Adding value, subtracting questions

Value-added produce and packaged salads saw “robust” growth in the produce section, F.M.I. said, and they are positioned for further success. To win shoppers with these products, retailers may play up the portability, convenience and ease of such offerings while quieting questions about such attributes as freshness and shelf life.

“Value-added produce and packaged salads are ideally positioned for further growth through increasing household penetration and purchase frequency — provided shoppers can overcome the price differential and their perceived drawbacks, including short shelf life and questions about quality, freshness and safety,” F.M.I. said.