SAN FRANCISCO, CA – An increase in meals from home is one of the single biggest changes in eating patterns in Americans in the last five years, according to the NPD Group’s newly released 29^th annual Eating Patterns in America report.

“We are eating more meals in our homes, but not cooking more dishes,” says Harry Balzar, VP of The NPD Group and author of the report.  This is apparent in the fresh potato category.  Data from Nielsen FreshFacts® reveals that the white-hot microwaveable/steamable segment has seen dollar sales increasing 31% for the latest 52 week period ending on September 27 of this year.

Fresh Solutions Network is positioned to take advantage of these trends with Side Delight® Steamables™, which are triple washed, fresh, whole, small potatoes in a microwave safe package that is ready to serve in 8 minutes.  According to a press release, these are the only microwave-ready potato brand that uses light-blocker packaging technology to keep potatoes fresher and protect from greening due to harsh lighting.

“Retailers have a tremendous opportunity with offering their shoppers more quick and convenient ways to enjoy fresh potatoes” said Kathleen Triou, President and CEO of Fresh Solutions Network.  “Side Delights Steamables gives them a complete lineup of gourmet potatoes that appeal to time-starved families as well as Millennial shoppers, all packaged using the latest technology to protect their premium quality.”

The Side Delights Steamables come in 7 potato varieties: Russet, Red, Golden, White, Sweet Potatoes, Purples and Fingerlings.  The Fingerlings and Sweet Potatoes bring together these rapidly growing specialty potato types with the convenience of microwave cooking.  The company believes that these offerings are positioned for the busy customer of today.

It is definitely great to see this increase of Americans who are cooking at home and eating more fresh produce. This is an encouraging trend for the industry.

Fresh Solutions Network