WASHINGTON, D.C. — An example of Tyson Foods' commitment to the advancement of child nutrition was featured today at the 2010 National Food Policy Conference, hosted by the Consumer Federation of America in cooperation with the Grocery Manufacturers Association.
Tyson(R) Wokin' Orange All-in-One Entree (Fully-Cooked Dark Meat Strips with Spicy Orange Sauce) was part of the meal served during a luncheon at the conference, which is focused this year on the issue of child nutrition and health.
The new chicken product, which was created for the National School Lunch Program, meets the government's nutritional guidelines for sodium, fat and protein. It is called an "all-in-one" product because it includes both the dark meat strips and the spicy orange sauce in the same box for customer convenience.
"Our ethnic-inspired, all-in-one product solution allows foodservice directors to meet the growing demand for authentic flavors, while at the same time delivering a solution that is operationally friendly and nutritionally sound," said Johnny Hughes, vice president and general manager of the Government Business Unit of Tyson Foods, Inc. "We take pride in developing and serving products that not only help foodservice directors meet strict nutritional guidelines and stay within budget, but also appeal to some of the most demanding consumers around — kids."
During product development, many of Tyson's school breakfast and lunch foods are tested by students as part of the company's Kid Tested, Kid Approved(TM) program.
"We have students taste and score new products to get their feedback," said Hughes. "This proven process allows us to offer kid-endorsed products to help increase average daily participation." An 80% or better approval rating during the testing is needed for the product to earn the Kid Tested, Kid Approved(TM) product seal.
"This product is also an example of our efforts to meet increased demand for bigger, bolder tastes," said Hughes. "Today's students are interested in a broader spectrum of flavors, especially ethnic creations with a bit of spice."
For more information about Tyson's K-12 school foodservice program and products, click on: www.TysonK12.com
Tyson Foods, Inc., founded in 1935 with headquarters in Springdale, Arkansas, is one of the world's largest processors and marketers of chicken, beef and pork, the second-largest food production company in the Fortune 500 and a member of the S&P 500. The company produces a wide variety of protein-based and prepared food products and is the recognized market leader in the retail and foodservice markets it serves. Tyson provides products and services to customers throughout the United States and more than 90 countries. The company has approximately 117,000 Team Members employed at more than 400 facilities and offices in the United States and around the world. Through its Core Values, Code of Conduct and Team Member Bill of Rights, Tyson strives to operate with integrity and trust and is committed to creating value for its shareholders, customers and Team Members. The company also strives to be faith-friendly, provide a safe work environment and serve as stewards of the animals, land and environment entrusted to it.
Source: Tyson Foods, Inc.