Fresh Del Monte Produce has unveiled a new line of fresh and fresh-cut fruits and vegetables specifically designed to work in refrigerated vending machines in the US mid-Atlantic and south-east regions.
Dennis Christou, vice president of marketing for the Coral Gables, Fla.-based company, said the machines are a response to increasing consumer demand for healty snack options. Initial tests in Illinois and Florida were a success, according to a report in The Packer.
“Everywhere we had it, the reception has been extremely enthusiastic,” Mr Christou said in a press release. “Schools love it, offices love it.”
The line includes bananas, pineapples, grapes, apple slices, baby carrots, celery and tomatoes, with each items containing less than 120 calories each. Some options are also paired with light dips and prices range from US$1 to US$2.25.
Fresh Del Monte has developed a proprietary banana packaging to maintain color and slow ripening, according to the company news release. The packaging gives a total of five days of shelf-life when kept between 57 and 60 degrees.
The company recommends that the refrigerated products be replenished at least once a week, The Packer said.
Initially is available in the mid-Atlantic and southeast regions, Fresh Del Monte reportedly plans to increase availability at the beginning of the year.
The company tested the line in Illinois and south Florida at health clubs, schools, institutions and office facilities.
The vending machine line was unveiled at the National Automated Merchants Convention in Chicago on 23 September.
