When broadline foodservice distributor US Foods Holding Corp., introduced as many as 18 “Spring Scoop” products this March, it embraced the theme, “Do More with Less” and emphasized versatile items to help operator customers manage labor shortages and other operational challenges.

Speaking of doing more, US Foods’ R&D team members also consider new product enhancements that appeal restaurant consumer patrons. The company embraces a “Serve Good” program dedicated to responsibly sourced products. Included in this year’s Spring Scoop portfolio was a Hilltop Hearth Pub Grain Hamburger Bun made with a flour from brewers’ spent grains. The new bun debuted in March 2022 and is one of the first foodservice products certified by the Upcycled Food Association (UFA). The bun flour consists of brewers’ spent barley, wheat, and rye grains and officials say the resulting bun has a “traditional dense crumb texture with mild earthy and sour notes.”