Category Analysis: Innovation in Charcuterie
Leaders in the charcuterie category are tightly focused on transparency, safety and sustainability and are helping consumers prepare for the upcoming holiday season which will include entertaining and demand for delicious charcuterie fixings without a lot of prep work. In response to consumers’ demand for ethically sourced, high-quality products, manufacturers in the space are expanding their offerings to include visually appealing, globally inspired and health-conscious options. These manufacturers are tasked with balancing traditional craftsmanship and heritage with progressive and fresh ideas and are up to the challenge with their premium, versatile snacking options that meet consumers’ high standards for authenticity, flavors and diverse cuisine.
This fall, Fiorucci is focused on elevating the snacking experience with the launch of Crafted Paninos—a new line of five indulgent yet naturally made pairings crafted with simple, wholesome ingredients and no artificial ingredients.
“Designed for today’s discriminating consumer, these premium snacks deliver a unique experience of bold flavor and convenience in every bite,” said Russ Jimenez, Director of Brand Marketing for Fiorucci. “These high-protein, ready-to-enjoy snacks feature authentically prepared Italian meats wrapped around expertly blended cheeses for a naturally bold flavor experience, rooted in the brand’s 175-year legacy of craftsmanship.”
“Crafted Paninos are a direct reflection of our Italian heritage and our passion for creating elevated, convenient foods that bring people together,” said Russ Jimenez, Director of Brand Marketing for Fiorucci. “Whether you’re entertaining guests or looking for a flavorful, better-for-you snack, these Paninos deliver rich, distinctive taste, natural ingredients and effortless presentation—perfect for any occasion.”
In early October, Aussie Select, the first fully cooked lamb charcuterie in the US, debuted two all-natural offerings, Lamb Pastrami and Lamb Prime Rib, available at the deli counter within Wegmans Food Markets. Sliced fresh at the deli, Aussie Select is offering consumers lamb in a sliceable, sandwich-ready and board-ready format. Void of added nitrates and nitrites, Aussie Select’s latest offering bring premium quality and global inspiration to the everyday deli experience and are sourced from pasture-raised Australian lamb.
“This launch is incredibly special for us,” said Jaclyn Oyola, CEO of World Select Cuts, the company behind Aussie Select in a press release. “When I was a student at Cornell University, Wegmans was my grocery store. To now see Aussie Select featured at their deli counter is a dream realized and a true full-circle moment.”
“Aussie Select products bring a depth of flavor that instantly elevates sandwiches, wraps and boards,” said Michael Slavin, Corporate Chef for Aussie Select in a press release. “What excites me about the line is how approachable it makes lamb for everyday use. Sliced thin, it’s as easy to add to a breakfast wrap as it is to serve alongside cheeses and spreads on a charcuterie board.”
Aussie Select inspires hosts to come up with new possibilities for entertaining, grazing and simple meals. For charcuterie lovers seeking a non-pork alternative, Aussie Select delivers a premium option that feels adventurous yet approachable. Its lamb pastrami features a bold twist on a classic, and as for the lamb prime rib, it promises a rich and savory texture.
Earlier this year, MeatCrafters, a leader in hand-crafted charcuterie, salamis, sausages and bacon, launched a line of sliced charcuterie and single salamis, featuring innovative, easy-to-open packaging. This new line is available in an eye-catching assortment of colorful packaging that highlights the quality and artisanal craftsmanship of MeatCrafters offerings. With the growing demand for convenient and flavorful snacking and dining options, MeatCrafters has taken significant steps to enhance the consumer experience, according to company officials. The new, easy-to-open packaging ensures that customers can enjoy their favorite salami and charcuterie products without the frustration of traditional packaging methods.
“Our new packaging and product line reflects our commitment to quality and convenience,” said Debra Moser, President of MeatCrafters in a press release. “We believe that enjoying gourmet charcuterie should be an effortless experience, and we are excited to provide our customers with a product that is as delightful to open as it is to eat.”
The vibrant packaging draws shoppers in but also calls attention to the high quality product attributes that consumers have come to expect from MeatCrafters.
Fiorucci is committed to making it easier for a broader audience to enjoy premium charcuterie on a daily basis.
“Fiorucci makes it easy by offering our delicious products in many different and convenient package types,” Jimenez said. “From 2-piece Paninos for snacking on the go, to larger 21-piece party packs for game day or larger gatherings. Plus, we offer many variations of sliced products from three meat variety packs to 1-lb sliced items—many of which are available for quick delivery with Amazon Prime.”
Retailers can partner more closely with Fiorucci to leverage the offering in terms of attracting a higher dollar value basket customer by simply reaching out. “We love partnering with retailers to share insight about the charcuterie category,” Jimenez said. “We’re passionate about meeting consumers when and where they have a need for our products and since we produce all of our own products in house we are able to make them available in many different formats from sliced and diced to Paninos.”
On the better for you side of things, Fiorucci’s charcuterie offering appeals to consumers looking for a gourmet, but still satisfying snacking opportunity. “We offer a robust portfolio of items that are 100 percent natural, meaning the meats are never treated with antibiotics, and contain to artificial ingredients, nitrates or nitrates,” Jimenez said. “Plus all our cheeses are r-BST hormone free. This includes our Crafted Panino line, various sliced items and our 21 piece 100 percent natural party pack.”
