StarKist Press Release
Charlie® the Tuna is giving tuna lovers another reason to fall hook, line and sinker for the latest StarKist® innovation by introducing his most flavorful, sophisticated tuna yet. Charlie and StarKist Seafood, a division of Del Monte Foods (NYSE:DLM), today introduced nationwide new StarKist Gourmet Choice tuna. Available in StarKist’s easy-open can, Gourmet Choice features premium cuts of Yellowfin tuna in restaurant-inspired flavors, including Lemon Dill, and Roasted Garlic, as well as Premium Albacore varieties.
“New Gourmet Choice is a premium cut of tuna that is so delicious, yet convenient, that it can be enjoyed on its own at anytime,†said Lisa Henriksen, Vice President of Marketing at StarKist Seafood. “We are offering gourmet, restaurant-inspired flavors, including Lemon Dill and Roasted Garlic, as well as Premium Albacore varieties that will bring excitement, sophisticated taste and heart-healthy nourishment to the canned-food aisle this fall.â€
StarKist Gourmet Choice features the highest-quality Yellowfin and Albacore tuna packaged in an easy-open 5.5 ounce can. The new varieties include:
· Lemon Dill: Light-meat tuna marinated in lemon and fresh dill and infused with extra virgin olive oil.
· Roasted Garlic: Light-meat tuna marinated in roasted garlic cloves and infused with extra virgin olive oil.
· Premium Albacore varieties: Hand-selected white meat tuna served in water.
In addition to the restaurant flavors and mouth-watering taste, StarKist Gourmet Choice is the gold standard for the tuna category. The new products will feature gold labels to communicate its premium status on the store shelf – a departure from the brand’s traditional blue-colored packaging. StarKist also expects to reel in tuna fans by introducing the first regular-sized tuna can with a convenient EZ-Open lid, found exclusively on all StarKist Gourmet Choice varieties.
“Like all StarKist tuna products, the new Gourmet Choice products are excellent sources of Omega-3 fatty acids and muscle-building protein,†said Laura Molseed, Nutritionist for Del Monte Foods. “Del Monte Foods is committed to nourishing families and enriching lives. With our delicious flavors and EZ-Open can, StarKist Gourmet Choice is a convenient way for families to enjoy a delicious and nutritious meal, while spending quality family time around the table.â€
StarKist Gourmet Choice, an essential part of a heart-healthy diet, delivers the same health benefits associated with the complete line of StarKist products. StarKist tuna is an excellent low-fat source of protein and a natural source of the B Vitamins, Niacin and B-12, as well as Selenium and Omega-3 fatty acids. These nutrients are part of a healthy, balanced diet. Consider:
· Tuna fish provides an excellent source of lean protein; it is low in total fat and saturated fat.
· The B Vitamins, Niacin and B-12 found in tuna fish are essential to maintain energy levels and build red blood cells.
· Selenium, an essential mineral, acts as a powerful antioxidant, protecting cells from damage and promoting cell growth.
· EPA and DHA Omega-3 Fatty Acids found in tuna fish have been shown to reduce the risk of heart disease, macular degeneration and to promote brain and visual development in children.
The new Gourmet Choice product line reflects StarKist’s commitment to introducing tuna products that are delicious, healthy and convenient. Other recent StarKist tuna innovations include StarKist Tuna Fillets™ and StarKist Tuna Creations®, both packaged in StarKist’s Flavor-Fresh Pouch®. These varieties, along with other quality StarKist tuna products, packaged in both cans and pouches, provide more opportunities for consumers to enjoy tuna as part of a healthy diet. For recipe ideas and more information about StarKist products.
StarKist Seafood, a division of Del Monte Foods, is the leading producer of canned tuna and the category leader in innovation. StarKist represents a 65-year tradition of quality, innovation and consumer trust. StarKist was the first to introduce the revolutionary Flavor Fresh Pouch®, as well as a dolphin-safe policy.
Source: StarKist Press Release