Introducing Foxwoods’ “Happy Aftertaste Soft Meal” – A Game-Changer for People with Dysphagia and the Elderly

Foxwoods is set to launch its innovative “Happy Aftertaste Soft Meal” on October 1, marking a significant milestone as the first fast food chain restaurant in Hong Kong to provide soft meals. This initiative aims to cater to the needs of people with dysphagia and the elderly, promoting “eating with dignity” and raising public awareness about soft meals.

The four types of soft meals, priced at NT$58, are currently available for takeout at 9 designated branches or can be ordered via WhatsApp. Free shipping is offered for purchases over NT$500. Notably, the cost of soft meals is two to three times more expensive than ordinary food, with the investment in the project reaching 7 figures. Depending on the response, Foxwoods may consider opening dine-in services and collaborating with residential homes for the elderly in the future.

Soft Meal Options and Production Standards

In the first phase, Foxwoods has launched four soft-serve dishes: “Aho Curry Chicken Rice”, “Fresh Eggplant Pork Chop Rice”, “Aho Creamy Corn Pork Rice”, and “Pineapple Sweet and Sour Pork Rice”. These meals are produced in accordance with the “Care Food” standard guidelines of the Federation of Social Services and the International Dysphagia Dietary Standard Level 4. The meals are designed and produced in Foxwoods’ central kitchen, adhering to the food pyramid and incorporating natural ingredients such as sweet potatoes, broccoli, and cabbage.

Japanese enzymes are added to break down the starch and control the texture of the soft meals. The company has also adjusted the Ah Huo curry formula to maintain the original flavor of the sauce. The soft meals are designed to not only taste delicious but also maintain the original shape and color of the food.

Availability and Ordering Process

Soft meals are currently available for takeout at 9 branches, with each store serving 80 boxes per day. Members of the public can also order via WhatsApp, with delivery starting from one box and free shipping for purchases over NT$500. Foxwoods has implemented strict food control measures, with each branch having an independent negative 18-degree refrigerator to store soft meals.

Future Plans and Collaborations

While the project has required more time, effort, and money than expected, Foxwoods is committed to focusing on elderly customers for now. However, the company is open to exploring cooperation with other companies in the future, particularly in providing soft meals to residential care homes for the elderly. Foxwoods has also partnered with the social enterprise “Speech” to set up “mobile swallowing assessment stations” in 30 branches, offering swallowing assessments and education on dysphagia and soft meals.