Blandon, Penn.– Giorgio Fresh is gearing up for the IFPA show in Orlando, Fl this year and is excited to sample the newest flavor in their stuffed mushroom line extension – garlic parmesan.
As part of its commitment to leading the category in innovation and insights, the company has an extensive research and development (R&D) department that explores ingredients and flavor trends within the marketplace. Based on this research, Giorgio formulates their products to reflect consumers growing interests.
“We have a very active product development pipeline. Throughout the year, we aim to showcase our innovation through our product development,” states Greg Sagan, Executive Vice President of Sales and Marketing. “Our strategy is deeply tied to our product development and our plan is to bring this innovation straight to the consumer. As part of our company’s overall strategy, we work on our consumer and product development strategy long before we start getting ready for the show.”
The existing stuffed mushroom line consists of: Fiesta Cheese Blend; Cheese and Imitation Bacon Bits Blend; Artichoke, Spinach, and Cheese Blend; a Crab Seasoning and Cheese Blend, Mediterranean Cheese, and Buffalo Blue Cheese. To cater to a wide range of occasions, all flavors are available in food service packs as well as convenient microwave ready consumer packs; the food service packs are an ideal addition to any operator looking for an oven-ready side to elevate the plate.
Giorgio also plans to also showcase their signature portabella jerky, Savory Wild™, at the show. “In an effort to continue to place strong emphasis on mushroom-based innovation, our R&D team has engaged chefs to create this incredibly flavorful, meat-textured snack alternative,” says Sagan. Giorgio expands their popular existing Savory Wild™ Portabella Mushroom Jerky line two new flavors, Smokehouse Bacon and Hot & Spicy Cajun Style. These new recipes add to Giorgio’s current flavor lineup of Roasted Garlic & Black Pepper, Sweet Balsamic & Golden Fig, and Sesame, Ginger & Korean Chili, that were awarded the prestigious 2020 Backpacker Editor’s Choice Award.
“As mushroom category leaders, we utilize best practices and work directly with our customers to develop customized programs to optimize their consumer base to further expand the category,” explains Sagan. “Cross-merchandising is something retailers can capitalize more on, as mushrooms are such a flexible ingredient in so many recipes. We are seeing mushrooms in meat sections for use in kabobs; located next to peppers, onions and other vegetables for sautés; positioned near the mixed greens and pre-made salads as an ideal complement. It’s all about giving consumers options.”
Additionally, highlighted at the show will be Giorgio’s line of dried mushroom varieties. Consumers can experience a variety of delicious flavors by experimenting with dried gourmet mushrooms. They can be substituted for fresh mushrooms in most recipes where mushrooms are cooked. Giorgio’s Dried Mushrooms are available in the following varieties: Whole Shiitake, Chanterelle, Black Trumpet, Lobster, Morel, Oyster, Porcini, Portabella, Shiitake Sliced, Northwoods, Soup Blend, Stir Fry, and Wood Ear.
Visit booth #2055 for a first-hand sampling of the newest stuffed mushroom flavor in the line extension, try a couple delicious recipes prepared by our private chef and say hi to the team over a cup of coffee!
About Giorgio Fresh:
Since 1928, Giorgio Fresh, the premier grower, packer and shipper of mushrooms has enjoyed a long-standing reputation for providing the worldwide retail and food service industry with the finest quality mushrooms. A family-owned business with a family tradition of excellence, the Giorgio brand has come to stand for quality and integrity nationally. For more information, visit Giorgio online at www.giorgiofresh.com or call 1-800-330-5711 for sales assistance.
