Explore our story.

Founded in 1948 by Kermit Heeps, the K. Heeps, Inc. food manufacturing company began by supplying ground beef to local foodservice operators in Allentown, Pennsylvania. Over time, the company expanded into a full line of proteins and added a portion-control operation to better serve its growing customer base. In the 1970s, Kermit’s nephew, Jim Heeps, joined the business and later acquired it in 1980. Under his leadership, K. Heeps entered a new era of growth—acquiring a produce processing operation and two seafood companies. In addition to his contributions to the company, Jim Heeps was instrumental in advancing the industry at large. To help ensure safer eating for people with swallowing difficulties, he led the charge for improved processing of texture-modified foods.

In 1994, Jim Heeps began experimenting with purées while the company was still focused on selling whole products. Through close relationships with healthcare providers, we identified a clear need: patients with dysphagia deserved puréed food that was not only safe but genuinely delicious.

With no equipment designed to make this type of product, Jim improvised. His first purée prototypes were shaped using construction materials, allowing portions to resemble the original whole food.

As demand grew, a dedicated purée kitchen was established. Certified culinary chefs were enlisted to help refine recipes, ensuring that puréed foods are both flavorful and nourishing.

The result was more than a product—it was a philosophy. By honoring the original shape and taste of the food, we demonstrate dignity, care, and respect for patients while setting a new standard for puréed meals in healthcare.

Jim’s new process allowed us to hone in on chef-crafted purées that meet IDDSI Standards and elevate the eating experience for people living with dysphagia. Our signature dimensional molds and wide variety of options, including meats, vegetables, fruits, breakfast items and desserts, as well as minced and moist products, have supported some of the nation’s most trusted dysphagia programs.

Now, our IDDSI specialized meal solutions are ready to tell their own story. In 2026, we introduced our own brand, bringing Eatsential Purées directly to operators in healthcare, senior living and more. Every recipe is crafted by an on-staff culinary team to meet dietary needs while restoring dignity, flavor and enjoyment to mealtime.

We’re not stopping here. Our commitment is to keep driving innovation, raising standards and moving forward—always finding new ways to bring nourishment to life.