Collingtree, England-based frozen food distributor Central Foods has extended its free-from range with the launch of a vegan, gluten-free pumpkin cheesecake. It defrosts in just two hours in the fridge and has a defrosted shelf life of three days if maintained chilled.
“Adding savory flavors to sweet products is a popular trend in the foodservice sector, and with cheesecake remaining in the list of top ten desserts since at least 2008, according to BFFF/Horizons Menurama, caterers can be confident this new, on-trend variation will be a hit with customers,” said Central Foods Managing Director Gordon Lauder. “Our pumpkin cheesecake provides a superb dessert item to serve in any foodservice or hospitality outlet.”
Pre-portioned into 14 slices and already meeting Public Health England’s 2020 Sugar Guidelines, the product is made with rich and creamy vegan cream cheese blended with 15% pumpkin purée, spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg on a crunchy gluten-free biscuit base, all topped with a crown of dark muscovado sugar and biscuit crumb.
“The beauty of offering a gluten-free, vegan cheesecake is that it will appeal to all diners, not just those with dietary requirements, and will help to avoid menu proliferation,” said Lauder. “It also means that venues and establishments are less likely to be caught out by unexpected customer demands.”
Central Foods supplies more than 400 different lines to foodservice operators, ranging from vegetarian and meat products to bakery items, canapés, buffet products, desserts and puddings. It currently sells to more than 220 independent wholesalers, as well as larger national and regional wholesalers, and foodservice caterers.
