KANSAS CITY — Frozen foods are seeing a wave of flavor and format innovations, particularly within frozen meat products.
Tyson Foods has added two chicken offerings to simplify mealtimes and satisfy refined tastes, according to the company. Tyson Honey Chicken Bites feature chicken and a honey-infused breading. The bites contain 14 grams of protein per serving and are sold in 24-oz packages. Tyson’s Restaurant Style Crispy Wings aim to deliver restaurant-quality experiences to consumers at home, with 15 grams of protein per serving. The wings are launching in flavors like rotisserie, garlic parmesan and Caribbean style.
"We're thrilled to introduce Tyson Honey Chicken Bites and Restaurant Style Crispy Wings to consumers who want convenience without sacrificing flavor," said Jessica Johnson, managing director at Tyson Foods. "These new offerings embody our commitment to innovation and quality, providing delicious options that cater to the diverse tastes and busy lifestyles of today's consumer."
Poultry producer Pilgrim’s Pride has debuted a line of “flavor-forward” frozen chicken nuggets. The line includes Loaded Nuggets, which feature fillings and flavors such as chicken pot pie and cheesy jalapeño; Ultimate Nuggets, crispy chicken coated in re-imagined seasonings; and Mini Nuggets, developed in an easily “poppable” format with zesty ranch, original and buttery varieties. The entire line is expected to roll out into retailers beginning this summer.
“Today’s consumer does not want to eat boring chicken, but the lack of variety in the frozen chicken aisle has left them with dry, bland and forgettable options,” said Sergio Nahuz, president of prepared foods and chief marketing officer at Pilgrim's US. “At Pilgrim’s, we’re combatting chicken monotony by reimagining what chicken nuggets can be.”
Golden West Food Group has expanded its portfolio of licensed partner products with new offerings from Hooters of America, LLC. The launch includes chicken wings and boneless chicken products designed for convenient at-home preparation. Varieties include Buffalo Style Popcorn Chicken, Buffalo Style Boneless Wingz, BBQ Smoked Wings and Dry Rub Smoked Wings. In addition to these products, Golden West announced it will be launching four more Hooters branded products by the end of the year.
“Whether it’s an easy meal at home, or planning food on the go, consumers now have another way to enjoy the world-famous taste of Hooters with these new frozen appetizers and snacks,” said Bruce Skala, chief marketing officer for Hooters of America.
