Mars Food & Nutrition, a division of Mars, Incorporated, is expanding its ready meals offerings with the introduction of new product lines in North America and the UK.
In the US and Canada, the company is launching Ben’s Original Street Food, featuring four flavorful entrées such as a bean and rice burrito bowl. These meals are designed to be high in fiber and protein, catering to consumers with busy lifestyles.
In the UK market, Mars is introducing Ben’s Original Favourites and Lunch Bowls, initially available at Tesco with plans for wider distribution later in the year. The Lunch Bowls consist of grain and vegetable combinations that are high in fiber and protein, while the Favourites range offers rice-based dishes featuring vegetables and global flavors. Both product lines are free from artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives.
These new offerings align with Mars Food & Nutrition’s nutrition criteria, which are based on recommendations from the World Health Organization and other health authorities. They also contribute to the company’s five-year Health & Wellbeing commitments.
The expansion into ready meals is a strategic move by Mars Food & Nutrition to address changing consumer needs. Recent research indicates that 48% of U.S. consumers spend less than 15 minutes daily on meal preparation, highlighting a demand for convenience. Additionally, two-thirds of global consumers express interest in exploring new world flavors, while half prioritize healthy eating across all age groups.
To develop these products, Mars Food & Nutrition employed a comprehensive approach. This included engaging consumers in the development process, leveraging chef creativity, and utilizing AI-powered insights. The company focused on creating nutritious meals that could be consumed regularly as healthier options, while also addressing consumer concerns about cooking time and the desire for quick meal solutions.
This initiative represents Mars Food & Nutrition’s effort to provide consumers with meals that balance health, taste, and convenience, while incorporating diverse global flavors.
“We know Gen Z and Millennial shoppers are prioritizing three things when it comes to mealtimes: convenience, nutrition, and tasty, globally-inspired flavors,” said Shaid Shah, global president at Mars Food & Nutrition. “That’s why our mission is to enable healthier and more flavorful eating to become part of consumers’ daily lives.”
Find out more at: https://www.mars.com