Frozen Food Innovations Heat Up Grocery

Frozen and refrigerated snacks and entrees sold in the grocery channel experienced a wide range of innovation that span new flavors, artisanal creations, exotic proteins, plant-based offerings and more.

Sold frozen, Beyond Meat launched Beyond Chicken Nuggets and Beyond Popcorn Chicken, the latest additions to its chicken platform that also includes Beyond Chicken Tenders.

“We’re always exploring new plant-based protein sources that deliver the taste and texture of its animal protein equivalent and are proud that by using faba bean protein, we’ve been able to create a portfolio of plant-based chicken products with no added soy, a key differentiator for our Beyond Chicken products within the category,” said chief innovation officer Dariush Ajami.

Sold refrigerated, Olli’s Cornichons & Onion Antipasto Tray with charcuterie boards blend traditional favorites such as salami and cheese and a broad range of unique accompaniments.

“Charcuterie is a traditional part of Italian family gatherings, year-round and especially during the holidays,” said Oliviero Colmignoli, president of Olli Salumeria, Oceanside, Calif. “While Olli Antipasto Trays can be enjoyed right out of the package, there has been a surge in consumer interest for increasingly elaborate, stylized [alternatives]. For those who are more adventurous with their charcuterie creations, Olli Antipasto Trays provide a great starting point, which we then support with pairing suggestions and serving ideas that encourage creative and fun ways to make your own board.”

Click ahead for a snapshot of seven frozen and refrigerated arrivals to grocery sets ...

Cali’flour Foods expanded its frozen food entree lineup with two keto-friendly comfort classics: Beef & Broccoli (Asian-inspired cauliflower rice bowl with beef, broccoli, carrots, red pepper and edamame and 12 grams of net carbs); and Cheesy Chicken & Rice (cauliflower rice bowl with chicken, cheese and broccoli). The items join existing frozen entrees, including Lasagna with Meat Sauce, Vegetable Lasagna, Chicken Enchilada Bake and Vegetable Enchilada Bake.

Jack & Annie’s is launching three frozen food products—Crispy Jack Patties, Buffalo Jack Patties and Crispy Gluten-Free Jack Tenders—meatless options made from jackfruit and vegan-friendly ingredients. Crispy Jack Patties are lightly seasoned, Buffalo Jack Patties offer a zesty flavor with hints of vinegar and butter and Crispy Gluten-Free Jack Tenders are gluten free.

As more consumers seek plant-based foods, Gardein (Conagra Brands) expanded its Ultimate Plant-Based collection in mid-2022 with Ultimate Plant-Based Chick’n Wings in Buffalo and BBQ style flavors. The Gardein Ultimate Plant-Based Spicy Chick’n Filet complements the Original variety that debuted in 2021, while plant-based Spicy Italian and Bratwurst links are also available.

Olli Salumeria launched Olli Cornichons & Onions Antipasto Trays that combine sliced, slow-cured Olli Hard Salami and Italian Dry Salami with cheddar cheese curds, pickled cornichons and onions. It joins four existing Olli Antipasto Tray pairings, including Parmesan & Frescatrano; Cheddar & Jalapeno and two all-meat varieties featuring a selection of Olli’s Italian-style salami (SRP range of $16.99 to $19.99).

MorningStar Farms is rolling out several chicken-oriented entrees and snacks, including MorningStar Farms Incogmeato Chik’n Nuggets, a good source of protein packed with the flavor of real chicken. They are non-GMO with 180 calories and 12 grams of protein per serving (SRP of $6.49). Other debuts include Incogmeato Mickey Mouse Shaped Chik’n Nuggets, Chik'n Nuggets, Veggie Zesty Ranch Chik’n Nuggets, Veggie Sweet Mustard Chik’n Nuggets and Veggie BBQ Chik’n Nuggets.

Beyond Meat launched Beyond Chicken Nuggets and Beyond Popcorn Chicken, the latest additions to its poultry platform that also includes Beyond Chicken Tenders. Beyond Chicken Nuggets and Beyond Popcorn Chicken are made with 14 grams of plant-based protein derived from a faba bean and pea blend, 50% less saturated fat, zero cholesterol and no added antibiotics, hormones or soy. Beyond Chicken Nuggets come pre-cooked and can be prepared in an air fryer in less than 5 minutes.

White Castle and Bellisio Foods partnered to bring White Castle Chicken Rings to the retail channel. Sold frozen, White Castle Chicken Rings come in Original and Spicy flavors and are made with white meat chicken and are lightly breaded in a ring shape.