Cooking spray Pam is capitalizing on the surging popularity of air fryers with its latest product. Conagra, the parent company of the Pam brand, has developed a new spray formula that withstands higher temperatures to prevent damage to an air fryer’s tray or basket. This spray can be applied directly to both the air fryer and uncooked foods, enhancing browning and crisping for items like wings, tenders, and fries. “Sales of air fryers have soared, but conventional cooking sprays aren’t always the ideal choice,” stated Audrey Ingersoll, a vice president at Conagra. The new Pam cooking spray boasts a smoke point of 450 degrees, which is higher than that of traditional cooking sprays. Conagra assures that the ingredients in Pam Air Fryer Spray are less likely to brown or smoke.
Recent data from analytics firm Circana reveals that approximately two-thirds of households now own at least one air fryer, a significant increase since 2021. Just two years ago, the air fryer ranked as the fourth most popular cooking appliance, following the stovetop, microwave, and oven. Interestingly, more homes currently have an air fryer than a coffee maker, as noted by Nestlé. Conagra’s involvement with air fryers extends beyond just Pam; the company has added air fryer preparation instructions and graphics to its food products and has created items specifically for the appliance, such as Birds Eye Cauliflower Wings, La Choy Orange Chicken, and Ultimate Plant-Based Chick’N Filets.
In a different sector, Hormel is seizing the opportunity presented by the rising trend of spices and seasonings with its latest launch. The company is introducing Chili Seasoning Mix Packets in three varieties: Original, Mild, and White Chicken Chili. These seasonings are crafted to enhance homemade chili recipes, as stated in a press release. This launch is a collaboration with C.H. Guenther & Son, a manufacturer known for a variety of packaged products, from gravies to biscuits. The seasoning packets are set to be available in select retail locations.
Hormel’s stronghold in the chili market dates back to 1935 when it introduced its canned beef, beans, tomatoes, and chili powder mix. According to Statista data, Hormel was the top-selling chili brand in the U.S. in 2020, outpacing competitors like Campbell’s and Wolf Brand Chili. Hormel’s chili frequently accompanies snacks such as chips and hot dogs at sporting events. In recent years, the brand has embraced this association with limited-time promotions leading up to the Super Bowl, including a chili cheese keg in 2022 and a chili cheese-flavored IPA the following year.
As home cooking has gained traction, makers of seasoning blends have seen benefits as consumers look to add flavor to their dishes. The spices and seasonings market was estimated to be valued at $21.6 billion last year, with a projected compound annual growth rate of 6.8% through 2030, according to Grand View Research.
Meanwhile, Amy’s Kitchen, known for its organic canned soups and frozen meals, is expanding its breakfast line with tofu egg scramble dishes. The company has replaced traditional eggs with its house-made tofu in these new frozen breakfast offerings. The lineup includes California Scramble, Mexican Scramble, and Tofu Scramble, as well as various wraps and burritos like the Ranchero Burrito, Scramble Wrap, and a Gluten-Free Tofu Scramble Wrap. “Our new frozen breakfast line provides convenience while delivering the homemade taste you’d expect from your own kitchen,” said Fred Scarpulla, chief culinary officer at Amy’s Kitchen, in a press release. “By creatively substituting our signature tofu for eggs, we’re thrilled to offer delicious morning favorites that are both satisfying and consistent with our commitment to quality, flavor, and nutrition without any junk.” The new breakfast options are aimed at families and individuals seeking wholesome, homemade meals made from scratch, and they are available at select grocery stores nationwide, including Albertson’s, Harris Teeter, Publix, Meijer, Target, and Whole Foods.
Additionally, for those looking for a nutritional boost, Twinlab Chewable Calcium Citrate is also gaining attention as a convenient supplement for maintaining bone health, complementing the trend towards healthier eating.