Global flavors heat up frozen aisleGlobal flavors heat up frozen aisle

Filipino Pancit with spiced chicken, Indian-spiced chickpeas over cumin-scented basmati rice, ricotta-stuffed shells in marinara. No, these aren't items on restaurant menus, new frozen meals are stepping up their offerings by going global. Rather than the expected chicken pot pie or Swedish meatballs, manufacturers realize that to draw consumer attention it's all about providing meals that emphasize flavors that aren't easily found elsewhere. To address an unhealthy halo of high sodium content and overly processed ingredients, brands are also promoting transparency with Non-GMO Project Verification, USDA organic certification and even Certified Halal labels.

5 new products to stock

Helen's Kitchen Korean Noodle Bowl
There's no need to worry about MSG or artificial ingredients in this tasty fusion of edamame, red bell peppers, carrots and rice noodles. Made using organic ingredients and flavored with wheat-free tamari, ginger and crushed red pepper, this Asian-inspired dish is naturally vegan, gluten-free and free from GMO's. SRP: $3.99

Lyfe Kitchen Chicken Chili Verde
Roasted, antibiotic-free white meat chicken heads south of the border in a spicy tomatillo and green chile sauce. Cotija topped black beans and polenta peppered with pepita (pumpkin) seeds round out the gourmet dish which cooks up beautifully in a steamed paper pouch that eaters plate themselves.  SRP: $5.99

Saffron Road Chana Saag
Tender chickpeas meet creamy, spiced spinach in this Indian classic. Served over a bed of cumin rice, the vegetarian meal is a great source of fiber (8 grams) and Vitamin A. It's also certified gluten free, Halal and Non-GMO Project Verified.  SRP:

Caesar's Gluten Free Stuffed Shells
It's hard enough to find a gluten-free noodle, that's actually worth eating. Now a gluten-free frozen pasta dish? Somehow Caesar's has perfected their recipe. It's hard to believe these stuffed shells use rice noodles. Maybe that's because they're perfectly accompanied by creamy ricotta and a rich marinara sauce. SRP: $4.99-$5.99

Kusina Vegetable Pancit
New to Filipino cuisine? Kusina makes it easy to fall in love with this traditional take on Pancit Bihon (rice noodles) which are tossed with spiced chicken, cabbage and carrots. Naturally low in fat with only 150 calories per serving, it's also gluten free. SRP: $5.49