CHARLOTTE, NC - Did someone say National Picnic Month? July is only a day away and consumers are already taking the park, the beach, or the backyard to enjoy the warm weather and prepare for the Fourth of July. Dole Food Company is ringing in the season with the latest addition to its “Healthier by Dole” alternate menu series, unleashing 10 easy new recipes set to drive fresh fruit and vegetable consumption amongst shoppers.

“With summer in full force, Dole is out to show that picnics, barbecues, and outdoor meals can be easy, healthy, flavorful, and satisfying at the same time,” said Melanie Marcus, RD, MA, Dole’s Nutrition and Health Communications Manager. “From limited-ingredient vegetarian wraps and salads to vegan sandwiches and dips, we’re inviting Americans to discover the flavor and convenience possibilities of a plant-based picnic.”

Each of the 10 sandwich, salad, side dish, and drink recipes involve limited ingredients and preparation and is vegan, vegetarian, and/or gluten-free. As explained in a press release, Marcus focuses on uncomplicated snacks and handheld foods that capitalize on the freshness factor, and she offers more picnic tips in her blog post on the Dole website.

Led by Marcus, the “Healthier by Dole” monthly series offers flavorful and easy-to-prepare recipes that are high in fruits and vegetables and are perfect for any eating occasion.

Stay tuned as we report on the continuation of this fresh sales-driving strategy and more.

Dole Food Company