Basciani Foods invests in automation

(File image)

Avondale, Pa.-based Basciani Foods has invested in automation, and that move is paying off, said Fred Recchiuti, general manager of the company.

“Before COVID hit, we had invested in automation to automatically weigh and package our sliced mushrooms in patented shelf-life extending bags,” which the firm has patented, Recchiuti said.

“It was really well received by the market and now we can't produce enough,” he said, noting that the firm is waiting on two new machines that have been delayed with supply chain issues.

Basciani Foods ships primarily to foodservice distributors for large chain restaurants, he said.

“Our business nosedived in March of 2020, but then, as the restaurants pivoted to take-out, it got much better,” he said. For 2022, Basciani Foods will produce more mushrooms compared with 2021, he said, noting surging consumer interest in mushrooms.

“Many mushrooms have immunity-boosting benefits, so the category is well-aligned with that market segment,” he said.

Retailers can promote mushrooms by cross-marketing them in the meat department, he said.

The Packer's Mushroom Marketing Coverage

 

 

 

Latest News

Sustainable California Initiative charts progress in ag sustainability and equity
Sustainable California Initiative charts progress in ag sustainability and equity

GrubMarket says its initiative made strides in 2023, including the planting of 100,000-plus trees and aiding farmers in organic transition.

Oppy hits the slopes with competitive skier partnership
Oppy hits the slopes with competitive skier partnership

Ski-cross athlete Emeline Bennett will share food tips, highlights and more through Oppy’s social media channels.

World Variety highlights combo pack of dragon fruit at AWG showcase
World Variety highlights combo pack of dragon fruit at AWG showcase

With more than 1,500 options among its offerings, World Variety Produce had plenty of options to highlight at the Associated Wholesale Grocers' seventh annual Innovation Showcase, March 25-26.

AgroFresh bolsters postharvest solutions with Pace International purchase
AgroFresh bolsters postharvest solutions with Pace International purchase

The company says the acquisition will expand its postharvest portfolio and that it plans to collaborate with Valent BioSciences to develop future products to boost produce freshness.

Wonderful Citrus highlights Organic Halos, Seedless Lemons
Wonderful Citrus highlights Organic Halos, Seedless Lemons

Wonderful also promoted its No Shells pistachios, including its new Jalapeño Lime flavor, at the Associated Wholesale Grocers' seventh annual Innovation Showcase.

NGA makes marketing hire, promotes government relations staffer
NGA makes marketing hire, promotes government relations staffer

The National Grocers Association has welcomed Caroline Sar as its manager of marketing and member engagement and promoted Max Wengroff to senior manager of government relations.