Case-ready meats are primal cuts of protein that are portioned, sliced and packaged into retail-ready trays of steaks, roasts, chops, cutlets, ground meat and more. This refrigerated segment requires no further processing at the store-level—where many outlets are experiencing labor challenges behind the meat counter—and continues to see substantial year-over-year growth, since the product fits well into time-crunched consumer meal times.
“Research continues to show that convenience is paramount for consumers today. We have seen increases in trial of meal kits, seasoned and marinated meats, and additional value-add innovation products, all of which come from our case-ready plants,” says Nate Hodne, SVP fresh meats, value add & case ready, Tyson Foods. “The category is showing no signs of slowing down, and we believe case-ready products are a key element in the future of fresh meats.”