Magazine-inspired frozen meals; Gluten-free banana powder; Spicing up black pepper

Magazine-inspired frozen meals
Meredith Brand Licensing and Bellisio Foods collaborated to introduce their new EatingWell frozen entrées, which each contain at least one cup of vegetables and 13 or more grams of protein. The meals, which are contained in cut-away cartons that reveal the food inside, are handplaced onto plates and vacuum sealed in a self-venting film to maintain freshness, reduce freezer burn, and improve shelf life, which the companies are calling Fresh-Seal packaging.

“We are excited to officially launch EatingWell frozen entrées and to fill a long-existing void in the marketplace for delicious, authentic, and convenient frozen food products that fit consumers’ healthful lifestyles,” says Jeff Tuttle, senior vice-president of innovation with Bellisio Foods. “We strongly believe consumers will respond favorably to … the degree of transparency we’re bringing to market, from packaging to ingredients.”

The line includes eight varieties, such as Cherry Port Pork, Indian Inspired Chicken, Vermont Cheddar Mac & Cheese, and Korean Inspired Beef. They can be found at retailers nationwide for a suggested retail price of $3.5­0–$4.

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Gluten-free banana flour
Edward & Sons Trading Co.’s Let’s Do...Organic brand recently introduced its Organic Green Banana Flour, a gluten-free alternative to grain flour. The flour is milled from dried unripe bananas, which contain high levels of resistant starch, which may make consumers feel more full.

“We are dedicated to introducing the most innovative organic products to the market,” says Edward & Sons founder and CEO Joel Dee. “We’re thrilled by the enthusiastic response to our new Organic Green Banana Flour among consumers and foodservice customers searching for delicious and versatile alternatives to conventional grain flours.”

In recipes, consumers can swap in 3/4 cup of green banana flour for every 1 cup of wheat flour. They can also add it to smoothies and shakes for added iron and potassium. A 14-ounce package, which contains about 2 cups by volume, retails for a suggested price of $5.99.

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Spicing up black pepper
McCormick launched a line of black peppers intended to add a bold kick of flavor to marinades, while cooking, or as a boost of heat to prepared dishes.

The peppers, which are available in five flavors, range from mild to hot. Worcestershire Black Pepper Seasoning and Smokehouse Black Pepper are ideal for adding to steak, burgers, pork chops, and atop potatoes. Hotter varieties like Sriracha Black Pepper Seasoning, Chipotle Black Pepper Seasoning, and Hot Shot Extra Bold Pepper Blend can be used in place of hot sauce on dishes like eggs, tacos, and chili.

The line can be found at retailers nationwide for a suggested retail price of $3.99.