Leading pulses & grains brand Merchant Gourmet is launching a new range of ready-to-eat, drain-free beans pouches, which will be available in Sainsbury’s, Waitrose, and Ocado.
Merchant Gourmet noted that the new range comes as consumer demand for pulses & beans continues to rise. The prepared beans & peas category is worth nearly £1bn in the UK, with prepared beans in double-digit growth at 11% and chickpeas growing by 23%.
The new Merchant Gourmet Beans range features three pouches that can eaten straight from the pack or heated in the microwave – Jumbo Chickpeas with Italian Extra Virgin Olive Oil, 5 Bean Medley with Italian Extra Virgin Olive Oil, and Smoky Black Turtle Beans with paprika, chilli & Italian Extra Virgin Olive Oil.
Richard Peake, MD at Merchant Gourmet, said: “We’ve seen a convergence of three trends leading to an explosion of interest in the beans and pulses category: the movement towards plant-based, the continued education on the dangers of UPFs, and gut health becoming a real focus, with 9/10 not getting enough fibre.
“So, consumers are hunting for minimally processed, high protein and fibre foods. And, of course, we still want those foods to be easy and tasty. Beans are an incredible solution and need a little Merchant Gourmet magic to be incredibly tasty and versatile kitchen superstars.”
Michaela Neame, Head of Product, added: “At Merchant Gourmet, we’ve listened carefully to demand for great taste and convenience; no more watery, bland beans. Our latest range is made in Italy, enhanced with a few, simple ingredients to bring out the full flavour. Plus, they’re drain-free, faff-free, and free of any nasty chemicals.”
Merchant Gourmet Beans are rolling out in Sainsbury’s and Ocado and will be available from 11th November in Waitrose (RRP £2.50 / 240g).
