Mintel International, Chicago, Ill., under the umbrella heading "Microwaveable Food New Product Launches (featuring meat terms)", lists 804 new entries in this category alone since 2004. "Undoubtedly due to the proliferating choices in its Stouffer's and Lean Cuisine lines, Nestle USA tops the list of new-product manufacturers in this segment, having introduced a total of 40 items, while ConAgra takes the number two spot with 31. Midway down the top-10 list are rivals Wal-Mart and Target, each with 24. Still, the report goes on to say widespread consumer acceptance of microwave-only meat entrées might not materialize--mainly because of the expense of packaging.
Source: meatnews.com
