Frozen vegetables have always been a convenience, and they are becoming even more so. In the U.S., the Green Giant Valley Fresh Steamers range of vegetables, from General Mills, has been extended with a new variety comprising of Roasted Red Potatoes, Green Beans and Rosemary Butter Sauce. The all-natural vegetables are low in fat and calories and can be microwaved in the bag in five minutes. The product retails in a 12oz bag and delivers 80 calories per serving.

Also available are the following varieties: low-fat Buttery Rice and Vegetables, comprising rice, carrots, green beans, red peppers and butter sauce; and Baby Sweet Peas, which are 100% natural, microwaveable and retail in a 12oz pack.

Information in this column is from the Global New Products Database, the premier source of global product intelligence, published by Mintel International Group; 351 W. Hubbard, 8th Floor; Chicago, IL 60610; call: 312-932-0600; fax: 312-932-0474; or e-mail mhollihan@mintel.com.pf