LANDENBERG, PA - Consumers are continuing to grow more inclined to diversify their lifestyles with more plant-based eating occasions, experimenting with fresh produce in substitution of animal protein. Buona Foods’ fresh, 100% Mushroom Gourmet Crumble was created with this in mind, aiming to elevate a myriad of eating experiences from blended burgers to toppings on pizza, pasta, and so much more.

“The Gourmet Crumble is a diced blend of baby bella, white, and portobello mushrooms and is a natural extension of the mushroom category, providing a progression from whole to sliced to diced for the sake of convenience and value. It originally comes from the concept of blending ground meat with chopped mushrooms to reduce the fat content, cholesterol, and sodium while improving the vitamin and mineral content,” said Chris Johansen, Sales and Account Manager. “In using our product, consumers can tailor their recipes, and dare I say, improve the flavor as well.”

The product is currently offered in a pack of six 8 oz containers. Chris told me that oftentimes, blending recipes call for 8 ounces of ground protein and eight ounces of mushrooms, so this offering was a natural first step. Buona is now developing 4 oz and 6 oz packages, which are meant to target the meal kit industry.

The branding of the Gourmet Crumble is key to its success, with innovative packaging that is best representative of its versatility. The product features a clear shaker lid over a heat-sealed film with micro-perforation to allow the proper amount of gas exchange. As a result of this technology, the Gourmet Crumble has a superior shelf-life.

“The film also serves as a great food safety feature, as no large particles can get in or out of the package, which is important as people become more cognizant of the security of their food,” added Chris. “Not only will the food safety aspect attract shoppers, but this product is great for at-home cooks looking for added convenience.”

Chris went on to explain why this product is different from any others available to buyers.

“This is one of the only fresh-diced mushroom products on the market. Other companies have tried without success because the products were not marketed as fresh, 100 percent mushrooms and nothing else,” Chris continued. “Because it is such a unique product to the market, we’ve worked with retailers to highlight the Gourmet Crumble and educate the consumer through both the label on the package and the shelf signage.”

While the Gourmet Crumble is still quite new to the market, Buona has already received positive feedback with product on the shelf at regional The Giant Company stores as well as additional small retailers.

“We are excited and grateful to have the Mushroom Gourmet Crumble included in the mushroom set at The Giant Company’s stores,” said President Gale Ferranto. “They are an innovative, forward-thinking partner that is always willing to showcase the next great product.”

Buona is looking to expand into other areas of the country, and I’d argue any retailer would be remiss to pass up on this product that is sure to make waves in the plant-based category and beyond.

As more fresh innovations hit the market, keep reading the latest reports from ANUK.

Buona Foods