Frozen food distributor Central Foods has boosted its free-from range with the addition of two new savoury items.

Both products are gluten-free and suitable for vegans – helping foodservice operators to satisfy the increasing demand from diners with specific dietary requirements.

The announcement of the launch comes during National Vegetarian Week and Coeliac Awareness Week, which both run from 14^th to 20^th May.

“Demand for both vegan and gluten-free options has grown significantly in recent times, and the latest additions to the Central Foods range have been selected carefully to appeal to diners who are looking for either option, or both, as well as being attractive to diners generally,” said Gordon Lauder, MD of frozen food distributor Central Foods.

“Having pre-prepared frozen items to hand that are suitable for those looking for free-from options is extremely useful for caterers. It will ensure outlets avoid being caught out by unexpected demand and that they can fulfil customers’ expectations.”

The Menuserve Cauliflower and Lentil Dhal Bundt® with Spiced Mango Chutney and the Menuserve Cajun Spiced Sweet Potato Roulade with Vegan Cream Cheese, Red Pepper and Black Bean Salsa, are both centre-of-the-plate items, which give good plate coverage and height.

“They are really tasty and suitable for anyone looking for something a bit different when eating out, not just vegans and free-from diners,” said Gordon.

The products come in frozen individual portions, so are a consistent size and shape every time, but both have an attractive artisan appearance.  Cook the Menuserve Cauliflower and Lentil Dhal Bundt® with Spiced Mango Chutney in just 3.5 minutes in a combi microwave/oven, or the Menuserve Cajun Spiced Sweet Potato Roulade with Vegan Cream Cheese, Red Pepper and Black Bean Salsa in just 2.5 minutes.

“The statistics show that increasing numbers of people are opting for gluten-free and vegan diets and lifestyles, whether for health or other reasons, and we also know that flexitarianism is becoming more popular, with people cutting down on meat,” added Gordon.

“Market research company Kantar Worldpanel found that more than a quarter and almost a third of the evening meals consumed in the UK during January 2018 were vegetarian or vegan. It makes good sense for foodservice operators to serve items that will appeal to a wide range of diners, which is why we have launched these two new versatile products.”