18 °C. Thus, in embodiments of the third aspect, the container containing a liquid food supplement is placed in a freezer with an internal temperature of from −25 °C to −18 °C. In embodiments of the third aspect, the method only includes the steps of: - providing a sealed container containing a liquid food supplement; - placing the container containing a liquid food supplement in a domestic freezer until the food supplement is frozen; and - opening the container. In embodiments of the third aspect, the container containing a liquid food supplement is configured to be subjected to the internal temperatures typically found in domestic freezers, and to be readily opened by an end-user once the food supplement has been frozen. In embodiments of the third aspect, this may include shaping the container so that the frozen food supplement (e.g. the food supplement of the fourth aspect) can form an ice lolly, for example with a stick. Alternatively, the container may be the type of container that is used for ice cream or sorbet. In embodiments of the third aspect, the container is a tubular sachet that has been sealed at both ends, and which can be easily torn open. In embodiments of the third aspect, the container is a tubular sachet with a resealable nozzle at one end. In embodiments of the third aspect, the frozen food supplement comprises a dispersion of ice crystals distributed in a freeze-concentrated liquid phase. In embodiments of the third aspect, the frozen food supplement comprises a dispersion of ice crystals distributed randomly in a freeze-concentrated liquid phase. In embodiments of the third aspect, the frozen food supplement is homogeneous. In embodiments of the third aspect, the liquid and/or frozen food supplement has a good texture and/or mouthfeel. In embodiments of the third aspect, the frozen food supplement has a good texture and/or mouthfeel. In embodiments of the third aspect, the frozen food supplement is in the form of a sorbet, an iced smoothie or an ice lolly. In a fourth aspect, the present invention relates to a composition comprising: a. from 2 g per 100 mL to 10 g per 100 mL protein; b. from 5 g per 100 mL to 15 g per 100 mL starch; and c. from 20 g per 100 mL to 50 g per 100 mL water. In embodiments of the fourth aspect, the composition is a food supplement, as described herein. In embodiments of the fourth aspect, the composition is a liquid food supplement. In embodiments of the fourth aspect, the protein used in the composition (e.g. the liquid food supplement) is derived from a non-animal source. For example, the protein may be pea protein, rice protein, potato protein or derivatives thereof. In embodiments of the fourth aspect, the protein is pea protein. In embodiments of the fourth aspect, the composition (e.g. the liquid food supplement) comprises from 2 g per 100 mL to 8 g per 100 mL protein. In other embodiments of the fourth aspect, the composition (e.g. the liquid food supplement) comprises from 2 g per 100 mL to 6 g per 100 mL protein. In embodiments of the fourth aspect, the composition (e.g. the liquid food supplement) comprises from 3 g per 100 mL to 6 g per 100 mL protein. In embodiments of the fourth aspect, the composition (e.g. the liquid food supplement) comprises from 4 g per 100 mL to 6 g per 100 mL protein. In embodiments of the fourth aspect, the composition (e.g. the liquid food supplement) comprises around 5 g per 100 mL protein. In embodiments of the fourth aspect, the composition (e.g. the liquid food supplement) comprises from 2 g per 100 mL to 10 g per 100 mL pea protein. In embodiments of the fourth aspect, the composition (e.g. the liquid food supplement) comprises from 2 g per 100 mL to 8 g per 100 mL pea protein. In embodiments of the fourth aspect, the composition (e.g. the liquid food supplement) comprises from 2 g per 100 mL to 6 g per 100 mL pea protein. In embodiments of the fourth aspect, the composition (e.g. the liquid food supplement) comprises from 3 g per 100 mL to 6 g per 100 mL pea protein. In embodiments of the fourth aspect, the composition (e.g. the liquid food supplement) comprises from 4 g per 100 mL to 6 g per 100 mL pea protein. In embodiments of the fourth aspect, the composition (e.g. the liquid food supplement) comprises around 5 g per 100 mL pea protein. In embodiments of the fourth aspect, the starch used in the composition (e.g. the liquid food supplement) is modified starch. In embodiments of the fourth aspect, the starch used in the composition (e.g. the liquid food supplement) is Tapioca starch. In embodiments of the fourth aspect, the starch used in the composition (e.g. the liquid food supplement) is modified Tapioca starch. For example, the starch (e.g. the Tapioca starch) may have been extracted and physically modified using time, temperature, and pressure to mimic the functionality and characteristics of sugar or fat. For example, the starch (e.g. Tapioca starch) used in the fourth aspect of the invention may be modified by reducing the polymer chain length, which may result in improved solubility and low viscosity. This allows the modified starch to provide bulk, hold moisture and give texture, without creating too much viscosity on heating, and so mimic the function of sugar. The starch (e.g. Tapioca starch) used in the fourth aspect of the invention may have a very round and smooth granulometry, allowing it to mimic the functionality and characteristics of fat. This starch may be further processed to improve its process stability, and to give it cold swelling properties. This further mimics the functionality and characteristics of fat. In embodiments of the fourth aspect, a blend of different starches maybe used in the composition (e.g. the food supplement). Suitable starches for use in the composition (e.g. the liquid food supplement) include Avanté ® (e.g. Avanté 10S) and Delyte ® (e.g. Delyte 12), both provided by Ulrick & Short Ltd. In embodiments of the fourth aspect, the composition (e.g. the liquid food supplement) comprises from 6 g per 100 mL to 14 g per 100 mL starch. In embodiments of the fourth aspect, the composition (e.g. the liquid food supplement) comprises from 7 g per 100 mL to 13 g per 100 mL starch. In embodiments of the fourth aspect, the composition (e.g. the liquid food supplement) comprises from 8 g per 100 mL to 12 g per 100 mL starch. In embodiments of the fourth aspect, the composition (e.g. the liquid food supplement) comprises from 9 g per 100 mL to 11 g per 100 mL starch. In embodiments of the fourth aspect, the composition (e.g. the liquid food supplement) comprises from 10 g per 100 mL to 11 g per 100 mL starch. In order to achieve the appropriate nutritional balance for a particular patient or set of patients, the composition (e.g. the liquid food supplement) of the invention may comprise further ingredients. For example, the composition (e.g. the liquid food supplement) of the invention may comprise fibre, fat, vitamins, and/or minerals. In embodiments of the fourth aspect, the composition (e.g. the liquid food supplement) comprises from 1 g per 100 mL to 5 g per 100 mL fibre. In embodiments of the fourth aspect, the composition (e.g. the liquid food supplement) comprises from 1 g per 100 mL to 4 g per 100 mL fibre. In embodiments of the fourth aspect, the composition (e.g. the liquid food supplement) comprises from 2 g per 100 mL to 3 g per 100 mL fibre. The fibre can any edible fibre. In embodiments of the fourth aspect, the source of the fibre is inulin or bamboo fibre (e.g. short bamboo fibre). In embodiments of the fourth aspect, the source of the fibre is inulin. In embodiments of the fourth aspect, the composition (e.g. the liquid food supplement) comprises from 0 g per 100 mL to 8 g per 100 mL fat. In embodiments of the fourth aspect, the composition (e.g. the liquid food supplement) comprises from 0 g per 100 mL to 5 g per 100 mL fat. In embodiments of the fourth aspect, the composition (e.g. the liquid food supplement) comprises from 0 g per 100 mL to 1 g per 100 mL fat. The fat can any edible fat. In embodiments of the fourth aspect, the source of the fat is a plant based dairy alternative that will deliver fat. In embodiments of the fourth aspect, the composition (e.g. the liquid food supplement) comprises vitamins and/or minerals, for example the food supplement may comprise vitamin A, vitamin D, vitamin E, vitamin K, vitamin C, thiamine (vitamin B1), riboflavin (vitamin B2), niacin (vitamin B3), vitamin B6, folate (vitamin B9), vitamin B12, biotin (vitamin B7), pantothenate (vitamin B5), calcium, magnesium, manganese, selenium, and/or iodine. In order to help support the health of the user, the composition (e.g. the liquid food supplement) of the fourth aspect may comprise one or more of these vitamins and/or minerals in an amount up to 100 g per 100 mL of the nutrient reference value, e.g. from 10 g per 100 mL to 90 g per 100 mL of the nutrient reference value; from 20 g per 100 mL to 80 g per 100 mL of the nutrient reference value; from 30 g per 100 mL to 70 g per 100 mL of the nutrient reference value; from 40 g per 100 mL to 60 g per 100 mL of the nutrient reference value. In embodiments of the fourth aspect, the composition (e.g. the liquid food supplement) may comprise one or more of these vitamins and/or minerals in an amount between 10 g per 100 mL and 50 g per 100 mL of the nutrient reference value. In embodiments of the fourth aspect, the composition (e.g. the liquid food supplement) may comprise one or more of these vitamins and/or minerals in an amount between 20 g per 100 mL and 40 g per 100 mL of the nutrient reference value. The nutrient reference values (NRVs) of the vitamins and minerals listed above are provided in Tables 1 and 2. Table 1 Table 2 In embodiments of the fourth aspect, the composition (e.g. the liquid food supplement) comprises between 0 g per 100 mL and 3 g per 100 mL vitamins and/or minerals in total. In order to make the composition (e.g. the liquid food supplement) of the fourth aspect more appealing to users who are struggling to consume food, it is desirable that the food supplement has a pleasant taste. As such, the composition (e.g. the liquid food supplement) of the fourth aspect may comprise flavourings, or flavoured components. As well as flavours and flavourings, these could also comprise fruit purees, fruit syrups and/or fruit concentrates. As such, in embodiments of the fourth aspect, the composition (e.g. the liquid food supplement) may comprise flavours, flavourings, fruit purees, fruit syrups and/or fruit concentrates, such as berry puree, apple puree, raspberry puree, mango puree, passionfruit concentrate and/or date syrup. In embodiments of the fourth aspect, all of the components of the composition (e.g. the liquid food supplement) are natural and/or plant based. Carbohydrates help the user to maintain and build weight. As such, in embodiments of the fourth aspect, the total carbohydrate content of the composition (e.g. the liquid food supplement) is from 15 g per 100 mL to 45 g per 100 mL. In embodiments of the fourth aspect, the total carbohydrate content of the composition (e.g. the liquid food supplement) is from 25 g per 100 mL to 45 g per 100 mL). In embodiments of the fourth aspect, the total carbohydrate content of the composition (e.g. the liquid food supplement) is from 20 g per 100 mL to 40 g per 100 mL. In embodiments of the fourth aspect, the total carbohydrate content of the composition (e.g. the liquid food supplement) is from 25 g per 100 mL to 35 g per 100 mL. In embodiments of the fourth aspect, the total carbohydrate content of the composition (e.g. the liquid food supplement) is from 25 g per 100 mL to 30 g per 100 mL. Any edible source of carbohydrate may be used (together with the starch mentioned herein), for example fruit purees, fruit syrups and/or fruit concentrates. In embodiments of the fourth aspect, the composition (e.g. the liquid food supplement) comprises from 0 g per 100 mL to 25 g per 100 mL sugars. In embodiments of the fourth aspect, the composition (e.g. the liquid food supplement) comprises from 5 g per 100 mL to 20 g per 100 mL sugars. In embodiments of the fourth aspect, the composition (e.g. the liquid food supplement) comprises from 10 g per 100 mL to 20 g per 100 mL sugars. In embodiments of the fourth aspect, the composition (e.g. the liquid food supplement) comprises from 15 g per 100 mL to 20 g per 100 mL sugars. Some users may not be able to or want to consume dairy or any other animal derived products. As such, in embodiments of the fourth aspect, the composition (e.g. the liquid food supplement) does not comprise any dairy or dairy-derived components. In embodiments of the fourth aspect, the composition (e.g. the liquid food supplement) does not comprise any animal or animal-derived components. Typically, the energy content of the composition (e.g. the liquid food supplement) of the fourth aspect is high enough to help the user to maintain or build weight when consumed in reasonable amounts. As such, in embodiments of the fourth aspect, the energy content of the composition (e.g. the liquid food supplement) is from 50 to 300 kcal per 100 g. In embodiments of the fourth aspect, the energy content of the composition (e.g. the liquid food supplement) is from 60 to 285 kcal per 100 g. In embodiments of the fourth aspect, the energy content of the composition (e.g. the liquid food supplement) is from 70 to 270 kcal per 100 g. In embodiments of the fourth aspect, the energy content of the composition (e.g. the liquid food supplement) is from 80 to 255 kcal per 100 g. In embodiments of the fourth aspect, the energy content of the composition (e.g. the liquid food supplement) is from 90 to 240 kcal per 100 g. In embodiments of the fourth aspect, the energy content of the composition (e.g. the liquid food supplement) is from 100 to 225 kcal per 100 g. In embodiments of the fourth aspect, the energy content of the composition (e.g. the liquid food supplement) is from 110 to 210 kcal per 100 g. In embodiments of the fourth aspect, the energy content of the composition (e.g. the liquid food supplement) is from 120 to 195 kcal per 100 g. In embodiments of the fourth aspect, the energy content of the composition (e.g. the liquid food supplement) is from 130 to 180 kcal per 100 g. In embodiments of the fourth aspect, the energy content of the composition (e.g. the liquid food supplement) is from 140 to 165 kcal per 100 g. In embodiments of the fourth aspect, the energy content of the composition (e.g. the liquid food supplement) is from 140 to 160 kcal per 100 g. In embodiments of the fourth aspect, the energy content of the composition (e.g. the liquid food supplement) is from 145 to 155 kcal per 100 g. In embodiments of the fourth aspect, the energy content of the composition (e.g. the liquid food supplement) is around 150 kcal per 100 g. In embodiments of the fourth aspect, the pH of the composition (e.g. the liquid food supplement) is between 3 and 5. In embodiments of the fourth aspect, the pH of the composition (e.g. the liquid food supplement) is around 4. This can be achieved by including acids such as citric acid (e.g. as a component of lime juice or lemon juice) or malic acid. In embodiments of the fourth aspect, the composition (e.g. the liquid food supplement) comprises citric acid or malic acid. In embodiments of the fourth aspect, the composition (e.g. the liquid food supplement) comprises citric acid. In embodiments of the fourth aspect, the food supplement comprises malic acid. In order to make the food supplement more appealing to users who are struggling to consume food, it is desirable that the food supplement has a pleasant texture (or mouthfeel). It is also beneficial if the food supplement can act to soothe a sore mouth or throat. It has been found that the composition (e.g. the liquid food supplement) of the fourth aspect can be chilled (or frozen) to provide an iced smoothie, or sorbet or sorbet-like product which has good texture/mouthfeel. The chilled (or frozen) composition (e.g. the chilled or frozen food supplement) of the fourth aspect can act to soothe the mouth or throat of the user when consumed. The composition (e.g. the liquid food supplement) of the fourth aspect can also be chilled (or frozen) to form a solid “ice lolly” product, or chilled to a “iced smoothie” product. As with the sorbet (or sorbet-like product), the ice lolly and iced smoothie products of the fourth aspect have good textures/mouthfeel. Accordingly, in embodiments of the fourth aspect, the composition is chilled (e.g. the composition is a chilled food supplement). In embodiments of the fourth aspect, the temperature of the composition (e.g. the food supplement) is between 0°C and 5°C. Any of the compositions described under the fourth aspect above can be chilled in this manner. Accordingly, in embodiments of the fourth aspect, the composition is frozen (e.g. the composition is a frozen food supplement). In embodiments of the fourth aspect, the temperature of the composition (e.g. the food supplement) is between 0°C and -5°C. Any of the compositions described under the fourth aspect above can be frozen in this manner. In a fifth aspect, the invention provides a composition (e.g. a chilled food supplement) obtainable by chilling the composition (e.g. a liquid food supplement) of the fourth aspect. In embodiments, the temperature of the chilled composition (e.g. the chilled food supplement) is from -5°C to 10°C. In embodiments, the temperature of the chilled composition (e.g. the chilled food supplement) is from -5°C to 5°C. In embodiments, the temperature of the chilled composition (e.g. the chilled food supplement) is from 0°C to 5°C. In embodiments of the fifth aspect, the chilled composition (e.g. the chilled food supplement) may comprise some ice crystals while not being considered frozen. In embodiments of the fifth aspect, the chilled composition (e.g. the chilled food supplement) is an iced smoothie. In embodiments of the fifth aspect, the chilled composition (e.g. the chilled food supplement) is a sorbet or sorbet-like product (i.e. the chilled composition/frozen food supplement comprises a dispersion of ice crystals distributed in a freeze-concentrated liquid phase, e.g. a dispersion of ice crystals distributed randomly in a freeze-concentrated liquid phase). Alternatively, the chilled composition (e.g. the chilled food supplement) of the fifth aspect is homogeneous. In embodiments of the fifth aspect, the chilled composition (e.g. the chilled food supplement) has a good texture and/or mouthfeel. In a sixth aspect, the present invention relates to a composition (e.g. a frozen food supplement) obtainable by freezing the liquid food supplement of the fourth aspect. In embodiments of the sixth aspect, the frozen composition (e.g. the frozen food supplement) is a sorbet or sorbet-like product (i.e. the frozen composition/frozen food supplement comprises a dispersion of ice crystals distributed in a freeze-concentrated liquid phase, e.g. a dispersion of ice crystals distributed randomly in a freeze-concentrated liquid phase). Alternatively, the frozen composition (e.g. the frozen food supplement) of the sixth aspect is homogeneous. In embodiments of the sixth aspect, the frozen composition (e.g. the frozen food supplement) is an ice lolly. In embodiments of the sixth aspect, the frozen composition (e.g. the frozen food supplement) has a good texture and/or mouthfeel. In embodiments of the sixth aspect, the liquid food supplement of the fourth aspect is frozen in a domestic freezer. The temperature inside a domestic freezer is typically from −25 °C to −18 °C. Thus, in embodiments of the third aspect, the container containing a liquid food supplement is placed in a freezer with an internal temperature of from −25 °C to −18 °C. In embodiments of the sixth aspect, the liquid food supplement of the fourth aspect is frozen in a blast freezer. Conveniently, the chilled and frozen compositions of the fourth, fifth and sixth aspects of the invention (e.g. the chilled and frozen food supplements of the fourth, fifth and sixth aspects can be prepared by the user at home and consumed without any further preparation steps, i.e. the composition (e.g. the liquid food supplement) of the fourth aspect is placed in a domestic refrigerator or freezer and left for a certain amount of time, then consumed as a sorbet (or sorbet-like product), an iced smoothie, or an ice lolly. If the composition (e.g. the liquid food supplement) of the fourth aspect is intended to be chilled or frozen by the user at home, then it may be distributed in a shelf stable liquid form, and optionally in a container that is configured to be chilled or frozen and to be readily opened by an end-user when chilled. Therefore, in embodiments of the sixth aspect, the composition (e.g. the liquid food supplement) of the fourth aspect is frozen in a domestic freezer. The temperature inside a domestic freezer is typically from −25 °C to −18 °C. Thus, in embodiments of the sixth aspect, the composition (e.g. the liquid food supplement) of the fourth aspect is frozen in a freezer with an internal temperature of from −25 °C to −18 °C. If the chilled or frozen compositions (e.g. the chilled or frozen food supplement) of the fourth, fifth and sixth aspects are to be chilled or frozen) at home by the user, then it is advantageous to provide the composition (e.g. the liquid food supplement) of the fourth aspect in packaging that minimises effort required from the user to obtain the chilled (or frozen) composition (e.g. the chilled or frozen food supplement) of the fifth and sixth aspects in a form which is ready to be eaten. The composition (e.g. the liquid food supplement) of the fourth aspect may therefore be distributed in a container that is configured to be chilled or frozen and to be readily opened by an end-user when chilled or frozen. In embodiments, this may include shaping the packaging so that the chilled (or frozen) composition (e.g. the chilled or frozen food supplement) of the fifth or sixth aspects can form an ice lolly, for example with a stick. Alternatively, the packaging may be the type of container that is used for ice cream or sorbet. In embodiments, the packaging is a tubular sachet that has been sealed at both ends, and which can be easily torn open. In embodiments, the packaging is a tubular sachet with a resealable nozzle at one end. Alternatively, the frozen compositions (e.g. the frozen food supplement) of the sixth aspect can obtained by blast freezing the composition (e.g. liquid food supplement) of the fourth aspect. In this case, the frozen composition (e.g. the frozen food supplement) of the sixth aspect may be blast-frozen prior to distribution and then maintained as frozen by a purchaser or end-user, then be consumed in its frozen form. This allows the frozen composition (e.g. frozen food supplement) of the sixth aspect to be consumed without any further preparation by the user. The liquid, chilled and frozen compositions (e.g. the liquid, chilled and frozen food supplements) of the fourth, fifth and sixth aspects are high in calories, and are also pleasant and easy to consume, (especially the frozen compositions e.g. the frozen food supplements of the sixth aspect) due to their good texture/mouthfeel and soothing effect. As such, they can be used to help the consumer to maintain or gain weight. The high water content of the liquid, chilled and frozen compositions (e.g. the liquid, chilled and frozen food supplements) of the fourth, fifth and sixth aspects of the present invention also helps to hydrate the consumer. Accordingly, in a seventh aspect, the present invention relates to the use of the liquid, chilled and frozen compositions (e.g. the liquid, chilled and frozen food supplements) of the fourth, fifth and sixth aspects for maintaining or increasing body weight of a user. The seventh aspect of the invention also relates to the liquid, chilled and frozen compositions (e.g. the liquid, chilled and frozen food supplements) of the fourth, fifth and sixth aspects for use in maintaining or increasing body weight of a subject. There are a number of groups of people who might benefit from consuming the liquid, chilled and frozen compositions (e.g. the liquid, chilled and frozen food supplements) of the fourth, fifth and sixth aspects of the invention, including, but not limited to: people with cancer or recovering from treatment for surgery (head and neck cancer in particular); people with any other illness or treatment therefor (e.g. surgery) that might negatively impact appetite (children in particular); teething children; people with mental health issues (e.g. eating disorders); people who simply want to use the food supplement of the fourth aspect to maintain or gain weight for convenience. Some or all of these groups of people may find the chilled or frozen compositions (e.g. chilled or frozen food supplements) of the fourth and fifth aspects, especially frozen compositions (e.g. frozen food supplements) of the sixth aspect, in general more appealing, e.g. because they may have a more pleasant texture (or mouthfeel), or may act to soothe a sore mouth or throat. The invention will now be further illustrated by reference to the following non-limiting examples. EXAMPLES Example 1 The energy content of the food supplement was 150 kcal per 100 g, and the pH of the food supplement was 4. The food supplement had both good flavour and good texture. Example 2 The energy content of the food supplement was 150 kcal per 100 g, and the pH of the food supplement was 4. The food supplement had both good flavour and good texture.

Claims

1. A container containing a liquid food supplement, wherein the container containing the liquid food supplement can be placed in a domestic freezer in order to provide a frozen food supplement.

2. Use of a container containing a liquid food supplement to provide a frozen food supplement, wherein the use comprises placing the container containing a liquid food supplement in a domestic freezer.

3. A method of preparing a frozen food supplement, the method comprising: providing a sealed container containing a liquid food supplement; and placing the container containing a liquid food supplement in a domestic freezer until the food supplement is frozen.

4. The container containing a liquid food supplement, use, or method of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the liquid food supplement comprises: a. from 2 g per 100 mL to 10 g per 100 mL protein; b. from 5 g per 100 mL to 15 g per 100 mL starch; and c. from 20 g per 100 mL to 50 g per 100 mL water.

5. The container containing a liquid food supplement, use, or method of claim 4, wherein the protein is derived from a non-animal source.

6. The container containing a liquid food supplement, use, or method of claim 4 or claim 5, wherein the protein is pea protein.

7. The container containing a liquid food supplement, use, or method of any one of claims 4 to 6, wherein the starch is Tapioca starch.

8. The container containing a liquid food supplement, use, or method of any one of claims 4 to 6, wherein the liquid food supplement further comprises from 1 g per 100 mL to 5 g per 100 mL fibre

9. The container containing a liquid food supplement, use, or method of any one of claims 2 to 7, wherein the liquid food supplement further comprises from 0 g per 100 mL to 8 g per 100 mL fat.

10. The container containing a liquid food supplement, use, or method of any one of claims 4 to 9, wherein the total carbohydrate content of the liquid food supplement is from 25 g per 100 mL to 45 g per 100 mL.

11. The container containing a liquid food supplement, use, or method of any one of claims 4 to 10, wherein the liquid food supplement does not comprise any dairy or dairy-derived components.

12. The container containing a liquid food supplement, use, or method of any one of claims 4 to 11, wherein the liquid food supplement does not comprise any animal or animal-derived components.

13. The container containing a liquid food supplement, use, or method of any one of claims 4 to 12, wherein the energy content of the liquid food supplement is from 50 to 300 kcal per 100 g.

14. The container containing a liquid food supplement, use, or method of any one of claims 4 to 13, wherein the pH of the liquid food supplement is between 3 and 5.

15. The container containing a liquid food supplement, use, or method of any one of claims 4 to 14, wherein the liquid food supplement further comprises vitamins and minerals (e.g. between 0 g per 100 mL and 3 g per 100 mL vitamins and minerals).

16. A liquid food supplement as defined in any one of claims 4 to 15.

17. A chilled food supplement obtainable by chilling the liquid food supplement of claim 16.

18. A frozen food supplement obtainable by freezing the liquid food supplement of claim 16.

19. The frozen food supplement of claim 18, wherein the liquid food supplement is frozen by blast freezing or using a domestic freezer.

20. The frozen food supplement of claim 18 or claim 19, wherein the frozen food supplement comprises a dispersion of ice crystals distributed in a freeze-concentrated liquid phase.

21. The frozen food supplement of anyone of claims 18 to 20, wherein the frozen food supplement comprises a dispersion of ice crystals distributed randomly in a freeze-concentrated liquid phase.

22. The liquid, chilled or frozen food supplement of anyone of claims 16 to 19, wherein the liquid, chilled or frozen food supplement is homogeneous.

23. The liquid, chilled or frozen food supplement of any one of claims 16 to 22, wherein the liquid, chilled or frozen food supplement has a good texture and/or mouthfeel.

24. The container containing a liquid food supplement, use, method, or frozen food supplement of any one of claims 1 to 15 or 17 to 23, wherein the frozen food supplement is in the form of a sorbet, an iced smoothie or an ice lolly.

25. A liquid, chilled or frozen food supplement of any one of claims 16 to 23 for use in maintaining or increasing body weight of a subject.