This study developed and examined the acceptability of zinc-enriched confectionery products in terms of taste and texture. Seventy medical staff who were blinded to the addition of zinc gave high scores to cocoa cookies, mizu yokan (a jelly made from red bean paste), and caramel on all tests. Forty outpatients who regularly visited our dialysis clinic were asked to consume these three products for 30 days. Both diet self-efficacy and zinc deficiency improved in these patients, suggesting that this dietary therapy can be continued for a prolonged period and may contribute to improved serum zinc levels in elderly hemodialysis patients.
