Culinary Catalysts 2018: Best Health & Wellness Item

As the trend for convenience grows, along with the demand for healthier options outside of fast food, California-based retailer Raley’s continues to expand its Ready-To-Go meal options (first launched in 2010) with new sizes, flavors and packaging. And now the company is being recognized for its Grab & Go Chicken, Farro & Quinoa with Red Enchilada Family Meal.

This delicious and nutritious meal — it’s part of Raley’s “Nutrient Dense” line — is available ready to heat and serve. Manager of Culinary Innovation Evelyn Millate has combined a flavorful mix of fresh and wholesome ingredients for this 48-ounce meal that serves a family of four for only $16.99. Farro, quinoa, black beans, chicken, fajita pepper  blend, red chile sauce, cotija cheese, green onions, pepitas and cilantro make for a tasty and healthy dinner entrée.

More Culinary Catalysts winners:
• Best Restaurant >>
• Best Meal Kit >>
• Best Signature Dish >>

The new and improved Ready-To-Go program includes 32 different meals, all made with fresh, premium ingredients that can be found in the fresh deli department in grab-and-go displays.

In addition to its Ready-to-Go meals, Raley’s has rolled out a line of more than a dozen chef-created meal kits under its own brand.

“Our customers are in for a real treat with Raley’s new Ready-To-Go meals,” said Keith Knopf, Raley’s president and chief operating officer. “We understand the importance of convenient, healthy food options at a value and believe our customers will enjoy the new meals, made with quality ingredients that taste great.”

Raley’s also tapped its recently launched labeling system for the product line. The Raley’s Shelf Guide is a one-of-a-kind shelf tag program that helps customers combat label confusion to find options that meet their personal dietary needs. In this case, Raley’s new Ready-to-Go meals will offer customers clear descriptions, including “Nutrient Dense,” “Calorie Conscious,” “Vegan” and “Vegetarian” directly on the package.

In addition to its Ready-to-Go meals, Raley’s has rolled out a line of more than a dozen chef-created meal kits under its own brand. The West Sacramento, Calif.-based retailer said its meal kit offering takes a different approach by providing customers affordable, on-demand dinner solutions in four ways: full kits, quick kits, side dishes and build-your-own kit components.

“We want to be the destination for our customers looking for a healthy, home-cooked meal,” said Chef Miliate, who developed the recipes for the Ready-To-Go meals and the meal kits. “Fresh kits are an affordable solution to dinner that customers can trust.”