Frozen packs a flavor punch - Side Dish - prepared frozen meals - Brief Article

DSN Retailing Today, May 5, 2003

The consumer segment for prepared frozen meals clearly indicates that convenience is a big factor in their purchasing. Wellness rings in, but transferring restaurant preferences into the home shouldn't be underestimated.

American consumers are more adventurous than they used to be. The popularity of prepared foods indicates consumers do want what they had in the restaurant at home, but they don't necessarily want the hassle of cooking it. Seafood is one are where this is particularly true.

"On the frozen side of the food business, it's definitely about keeping pace with what you see at restaurants," said Dana Bartholomew, vp of sales at Slade Gorton. "It's Kung Pao Chicken and glazed salmon."

Vendors like Slade Gordon are emphasizing prepared and semi-prepared product, and not just in the frozen case. Semi-prepared refrigerated product also is gaining in seafood for the consumer who wants be more active in preparation, but isn't ready to take seafood on from scratch.