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The value-added protein market is really cooking thanks to the growing demand for ultra-convenient entrees with unforgettable flavor. In the U.S. alone, the value-added protein market is projected to grow at 5.2% CAGR through 2028 (Technomic, 2024). But with growth comes serious pressure, including rising labor costs, SKU complexity, and quality expectations. Today’s consumers don’t […]

Grilling is far more than a way to cook. It’s a time-honored ritual, a celebratory gathering, and a flavor experience all its own. For years, grilling season has been a powerhouse for retail meat and value-added protein sales — and the momentum keeps building. In 2023, pre-marinated meats and ready-to-cook proteins notched a 9% year-over-year sales

Store brands are stepping up – and shoppers are noticing. Once seen as the budget pick, private label food products are now earning serious shelf respect across North America, where they make up over 19% of total grocery sales (PLMA, 2024). Today’s consumers expect store brands to deliver just as much flavor and quality as

Ever feel like your taste buds are stuck on repeat? You’re not alone – over 72% of consumers say they’re tired of eating the same meals over and over again (Datassential, 2024). In fact, consumer burnout due to repetitive, underwhelming meal options is so prevalent, it now has a name: “taste fatigue.” While convenience remains

Crispy, golden, and universally loved, fried foods are always a hit – but the bar is higher than ever. Basic fries and chicken tenders just don’t cut it anymore. Today’s diners want more than a toothsome crunch; they’re looking for flavor fireworks and sauces that pack a punch. In fact, 73% of consumers say sauces

In the fast-moving world of foodservice, kitchens are under more pressure than ever. Labor is tight, ingredient costs are climbing, and every second counts – especially when customers expect boldly flavorful yet consistent menu items at lightning-fast speeds. That’s why operators are rethinking every element of the kitchen. It’s also why sauce is emerging as

Portion pouches may be small, but they’re doing a lot of heavy lifting these days. After all, we live in a convenience-driven food landscape in which consumers expect bold flavors and clean presentation yet don’t want to sacrifice speed or simplicity. How can sauce manufacturers balance efficiency and value with bold, delightful, crave-able flavors? With

  Battles for attention take place every day in crowded grocery aisles. To capture retailer interest and spark consumer loyalty, value-added protein manufacturers must find a way to differentiate their products. How? Custom sauces, of course! A standout sauce can effortlessly steal the spotlight. In fact, 81% of consumers say that sauces and marinades influence

Classic sauces aren’t what they used to be. From miso creamy alfredo to harissa-flavored marinara, American chefs are turning traditional palates into spicy, smoky, and zesty fusions. With a dash of South Asian spices, West African sauces, and Korean pastes, a boring everyday meal is turned into a flavorful and adventurous experience.  Research shows that

Whether you’re hustling through a busy workweek or simply dodging dish duty, there’s nothing quite like the magic of frozen meals. With a little help from your microwave, you can have a delicious dinner ready to go in mere minutes. Due to this irresistible ease, frozen meals have become a staple of modern kitchens. In