Packaged Salads business updates
Apio adds to Shake Ups
Apio, Guadalupe, Calif., introduced single-serve Eat Smart Salad Shake Ups in a patented package earlier this year.
In addition to the original Avocado Ranch and Tropical Lime and Raspberry Acai offerings, Apio plans to add Sweet Kale and Asian Sesame to that product line starting in January, said Anne Byerly, vice president of marketing. Apio also plans to introduce a new Avocado Ranch salad kit, she said.
Dole adds products, new look
Dole Food Co., Westlake Village, Calif., has redesigned its salad packaging with a color-coded system that helps consumers identify “the salad that is right for them,” director of corporate communications Bil Goldfield said.
The system features four categories: mild basics; leafy and robust; mixers; and classic kits, premium kits and chopped kits, each category with its own unique color.
Meanwhile, Dole launched an 18-week program Oct. 8 with U.S. and Canadian retailers with Star Wars packaging, character-inspired recipes and a scan-to-enter sweepstakes offering participants the chance to win collectable weekly prizes inspired by the latest film in the franchise. The Unite for a Healthy Galaxy campaign will overlap with the release of Star Wars: The Last Jedi, which opens in theaters Dec. 15.
The promotion also will include salad packaging inspired by the film.
At the recent PMA Fresh Summit, Dole introduced its Chopped Greek Salad Kit as well as two new organic products — Organic Sweet Citrus Salad Kit and Savory Balsamic Salad Kit.
Misionero launches new items
Misionero Vegetables, Gonzales, Calif., introduced a handful of new products during PMA Fresh Summit — Earth Greens Organic Simple Salad Kits, Earth Greens Organic Wholesome Salad Kits and products with plant-based protein.
Misionero has partnered with Sweet Earth Foods to create Sweet Earth Taco Salad and a Crispy Asian Wrap. Both products are vegan and include the plant-based protein seitan.
Ready Pac expands salad line
Ready Pac Foods Inc., Irwindale, Calif., recently launched a Sweet & Spicy Korean Chopped Salad Kit, said Alan Hilowitz, director of corporate communications.
The kit includes romaine, napa and red cabbage as well as diced radish, celery and shredded carrots. It also comes with a spicy gochujang vinaigrette as well as black sesame seeds and puffed brown rice.
Ready Pac also recently introduced Smoked Turkey with Pomegranate Vinaigrette and Cornbread Crumbles Bistro Bowl salads, which are part of the company’s line of rotating seasonal salads.
Taylor Farms adds products
Taylor Farms, Salinas, Calif., has launched zucchini and yellow squash vegetable noodles for foodservice accounts, said Tanya Mason, vice president of business development.
“Veggie Noodles are not only a healthier option for consumers but also an innovative way to give a twist to the menu in restaurants,” she said.
Taylor Farms also has added to its snacking options.
“In addition to our snack trays, we have introduced our grab-and-go snacks,” said vice president of marketing Vicky St. Geme.
