As cold foods processors continue to implement sustainability goals and initiatives into their business plans, going green means everything from what the food is made with to how it’s packaged for consumer consumption.

While frozen food sales didn’t post the double-digit gains seen during 2020, at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, changing consumer tastes and perceptions look to shape the industry in 2022.

Led by CEO Theresa Motter, Van’s Kitchen has weathered the COVID pandemic to sign over 10 new distributor, supermarket and grocery store accounts, increasing the company’s client base by 28%. Van’s Kitchen has spent the past year fulfilling more orders, marking a 40% increase in sales year-over-year.

As the cold chain responded to the challenges of 2021, each of our five Processors to Watch overcame an unprecedented year, growing their brands and positioning them to take off in 2022.

Stouffer’s is releasing limited edition packaging for its frozen lasagna and macaroni and cheese meals that plays a jingle at the touch of a button. Simply push the sticker on the front of select boxes to hear 15-seconds of cheesy fun.

Check out the latest meals and entrées in grocery freezercases today.

Martha Stewart Kitchen (MSK) in conjunction with Marquee Brands and MSK Foods, is expanding the distribution of MSK frozen dishes to over 10,000 retail stores nationwide. The brand launched last December regionally in grocery outlets throughout the Northeast and Midwest, with 24 core products.

Nestle's Life Cuisine is introducing new dishes across a variety of formats with innovative ingredients and lifestyle options like cauliflower bites, gluten-free pasta, single-serve cauliflower crust pizza, piadas and more.

Moe’s Southwest Grill is releasing frozen, ready-to-heat burrito bowls that’ll be available at 1,950+ Kroger locations nationwide. Inspired by the bold flavors Moe’s Southwest Grill has to offer, four enticing varieties of bowls will be available for just $5.49 or $6.49 for people to enjoy quickly and easily at home or work.  

Tattooed Chef is continuing to up the ante with new textures and flavors for plant-based eaters. Available in Sam’s Club stores nationwide, shoppers can find three new meals fashioned after traditionally beloved dishes, including new Thai inspirations and a fresh take on some California favorites.