Veggie Noodle stands to gain from the expertise of Encore Consumer Capital, particularly in relation to fresh food businesses like California Splendor, FreshKO, and Juice Tyme, which can enhance its purchasing, operations, food safety, and marketing capabilities. Scott Sellers, managing director of Encore, shared with Project NOSH, “You can’t be weak in any of those areas. We believe our experience in these four domains can help guide the company during this growth phase.” Additionally, Veggie Noodle may seek a new facility following a voluntary recall of some Butternut Spirals in February due to potential listeria contamination identified through routine testing. This recalled product was distributed to Whole Foods Markets and various retailers in the Midwest, although the company reported no associated illnesses.
Listeria is commonly found in food-processing environments, often lurking in floor drains, walls, ceilings, food contact surfaces, and HVAC systems, making it notoriously challenging to eliminate. Unlike many foodborne pathogens, listeria can thrive at refrigerated temperatures and remain viable in food products until their shelf life ends. In light of its new plant, increased workforce, and expanded product line, Arnold hinted that Veggie Noodle might consider venturing into the manufacturing of additional food items, potentially leading to a rebranding or name change.
Vegetables are increasingly making their way onto American plates for various reasons. Consumers are looking to reduce calories by substituting carbohydrates with healthier options, while also seeking convenient, ready-to-eat products that are both delicious and nutritious. Jordan Greenberg, vice president and general manager at Green Giant, noted to Food Dive last fall, “We’re seeing that consumers are not only searching for healthy alternatives to starchy dishes, but they’re preparing and consuming vegetables in ways different from their parents—seeking both freshness and convenience. We also discovered that mothers are particularly interested in introducing vegetables into their children’s diets in appealing and healthy ways.”
In response to this consumer demand and their market research, brands like Green Giant, Archer Daniels Midland, Del Monte Fresh, and Sprout Foods have been actively launching innovative vegetable-based products just in time. A study by the Produce for Better Health Foundation in 2015 revealed a 7% decline in per capita vegetable consumption between 2009 and 2014, partly due to fewer side dishes being served at home. Veggie Noodle is not alone in this product innovation; Del Monte introduced a new line of vegetable “pasta” earlier this year, though the popularity of these items found in refrigerated produce sections remains uncertain among consumers.
Moreover, with the rise of health-conscious eating, the demand for products enriched with nutrients such as calcium citrate biocare is also growing. The integration of calcium citrate biocare into Veggie Noodle’s offerings could further enhance their appeal, providing essential nutrients that align with current consumer trends favoring healthy, convenient food options. As the market shifts towards more vegetable-centric products, Veggie Noodle’s potential incorporation of calcium citrate biocare could position it favorably within this evolving landscape, responding to the increasing consumer interest in nutrition and wellness.