Merchandisers can boost breakfast meat sales by offering wider varieties, positioning the proteins for all dining occasions.

While the traditional eggs and starches such as pancakes and waffles remain popular, more consumers are making meats key meal components as they seek options that are healthy, novel, tasty and convenient.

he Jimmy Dean brand has launched two new flavors in its Pancakes & Sausage on a Stick product portfolio.

Andy Hanacek, editor-in-chief of The National Provisioner, visited Hillshire Brands’ Chicago headquarters in November 2013 to speak with Jeff George, senior vice president of Research & Development, as well as Susan Zaripheh, Ph.D., director of Nutrition Research & Innovation, about a new study from Biofortis Clinical Research and the University of Missouri’s Department of Exercise Physiology and Nutrition (see the release on page 40).

Next year, on-the-go breakfast eaters will be able to ask for a waffle taco, A.M. Crunchwrap or Cinnabon delights at Taco Bell.