Patterson, New Jersey, USA-based Kontos Foods, Inc., a manufacturer and distributor of Greek and other Mediterranean-style frozen foods to retail and foodservice customers, anticipates continued growth in demand for ethnic flatbread and fillo dough products in 2014. The company, which has been in the flatbread business for more than 25 years, attributes the rising popularity of such cuisine to consumers keen on “creating interesting meals with flair.”
“Throughout 2013, we significantly expanded our business development activities by boosting marketing and public relations, increasing our global focus, and launching a social media effort. This is clearly bearing fruit,” said Steve Kontos, vice president of Kontos Foods. “In line with our initiatives, we are seeing a growing trend by consumers to try ethnic flatbreads, such as Pocket-Less Pita® and Naan, as well as fillo products that can be used to make appetizers, meals and desserts.”
Kontos Foods opened a new plant earlier this year to expand capacity for fillo dough and crepes. In line with its global expansion strategy, the company attended the Asian Seafood Expo in Hong Kong during September, showing Kataifi dough, and the Anuga fair in Germany during October, where its flatbreads were in high profile.
A strong seller at the moment is Kontos’ Greek Lifestyle Flatbread, which specially formulated to appeal to protein-seeking, carbohydrate-conscious consumers. Per serving, the 190-calorie product has 15 grams of protein, 21 grams of carbs, and only two grams of sugar.
“In 2014, consumers can look for more Greek lifestyle products from us – products that are delicious, while providing twice the protein and half the carbohydrates of traditional flatbreads,” said Warren Stoll, marketing director. “We are also looking to expand this ‘good-for-you’ segment by introducing unique ethnic products that offer the same benefits to consumers who are looking for new ways to enjoy bread.”
