June 2, 2006

New meat products hit US market

US processors are developing new red meat and poultry products to remain competitive in an increasingly competitive market where the oversupply situation has clipped demand.

Processors launched 467 new red meat products last year but five months into the year into 2006, they have already launched 284 red meat products,according to DataMonitor's Productscan Online.

The new products that are out include new flavor options and branding as well as ready-to-cook, case-ready products, all-natural products and pre-sliced roasted chicken breast.

Eve though there were more red meat launches, poultry products seem to be more varied.

While meat producers compete mainly on price, poultry sellers focus more on branding, Tom Vierhile, director of Productscan Online, explained.

However, red meat processors are catching up as they introduce more value-added beef and pork products.

Increasing demand for organic or natural products are also fuelling product launches.