June 11/Bannockburn, Ill./PRNewswire -- Barilla announced the nationwide availability of its new line of microwaveable meals -- single servings of pasta and sauce ready to eat after 60 seconds in the microwave.

The shelf-stable Barilla microwaveable meals are available in five varieties, including Mezze Penne with Traditional Marinara Sauce, Mezze Penne with Tomato & Basil Sauce, Mezze Penne with Spicy Marinara Sauce and in two whole grain varieties - Whole Grain Fusilli with Vegetable Marinara Sauce and Whole Grain Mezze Penne with Tomato & Basil Sauce.

"Developed with busy professionals in mind, Barilla microwaveable meals are shelf stable so you can throw them into your bag on your way out the door, or keep a supply in your desk drawer," says Giannella Alvarez, president of Barilla America. "We wanted to reinvent shelf-stable meals with product superiority and quality ingredients that are all natural and have no preservatives.  This way, a delicious and nutritious meal is conveniently available anytime and anywhere."

Barilla microwaveable meals are made with 100% natural ingredients and no preservatives and provide between 10g and 11g of protein. They are an excellent source of fiber, and the two whole grain varieties also provide a good source of iron.

"Barilla's microwaveable meals provide the healthy nutrition people are looking for, all with 320 calories or less," says Anna Rosales, nutrition manager for Barilla America.

Barilla microwaveable meals are $3.29 per 9oz package.

 From the June 12, 2012, Prepared Foods’ Product of the Day