Having visited central and northern Italy, Olive Garden's corporate chefs have developed several "permanent" new menu items "crafted from fresh, simple ingredients and rooted in Italian culinary tradition."
Convenience store operator 7-Eleven Inc., Dallas, said it will present its "2008 Retailer Initiative Award" to Kraft Foods Inc. during the retail chain's annual business partners dinner.
United Supermarkets LLC, Lubbock, Texas, said it acquired local refrigerated foods processor Praters Foods Inc. to strengthen its prepared food capabilities.
Jamba Juice Company, Emeryville, Calif., said it signed a license agreement with the Inventure Group, Phoenix, Ariz., to develop a line of a blend-and-serve, frozen-fruit smoothie kits for retail grocery.
The Frozen Food Foundation, McLean, Va., has introduced the "Frozen Food Foundation Freezing Research Award" to recognize new freezing research by individuals or organizations.
After almost two months of being out of the U.S. marketplace, Nestle USA, Solon, Ohio, said Nestle Toll House refrigerated cookie dough is returning to stores this week.
Although its focus was fresh produce on the menu, an industry survey of restaurant operators has some important learnings for frozen fruit and vegetable processors as well.
Facing recessionary pressure and prospects of more frugal consumer spending, Whole Foods Market Inc. has decided to reemphasize the healthy eating element of its proposition.
Frozen pizza and snacks was the strongest private label growth category during a 52-week period ending July 11, 2009, according to The Nielsen Company.