December 10/Lisle, Ill. -- The John Morrell Food Group, a subsidiary of Smithfield Foods, has introduced Armour and John Morrell 40% Lower Sodium Franks for foodservice operators.  Utilizing a patented, all-natural sodium replacer, the new franks promise the same flavor with 40% less sodium compared to regular franks.

"With a rising awareness of sodium intake, we are interested in providing restaurant operators and patrons lower-sodium alternatives to some of the best-selling items on the menu," said Chuck Gitkin, John Morrell Food Group vice president of marketing, innovation, and R&D. "We are using a breakthrough all-natural sodium alternative that allows for a one-to-one replacement of salt.  The new franks do not compromise the taste and tradition that are hallmarks of the Armour and John Morrell brands."

This provides a solution for foodservice operators who wish to address their patrons' desire for healthful yet flavorful products – especially K-12 schools, healthcare facilities, and colleges and universities. The new Lower Sodium Armour and John Morrell franks are CN labeled for school lunch menus.  Each 2oz. frank provides a 2oz. equivalent meat for child nutrition meal pattern requirements. The line includes all-beef formulations and beef/pork blends to match the flavor profiles preferred by adults and kids, respectively.