Restaurant-inspired meals require no freezing or refrigeration

Nov. 26, 2008

Time-crunched working Americans are looking for healthful lunch solutions that won’t break the bank. Because these office workers are attached to their computers, half eat something less healthful that they would like, according to a recent Omnibus survey. Top reasons for their choices include convenience (57 percent), price (39 percent) and taste (35 percent).

Partnering with New York businesswoman Ivanka Trump to change the way people think about eating lunch at work, Omaha, Neb.-based ConAgra Foods introduces Healthy Choice Fresh Mixers, convenient, restaurant-inspired lunches that offer a solution to the lunchtime compromise.

Developed in response to the growing trend of office workers increasingly eating at their desks, these microwavable meal creations, which can be found in the pasta aisle, require no freezing or refrigeration and can be stored in a desk drawer or pantry – making them the perfect lunchtime companion for deskbound employees.

Tasty varieties include: Rotini & Zesty Marinara Sauce; Ziti & Meat Sauce; Southwestern Style Chicken (with rice); Sweet and Sour Chicken (with rice); Szechwan Beef with Asian Style Noodles and Sesame Teriyaki Chicken (with rice).

Healthy Choice Fresh Mixers are made from premium ingredients, such as extra virgin olive oil, wine reductions and fire-roasted vegetables. Meals containing pasta are made with Ultragrain flour, 100 percent whole wheat flour that combines the nutritional benefits of whole grains with the texture of traditional refined flour. Separating ingredients during the storage and preparation process is another unique step that makes these different than other microwavable meals.

“Healthy Choice Fresh Mixers are designed with a distinct cooker to separate the starch and the sauce, helping to maintain the flavor and texture of both,” says Jess Sweley, director of research and development. “Consumers prepare the rice or pasta fresh in the microwave, and mix it together with the sauce and meat to create a complete, healthful meal all in about five minutes.”

“I’m excited to be partnering with Healthy Choice Fresh Mixers because I know how difficult it can be to try to find a healthy lunch during a hectic day,” says Trump. “They are convenient, fresh-tasting and easy to store in my desk drawer so I never have to skip lunch.” Healthy Choice has introduced an engaging advertising and interactive online campaign for the line.

Filmmaker Nicholas Stoller, who directed Forgetting Sarah Marshall, has created a fresh way to think about eating lunch at work. A new web site features innovative, live interactions between a professional comedy improvisational cast and viewers. Being part of the fun while enjoying lunch provides an energizing lunch break and a welcome laugh in the middle of the day for office workers.

Suggested retail price is $3.49.