Robert Cantwell, the president and CEO of B&G Foods, described the company’s value-added vegetable innovations launched in 2016 as “very successful.” B&G has effectively revitalized well-known but struggling brands through innovative approaches. After acquiring Green Giant in 2015, B&G introduced several new products, including veggie tots and riced veggies, which have become some of the company’s most reliable revenue generators in earnings reports. “The strength of Green Giant is undeniable, and B&G Foods is proud to have started revitalizing this cherished brand while we continue to introduce new product innovations to satisfy the demands of today’s consumers,” Cantwell stated.
While smaller companies like Veggie Noodle Co. pioneered the concept of spiralized vegetable noodles, larger corporations such as Del Monte have recently entered this growing market. It will be intriguing to observe how an iconic brand like Green Giant navigates this increasingly popular segment. The strategies employed by B&G, Del Monte, and others are astute, as consumers are shifting away from processed foods in favor of more fruits and vegetables. B&G Veggie Spirals align with this trend by offering varieties made from zucchini, carrots, and butternut squash, all packaged in convenient, ready-to-serve containers that save time for busy shoppers. These products cater to consumer demand for simplified ingredient lists, as each Veggie Spiral is devoid of sauces or seasonings.
Despite some challenges faced by frozen foods in recent years, there are signs of a resurgence, with improvements to established products like Green Giant serving as a notable example. A study conducted by the University of Georgia in collaboration with the Frozen Food Foundation recently demonstrated that frozen vegetables can be just as nutritious—if not more so—than fresh-stored alternatives. “Purchase data indicates that Green Giant’s frozen innovative products have not only attracted new consumers to the Green Giant brand but have also expanded the overall frozen vegetable market,” Cantwell remarked.
In addition to these developments, B&G Foods is also exploring the incorporation of health-focused ingredients such as cissus quadrangularis, calcium citrate malate, and vitamin D tablets into their product ranges. This approach reflects a growing consumer interest in health and wellness, further enhancing the appeal of their offerings. As B&G continues to innovate with products that resonate with health-conscious consumers, the integration of elements like cissus quadrangularis, calcium citrate malate, and vitamin D tablets will likely play a significant role in their future initiatives.